:: International Students Speak Up

Student-to-Student Advice!

Hear what international students have to say about the Art Institute and living in Boston:

Daisuke Ushiyama

Country: Japan
Age: 27
Program: Design diploma, 3rd year
Undergraduate degree in ocean physics

Advice: "I looked into many art schools before choosing AIB. Japanese students should travel and expand their horizons...go beyond the limitation of language skills. Going to art school in the US is an eye opener.

I've learned a lot here, especially about art history and typography. My typography professor, Jim Hood, is phenomenal. It's been excellent training. My vision for art has completely changed from when I arrived here.

The good thing about being an international student at AIB is you have personal connections to students and faculty. I see the same people often. Also, Boston draws so many people--it's very international, and you are close to New York City. There are so many things to do: theatre, clubs, gallery shows. Boston is a multi-cultural city--you can refine your sense of art by talking to people from other cultures. There are also many competitions and exhibitions to enter--you really can propel your career."

Marvio Costas dos Santos

Country: Brazil
Age: 22
Program: Illustration/Animation

Advice: "Thinking of art school? Go! It's a great experience. The experience of an art school is greater than the school itself--it's an extension of your mind. I think this school, particularly with the instructors and support groups and the friendship you find adds to the whole experience of becoming an artist.

I had little technical training before I arrived. Now in my third year I've developed the skills that are very important for art. There is the realization that I'm at a professional level now. Before I started school I would never think that I would possess this level of expertise.

I chose AIB because the school is small, the teachers really know you. The teachers are working professionals and really know their field so the assignments are realistic. I'm a computer animator now interning at TV Brazil USA as Graphic Department head. I'm doing graphic design, illustration, and animation for TV a station--creating flying logos and intros.

Another thing is being in Boston. Boston is the most perfect thing for a student. It is a city of students. The whole environment of being here is great."

Ruth Boerger

Country: Germany
Age: 24
Program:: Design, Senior
Undergraduate degree in mass communication/film

"AIB is the best thing I've ever done. I started thinking about what it means to be an artist...I've learned so much. I'm constantly looking at new things personally and intellectually, and that definitely influences the way you look at art and design. I came here to study visual arts to become to an art director, but I discovered a love of design, and now I want to be a graphic designer.

I enrolled here because AIB people were so friendly. They knew who I was. The instructors are so enthusiastic you get drawn in and want to do whatever they're teaching. I'm a Peer Advisor, and that has really added to my experience.

You won't get lost like at a big school you're not a number. If students need special attention because of the language, they get the extra attention they need.

I'm excited about doing my internship this summer. Instructors help you choose what internship will suit you. They find the companies that will benefit my career and are geared to my needs. They know you and are interested in your future."

Sang Mi Chun

Country: Korea
Age: 22
Sophomore

"AIB is an excellent school for design. The instructors prepare us for the professional world rather than just 'teach us.' They use specific examples as they would do on their own professional projects. The critiques really develop your professional skills preparing you to feel you can succeed as a designer.

The students are very nice, very friendly, very helpful.

Boston is an exciting place. I enjoy walking around the city, going to the music clubs, the Boston symphony there are so many things for a student to do."

Sasha Pancholi

Country: United Arab Emirates
Junior

"As an international student I found my transition to college really smooth with all the help from the AIB staff. I had a peer advisor, a faculty advisor, and an international student counselor who were there to answer my questions.

Right now, as a junior, if I think back to what I've actually gotten out of this experience I have to admit the first big thing on my list is 'a fulfilling education.' The more I ask the more I get and it still feels like I've only scratched the surface of my field. The second most satisfying thing has been a comfortable environment. Its difficult enough to make the transition to a new country and even harder to start your first college experience, but I got through it very well because of the friendly staff and students here.

Now, I am full of the confidence that I lacked when I first got here and part of that has come from growing as a design student and of course getting the experience I need for the real world here at AIB."

Yun-Jang Huang

Country: Taiwan
Age: 22
Program: Illustration/Animation, Junior

"At AIB everyone is studying art. Having transferred from a large university, I like being in a small school. There are a lot of universities around here. You can concentrate on your art work here.

The professors really want you to interact, and they are very responsive to international students. They understand our special needs. The courses offer a lot of flexibility you can focus on your interests. I came to the U.S. to study animation, and to experience American culture. I enjoy being in Boston. The city is safe and I can walk everywhere."

Hear what alums have to say about their experiences at The Art Institute of Boston: http://www.lesley.edu/aib/studentlife/alumni.html.