Pre-College Student Profile: Sam Eiken

What surprised you the most about the Pre-College Summer Session?

Going into the program I wasn’t sure how I’d handle staying somewhere unfamiliar for two weeks, along with taking challenging classes. I’d never done something like this before, but there was a good environment and everyone else’s attitudes and dedication really helped me feel comfortable.

What aspect of the program has had the biggest impact on you?

Being able to work with the technology that was available with people who were knowledgeable in using it definitely had a big impact on me. I knew that I was interested in animation, but I had little experience creating it, especially with the programs and technology that I’d use in art school or an animation job. This program gave me more experience and helped me solidify that this is what I’m interested in.

How has your artistic practice changed from being a part of the program?

The biggest change in my art after Pre-College Summer Session is that I’m thinking more about what I want to accomplish with my art rather than creating whatever I feel like in the moment. Doing a bigger project like my animation was a step outside my comfort zone and caused me to think more about the sort of artist I’d like to be in the future.

What was your favorite experience, outside of the classroom?

My favorite experience was definitely walking to Eat Street to get boba tea. MCAD is in a pretty cool area, and it was nice to get to experience it with cool people.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about coming to Pre-College Summer Session?

I’d say that the most important thing to have coming into the program is motivation and a direction; Pre-College Summer Session is challenging, but knowing why you’re there and having passion for the work you do makes it worth it. I came into the program not sure if art school was what I wanted to do, and was looking to get a feel for the environment. Knowing what I wanted to get out of the program helped with the stress of doing the program.