Columbia College Chicago is has a full range of majors and minors at both the BFA and BA/BS level to study everything from Animation to Film to Sound Design to Writing for Television, all while you are immersed in Chicago’s artistic community.

Are you hoping to apply to film school? There are some great programs at USC School of Cinematic Arts, Chapman Dodge College, Emerson College, and UCLA. There are also programs at traditional art conservatories such as Rhode Island School of Design, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and Pratt. Starting early in high school is key to being prepared to submit great applications.

We’re always surprised when we talk to people to hear their perspective on careers in the arts. I always start out by asking everyone to look around them. Wherever you are I can guarantee that many artists contributed to creating everything you see, hear and touch.

Creatives are multi-talented and often think outside the box. They’re highly sought after and greatly valued in the job market but often they have to make their own jobs.