What images should I include in my application?
The application materials give us a sense of you as an artist. In your application you should include images that you feel best represent your artwork. Technical ability and diversity of media may or may not be considered more important than the creative and artistic effort evident in your portfolio. Your portfolio says a great deal about you—it reflects your personality and displays your special talents and this is what we are interested in.

Are there scholarships?
Yes. All applicants to the Pre-College Summer Studio Program are eligible to apply for scholarships. A limited number of need- and merit-based, partial and full tuition scholarships are available. Please note: scholarship applications will not be considered unless accompanied by all required application materials: essay, recommendation, application fee, and images. In order to be considered for a scholarship all materials must be received by April 2, 2008. Click here to download a scholarship application.

What are some other scholarship resources? (in addition to those offered by SMFA)
Start by talking to your high school art teacher, guidance counselor, or mentor. These knowledgeable people will be your best resource for scholarship ideas and advice. The Internet is also full of resources for students seeking scholarships for college programs, summer opportunities, and other educational endeavors. Some Web sites to start your search: www.fastweb.com and http://www.artschools.com/articles/scholarships/. Students in the Boston metro area may also visit the Higher Education Information Center (HEIC) at the Boston Public Library, Copley Branch, which provides resources, counseling, and advocacy for individuals interested in researching scholarships, fellowships, and other aid from private sources: www.heic.org. Other avenues for art scholarships to consider: community and civic groups; professional organizations; employers (local businesses and national chains); charitable foundations; religious organizations; arts festivals and competitions; and local schools, colleges, and universities.

Will most students be residential or commuter? 
The majority of students who attend the Pre-College Summer Studio Program are residential. Students requesting housing are encouraged to submit applications before April 2, 2008. Preference is given to applications received prior to this date.

Can commuter students participate in weekend/evening activities?
Commuter students are welcome to participate in all evening and weekend activities.

Is this program appropriate for students who have already applied to the Museum School for full-time admissions for Fall ’08?
Yes. Students attending this program who have applied to the undergraduate program will have a unique opportunity to familiarize themselves with the school, its facilities, and to the city of Boston. In many ways this program will provide students with a window into the life of an undergraduate SMFA student.

Will this program help me gain admission into a full-time SMFA program?
Participation in the Pre-College Summer Studio Program will not formally increase a student’s chance to be admitted to the SMFA’s undergraduate program. However, taking part in this type of program will demonstrate a deep commitment to the arts and will certainly help to develop each student’s artwork; it is this dedication and sophistication that the admissions office looks for when reviewing applications.

Would it be okay if a student has to miss one or more days of the program?
Arrangements must be made ahead of time if a student needs to take time away from the program. Because the classes are cumulative, however, students are discouraged from missing multiple class periods.

How many students are in the program?
Approximately 60 students will participate in this year’s Pre-College Summer Studio Program. This encourages our unusually low student-to-faculty ratio (6:1), which ensures that you will get the attention you need as you evolve your artwork. The SMFA is a small college and in many ways the Summer Studio echoes the undergraduate experience.

Do I take all the classes or do I choose?
Students take each of the offered classes, giving you the opportunity to experiment with new media while advancing your technical skills in familiar media. This breadth will also give you the chance to experience the intersection of disciplines as part of the art-making process.

What are some examples of out-of-class activities?
Students will have an opportunity to explore Boston and its art scene in the evenings, on weekends, and even during class. You will participate in off-site, interactive tours at several area museums, galleries, and alternative art spaces. In addition, possible outings may include: exploring Boston’s Newbury Street shopping district, boating on the Charles River, picnicking at Franklin Park, drawing excursions to the renowned Arnold Arboretum, and visiting the Boston Harbor Islands.

What type of security/safety is in place?
There are many supports in place to ensure the safety of all participants. Faculty, Teaching Assistants, Graduate Mentors, Residential Assistants, Administrative staff, and Public Safety personnel will be working together to make sure that all students are accounted for at all times. The dormitory-style housing combines the freedom and privacy of apartment living with the safety and support of a residence hall. The facility is located one block from the SMFA and offers day-to-day living conveniences such as: 24-hour security, full-time residence life staff, laundry facilities, communal studio spaces, outdoor courtyards, and a smoke-free living environment. There is a guard stationed at the front desk 24 hours a day. Students need a security swipe card to enter the front door of the building AND to access the elevator. Students are also required to sign in and out of a log book located at the guard's desk.

More questions? Contact us.
If you have additional questions, please contact:

The Continuing Education Office 
    Phone: 617-369-3644
    E-mail: coned@smfa.edu

Elena Belle White
    Pre-College Program Coordinator
    Phone: 617-369-3636
    E-mail: ewhite@smfa.edu

Debra Samdperil
    Director, Continuing Education & Artist's Resource Center
    Phone: 617-369-3643
    E-mail: dsamdperil@smfa.edu

We will do our best to answer your questions promptly.