[Marucha]

I think schools are slowly becoming more and more of a for-profit business versus an 'institution', at least that is more the case in the U.S. That doesn't mean that there isn't any good programs or that it wouldn't be for you. However, you have to weigh the method of this approach with your current situation, your future plans, and what you need to do to become a better artist...

I don't think most schools can teach you good character, solid skills, and what it means to succeed in the real world. These days, you are put in a program and if you're lucky, you'll find your way into a class with a teacher who can provide you with the extra stuff you need for success. Sure, school will nurture and even encourage those things I mentioned, but you will have to become self-taught at some point anyway.

School is more about getting the tools to become successful... you getting there is going to be more about you putting in the effort and doing the rest to master the tools and build a portfolio to present yourself. 4 years is just not nearly enough to truly flourish in some fields. Hopefully you get your foot in the door somewhere and the education process can continue that way... but technically, the education process should continue for as long as you are an artist.

That said, there is no rule that says you need schooling. I went for 2 years in a program and have decided not to bother with 4. I feel like I've had enough 'nurturing' and I need to do more 'living'. I plan to put the money into traveling and finishing my fluency in a foreign language. I'm building my life around being an artist one day at a time in the process. I'm already married and we are planning a big move, so I've already decided how my life will look like. So I'm not distracted by what 'should be', I am making firm plans, completing my short term goals and focusing on the long term.

'Should' and 'are' are two different things anyway. For me, this is a lifelong journey and I'll go where it takes me...