September 18, 2024 Image What surprised you the most about the Pre-College Summer Session?The most surprising aspect of PCSS for me was the amount of activities offered and work produced. There was a printmaking activity, multiple field trips, and plenty of afternoon activities that made the program so special. I was shocked with everything I came back with, and it made the experience unforgettable.What aspect of the program had the biggest impact on you?The on-campus housing truly made the program so special for me. It was my first time at a sleep-away camp and it was so impactful. It helped me with my independence and helped to make closer friendships. How has your artistic practice changed from being a part of the program?I learned plenty of new techniques from this program that have advanced my practice. My drawing class gave me new ways to draw, which in turn helped my paintings. I learned new mediums/materials, ways to mix paint, and ways to make colors, to name a few. In painting, I used a material called retarder for the first time which greatly helped with my paint mixing process. I had to purchase my own for home because it was so good. I left the program a better artist with new tricks up my sleeve. What was your favorite experience outside of the classroom?The field trips were definitely my favorite out-of-classroom experiences. The museums, especially the MIA, were absolutely breathtaking. Minehaha Falls has such beautiful scenery. Not only were these great fun for me, they helped create strong memories with my new friends. And I got to take awesome photos! Aside from field trips, going off campus with my friends, to grab a coffee or find some new clothes, made this whole experience feel so monumental for me as an individual considering college.What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about coming to the Pre-College Summer Session at MCAD?My advice for incoming PCSS students at MCAD is this: have fun and work hard. While this program is exciting, it is tough. There is a lot of work, and if you put in the effort you with leave with incredible work. Stay in the studio as long as you can and make sure you keep up with the workload. But make sure to enjoy what you do, make it fun for yourself. There are so many opportunities for fun as well, so balance is key. Make memories in and outside of the classroom.