***This review is intended for those considering Parsons The New School for Design for their…read moreundergraduate studies.*** 1. The TL;DR version for those who have already made the decision to go: - Do shop designer sample sales to look just as chic as the daughters of the Middle Eastern elite and Asian jetset, but for 50-75% off retail price. (Download the Sample Closet app to get alerts on all ongoing and forthcoming sample sales.) - Do take advantage of classes offered by other New School programs. - Do apply to be an RA (Resident Advisor in the dorms) for the chance to get FREE HOUSING IN NYC. I REPEAT, FREE HOUSING. NO RENT, PEOPLE. (Also, your federal loans accrue less interest.) - Don't turn into one of those "Can't-Live-Without-NYC" New Yorkers. (Please refer to the excellent metaphor of self-imposed concentration camp victim and prison guard in the 1981 Louis Malle film, My Dinner With André.) 2. For those who may be on the fence about going: As a prospective undergrad, what attracted me most about Parsons --- besides its location in New York --- was its affiliation with The New School. This is one great advantage that Parsons has over other design schools that do not operate under the umbrella of a larger institution. Experimentation and crossing disciplines is an important part of the undergraduate learning experience. For my part, I took writing classes at Lang, filmmaking classes at the General Studies school, and had a bit part in a Lang theater production (SO much fun!). I also, with my team, won an award with LVMH and took advantage of the internship listings available exclusively to Parsons students, resulting in three years at a prestigious publications house. I humblebrag to make a point, which is that the possibilities and opportunities are endless IF YOU SEEK THEM. Otherwise, unlike a campus college, no one is going to reach out to you to offer you options, options that could turn into distractions that take you away from your studies. The Parsons experience is the city experience; you are very much a part of the fabric of New York, commuting and working and being broken into the crazy-busy life of a New Yorker just like the rest of its inhabitants. However, if you think that you need to study at Parsons --- or in the city, for that matter --- to get internships that will lead to jobs, that is not always the case. My first job out of college had nothing to do with my internships. And interestingly enough, my friends who went to schools in the city had more circuitous routes to their current jobs than friends who went to school out-of-state. These out-of-state friends didn't have any connections in high places; except for the ones in finance who were recruited at campus job fairs, the rest just applied persistently for their opportunities. The biggest con in my perception of The New School as an alumna is that it seems to operate more as a business and less as a school committed to the quality of its education. There are more adjunct and part-time instructors than full-time and many of them, I'm sorry to say, are incompetent and far too busy with their own careers aside from teaching to bother with their classes. (This would be marketed by the school as, "Learn from professionals who are connected to the real world," or something to that effect.) I suspect that whatever profit is being made is invested into its makeover in order to attract more students, and thus more money. As soon as I'd graduated, the school started calling me and MY PARENTS asking for donations! What gall! I assume selectivity rates are generally low, esp for international students who pay twice the already exorbitant tuition. If there's anything that my senior portfolio class taught me, it's that four years of design instruction does NOT drive good taste or basic design sensibilities into some students' heads. Even for a "to each, her own" kind of person like me, some of these final presentations were just downright embarrassing and did not justify the price tag on their education. I believe that true talent will find its way to opportunity, no matter which school you're coming from. You should consider Parsons only if you can afford it without taking from your middle-class parents' savings or from your future. Otherwise, consider a campus school where you can dedicate yourself wholly to your craft and enjoy being a kid for a little longer. You can apply for summer internships in the city and relish New York that way, without feeling burnt out.

To parents whose children are looking at Parsons and The New School: this is the most unorganized…read moreinstitution I've dealt with and that includes directv and the DMV. This week I attended the graduations of two of my children who went through four years of both schools. From start to finish the school has consistently disappointed in their communication with both students and parents. As I type I have been waiting in line for an hour for a fashion show for graduating seniors. Scheduled opening 3pm start time 4pm. It's after 4pm and They haven't opened the doors yet. My fashion design student has gotten zero support from The school in forging relationships with the fashion industry. And Eugene Lang at the New School is just as bad. Save your money. This place is the worst.

The Art Students League will always have a special place in my heart. I can't speak to how they are…read morecurrently but I attended from 2015-2019 and made many friends here, and it was a great environment to create, whether I was learning wood sculpture or refining my vision as a painter. Most of the instructors were wonderful, offering guidance when I asked and space when I needed it. It is very reasonably priced and remains a true NYC institution. The only instructor I would caution against is Pat Lipsky. I found her conceited and negative, even spiteful at times. If your aesthetics do not align with Immanuel Kant or Clement Greenberg, you may not feel welcome in her class. After she asked me to help set up her studio for a visiting curator, I left the class. From that point on, she refused to acknowledge me when we crossed paths. Still, the overall experience was deeply meaningful. I am grateful for the time I spent here and the ways it shaped my work and friendships.

I left because too many cliques, too much ganging up on other artists. Management too weak (or…read moreafraid) to clean it up. Much better places for artists: . NY Studio School . NY School of the Arts

A few years ago I wrote a Yelp review of the School. I finally decided this is the perfect time to…read morerewrite it. I'm a photography enthusiast that needs on going training. I enjoy the workshops at the school. I also like to see the exhibits. I need to attend more workshops to improve my photography skills even more. Their website now provides me with a valuable resource. The school was founded in 1947. They have a lot to offer including Art History another subject I've taken. I may not remember everything I've learned over the years but I do find it beneficial when I recognize an artist's work. I'm recommending you go to their website to see how they are handling the classes during the pandemic. I checked it out and they have virtual talks and exhibitions. I think you'll enjoy participating in any manner this school presents their educational activities. Zoom to your hearts content!

I attended the School of Visual Arts years ago, and leaving was one of the best decisions I ever…read moremade. My experience was defined by elitism, inflated egos, and an astonishing lack of genuine mentorship. Many students came from privileged backgrounds and carried themselves with an air of superiority. Unfortunately, some faculty members weren't much better. There's a difference between constructive criticism and condescension, a distinction certain professors seemed unable to grasp. I'll never forget one describing my artwork as "boring--oh, I mean, not boring...just not interesting." Truly groundbreaking artistic insight, NOT. I also overheard an instructor, who now leads an entire program, complain about teaching students who would eventually earn more than the faculty. Imagine being an educator and viewing your students' potential success as something to resent rather than celebrate. That spoke volumes to me about the culture I encountered! Instead of fostering creativity, intellectual curiosity, and meaningful critique, I experienced far too much pretentiousness, gatekeeping, and professional insecurity masquerading as artistic authority. And to the professors who judged me, looked down on me, or dismissed my potential, well, your opinions were never the measure of my abilities, nor were they a prediction of my future. The students you underestimate may very well go on to accomplish more than you ever imagined. I certainly did. I went on to build a successful, financially rewarding career in design, without adopting the arrogance I encountered in those classrooms. The irony is rather satisfying. Some of the people so eager to question my potential seemed more invested in asserting their own superiority than nurturing anyone else's talent. Perhaps the most valuable lesson I took away from SVA was that authority and wisdom are not the same thing. And neither are arrogance and talent. An expensive lesson, certainly. But thankfully, one I didn't need to stay there to learn.

Students here are hugely talented. Generally their work far exceeds what passes for student work…read moreat other schools I've seen. So there is a lot of inspiration here. Housed in a historic building filled with nooks and passageways that are beyond cool. You are fully immersed in an authentic artistic experience. I've taken art classes on both coasts, and NYSS has my highest recommendation by far.

The New York Studio School unfortunately relies way too much on it's past esteem. I would highly…read morerecommend participating in one of the many "Marathon's" the school is known for and offers each semester however I would discourage anyone contemplating the MFA or Certificate Program from doing so. Expensive and still not nationally accredited, this school has less than par studio conditions. Bad ventilation in many of the overcrowded work studios and several abusive long time staff members detract from any positive experience. Another problem is the atelier teaching method with few expceptions often corrupts individual talent resulting in work that looks very similar. If you are seeking studio space in NYC there are cheaper options and better MFA programs in the area. Despite all of this there are some extrordinary artists who teach there -- but in my opinion -- definitely not worth the price of admission.

I took a beginner's drawing & oil painting class here which took place on Monday nights - not a…read moredegree course, just an "after-school" type of instruction, from 6:30 to 9:30 pm over the course of 12 weeks. I really looked forward to my evenings at the NY Academy of Art. Adam Cross, the instructor, was phenomenal. He was an absolute expert on the matter, and provided constructive criticism, always in a kind manner, basically just giving you tips on how to improve and sharing ideas for things you can do to make your drawing or painting better. He made the class fun and interactive and was genuinely interested and passionate about teaching us art. I did not have prior experience coming into this class, and I didn't feel lost at all. It is slow-paced (in a good & most necessary way) and really teaches you the foundations. Homework is given for those who want it, and I was pretty impressed with the drawings I could make by Week 4! I highly highly recommend this class for beginners. You will be stunned at the work you've produced by the end of it. PS: we also took a tour of the actual degree students' studios -- their work is stunning!! Makes me want to go to art school :)

Stopped in to view a show of new graduates and also one of the teachers. Amazing to say the least…read more So glad my daughter picked this school for her Masters. Can wait to see what in store the next two years

I am so happy I found this place! I have not ever drawn anything my whole life (stick figures for…read moreUML don't count). I wanted something for a beginner to start me off, not a full-blown art education. I Yelped, of course, and after looking at a dozen studios, I chose this one because they had a "Fear Free" drawing class. How appropriate. Well, the business shares its space with an apartment complex; it sits in the basement. For a claustrophobic person, I was a bit nervous at first as I walked in and saw the office right behind the door. The 2 art rooms are a bit cramped and not at all fancy as I imagined them to be after seeing them in movies, but guess what? This place really grows on you! The owner and instructors are so welcoming, especially to newbies like me who don't even know how to hold a pencil. They not only encourage you, but provide you with instructions catered to your own skill level and comfort zone. So after I stopped breathing for a minute, I raised my hands and asked for help. As you can see, my result after one class (it's charcoal!) There are numerous different classes for every level. You can purchase all your supplies there. What's great for folks that don't know what's needed, they actually bundle all you need and list them on the course site. I basically knew what to expect the first day I was there. Make sure to read the instructions that is emailed to you after you sign up. When you get to the studio, ring the door bell once. Someone will let you in. Just sit and wait. The elevator person will flag you momentarily when the elevator is headed down to the studio. That's it. Enjoy!

NO, they botched my registration, and shifted the blame to me -- cancelled a class I registered for…read moreon the SAME day; yet allowed registration though emails showed their fumble. NOW DONT WANT TO REFUND

Ashcan is definitely one of the best art studios of NYC. Very nice and talented teachers there…read morehelping me to prepare my portfolio and finally I got accepted by Parsons. A lot of thanks to them and great time spending there.

Going to Ashcan was the best decision I could have made. I learned so much and was guided every…read morestep of the way to make the best art portafolio for the university. If it was not for them I would have not been able to create such great work and get accepted to my dream school.

Amazing! Has taught many of my elementary school students, this place is great!read more

This is THE place on the Upper East Side for art classes, art summer camp, and art birthday…read moreparties! NYC families may have lots of options when it comes to creative activities for kids, but The Art Center is in a class by itself. Staffed by professional artists who find true joy in teaching kids, The Art Center builds real art skills while making learning fun. Just check out the display window at 423 E 75th...then imagine YOUR kid producing something that astonishing for your living room wall. The Art Center can make it happen!

I'm an experienced designer in fashion industry. I always…read morewanted to learn more and more and I found this school ,so I can keep learning and practicing. the class curriculum was really nice and well coordinated! loved atmosphere of classes and staff in there as well. they are so friendly and helpful!! I took single courses of draping&pattern making which helps my job.Ester who was my teacher she always passionated every time I had question for project. I have had taken couple classes from FIT but I liked NYSD much better. I'm hoping I can take more classes in this school soon.

From the owner: At NYSD we offer a fast-paced, real-world learning environment. We offer programs in Fashion…read moreDesign, Fashion Technical Design, Menswear Design, and Couture Design. Join us to gain the skills you need to make it in the fashion world.

Michiyo is amazing! I cannot say enough good things about her classes. If you go on her website,…read moreyou can see samples of her work. Okay well, you can think, amazing work does not always equal amazing teacher. However, when I took her first class with the Yelp deal, it solidified my impression of her classes. Not only will she help you with the foundation of watercolor, she will also help you improve your painting beyond what you think you can do. I had only take a few classes of watercolor elsewhere beforehand, but I definitely can see the difference in teaching. Her classes are 6 students max and they fill up quickly (so be sure to register early!). It's good because the less students, the more help you can get, therefore the faster you can improve. While her classes are on the pricey side, it is definitely worth it for the smaller class size. The only con is that she only offers classes every other week - definitely wish I could take more!

From my very first class with Michiyo at the Art Students League, I felt I had found the teacher to…read moremeet my expectation. After her Art Students League three-week workshop, I followed Michiyo to two additional locations, two additional 4-6 week workshops. Each time I learned so much. Michiyo's is the best art teacher I ever had. She teaches her exceptional technique but she fully respect her students' personalities. But she also help them to gain confident in their skills until they outdo themselves. If you are dedicated to learning watercolor, I highly recommend Michiyo.