Why the US is an Ideal Destination to Study and Pursue a Career in Media, Art, and Design
The United States has long been a beacon for creativity and innovation, making it an ideal destination for individuals seeking to pursue a career in media, art, and design. With a diverse cultural landscape, cutting-edge technology, and world-renowned institutions—such as Woodbury University in Los Angeles, CA—the US offers a unique and enriching environment for students looking to explore and excel in these creative fields.
The US boasts a vast and diverse range of educational institutions, from prestigious universities to specialized art schools and community colleges. This diversity ensures that aspiring artists and designers have access to a wide array of programs tailored to their interests and career goals. Whether you’re interested in filmmaking, animation, architecture, graphic design, fashion design, game design, or any other creative discipline, you’re likely to find a program that suits your needs.
Studying in the US allows students to learn from some of the most accomplished and influential figures in the creative industries. Professors and instructors have extensive real-world experience, bringing invaluable insights and connections to the classroom. These connections can open doors to internships, mentorships, and future job opportunities. US institutions prioritize providing students with cutting-edge resources and facilities. This includes well-equipped studios, modern digital labs, and access to the latest technology and software tools. Having access to such resources enables students to hone their skills and produce high-quality work that meets industry standards.
The US is a melting pot of cultures and artistic influences, making it a vibrant and inspiring place to study media, art, and design. Exposure to diverse perspectives and styles can enrich your creative vision and help you develop a unique voice in your chosen field. Major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago are epicenters of the arts, offering countless galleries, theaters, and museums for students to explore. In addition, the US provides an exceptional environment for building a professional network. Many design schools have strong connections with industry leaders and organizations, offering students opportunities to attend events, exhibitions, and conferences. These networking opportunities can be instrumental in launching a successful career in media, art, or design.
The US job market for media, art, and design graduates is robust and continually evolving. The country’s thriving creative industries offer numerous internship and job opportunities, and many US institutions actively assist students in securing these positions. The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows international students to work in their field for up to 12 months after graduation, providing valuable post-study work experience. US universities encourage interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to combine their creative pursuits with other fields of interest. This flexibility can lead to innovative and unique career paths. For example, a Woodbury University student studying both filmmaking and business can explore opportunities in the entertainment industry, while a fashion designer with a passion for sports may engage in athletic shoe design, both active professions in the Greater Los Angeles area.
Studying abroad is not just about education; it’s also a transformative personal experience. Living in the US exposes students to different cultures, ideas, and perspectives, fostering personal growth and global awareness. While pursuing higher education in the US can be expensive, there are various scholarships and financial aid options available to international students. Many universities offer merit-based scholarships, and there are also external scholarships and grants for specific fields within media, art, and design.
In the competitive world of media, architecture, and design, a strong portfolio is essential. Studying in the US allows students to work on diverse projects, collaborate with peers from around the world, and gain the practical experience needed to build an impressive portfolio that can help them stand out in their chosen field. In conclusion, studying in the United States offers a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth. With its diverse educational landscape, access to industry experts, state-of-the-art facilities, and vibrant creative communities, the US provides an ideal environment for creative professionals to flourish and make their mark on the world.
About the author
With a career spanning 30 years as an arts educator, designer, and author, JEFF BELLANTONI is Dean of the School of Media : Culture : Design at Woodbury University in Burbank, CA.
Jeff held prior appointments as Dean of the College of Visual & Performing Arts at Winthrop University, and Vice-President for Academic Affairs at Ringling College of Art and Design. From 2008-2014, he was Chair of the nationally-ranked Graduate Communications Design Department at Pratt Institute in New York. Jeff earned an MFA in Visual Communications/Design from VCU School of the Arts, and a BFA from University of Tennessee.
Jeff is co-author and designer of several internationally published titles on Typography and Media – including the best-selling titles Type in Motion and Moving Type, Designing for Time and Space – and he has written on graphic design for various design publications. Jeff’s design work has been recognized by Print magazine, the AIGA (50 Books/50 Covers), and Connecticut Art Director’s Club, and he has presented at conferences, events and educational institutions around the world.