The Academy of Art University

It costs a lot to go here. be ready for that. It's a good school and I don't regret going here. I do think that the student populations are not taught to work together as much as they should. More of a focus and expectation on collaboration should be fostered. I had a hard time finding people who were serious when I attended. I actually hired experienced crew for my projects because i got tired of the run around. The school also seems to foster arrogance and ego in the student body. It's left unchecked and everyone thinks they are the next Tarantino. Post AAU -I have tried very hard to use AAU graduates here in LA in my film projects with no success. I have been burned, let down and lied to by all of them. I have used many, but will no longer employ any AAU students EVER. In the end they are just too arrogant and egotistical. I have better success using USC/UCLA graduates. I also think the Alumni department is snooty and they just don't seem to care. I think this school fosters a lot of hype and pipe dreams at times. They won't help you get a job after you graduate. Not that I expected them to, but many others over the years have cried to me about it.

3rd Year Male -- Class 2007

Surrounding City: A+, Faculty Accessibility: B-

You have the feeling there are things that clearly could be improved in the school as well as the program but the people in charge avoid taking responsibility or don't care about it.

4th Year Male -- Class 2014

Surrounding City: A, Campus Aesthetics: C-

I am only going to speak for the major Industrial Design. If your going into this program be prepared to go threw heavy work loads, a few sleepless nights, and more work than most majors here. Professors here are very "self-absorbed" and expect your best work. Teaching from experience and a real world point of view, so it may seem harsh sometimes when they crit your work, but it's only for your best so don't be intimidated. Of course there will be time to go out and have fun but you'll learn soon that most of your time will go to school work. Money wise, its way more expensive than most Cal state and UC schools but for an art/design college, its the least expensive. I believe college is what you make of it and as for the academy, its worth it if you put yourself into it.

1st Year Male -- Class 2015

Useful Schoolwork: A+, Extracurricular Activities: C