When it comes to college, preparation seems endless. With so many moving parts, it can be difficult knowing where to begin to ensure you’re off to a great start. Luckily, we’ve prepared a shortlist just for you! We asked our Academy Orientation Leaders to share some helpful insight on what they wish they’d known when first starting out at Academy of Art University.

1. Save yourself some grief and get as familiar as you can with the bus and shuttle systems beforehand!

I wish I knew…

• “I wish I knew bus systems well enough before getting on the wrong bus and getting off at the wrong stop.” – Victor Pothikan (School of Animation & Visual Effects)
• “How to go to places and look around SF.” – Vishali Sitharthan (School of Fashion)
• “I wish I knew about the shuttles (I didn’t at that point).” – Lorena Juarez (School of Photography)

2. It is OK to ask for help! There is always someone ready and available to assist.

I wish I knew…

• “…that ARC existed other than just workshops for specific classes (especially Foundation classes because I can’t draw to save my life).” – Sarah Tran (School of Animation & Visual Effects)
• “…all of the resources that Academy of Art University provides to students for academic help, financial support and even moral and mental support for a freshman coming to a new city.” – Unique Cooper (School of Motion Pictures & Television)
• “…about ARC. I was told about it at Jump Start but immediately forgot after the semester started and was only reminded the latter half of the semester. I wish I used them far earlier.” – Daneal Jackson (School of Visual Development)
• “…info about the other orientation events for students.” – Lakshh Gontla (School of Graphic Design)

3. Don’t feel discouraged about what you can do. You’re here to learn and grow, so don’t let self-doubt hold you back. 

I wish I knew…

• “… (not to) compare where you are artistically / stylistically to your peers that first day. It’s tempting, but it’s not going to help. The only thing it’ll accomplish is make you feel bad about your work & yourself. Progress WILL happen; be patient. After 14+ weeks, you’ll be amazed at how much you’ve grown.” – Mica England (School of Photography)

4. Explore the area and get a feel for what’s around.

I wish I knew…·

• “Where I can buy a quilt and bedspread!” – Joe Zhou (School of Photography)·
• “…what food chain and grocery store is near my place.” – Vishali Sitharthan (School of Fashion)

Now you know what everyone else wished they knew before starting school! Go you! Remember: You got this and enjoy the journey! 🙂