Story of My Son's 2026 College Admissions to RISD, CalArts, and Pratt (and more)…read more
My son attended NUART for about one and half year starting in the summer before his junior year. At that time, he had just decided to pursue art school but had little clarity on how to move forward. That's when we found NUART, and Ms. Jiji Ryoo recognized our son's talent and potential. With clear direction and thoughtful guidance, she helped him find his path from day one.
Although our son showed artistic talent, he initially lacked foundation. At NUART, he was able to build those fundamentals while simultaneously preparing his portfolio for college applications. After a year and a half of hard work, he achieved results beyond anything we could have imagined. It was truly an emotional and unforgettable moment for our entire family. Along the way, we also discovered strengths in him that we hadn't fully recognized before.
We came to realize that studying art is not just about getting into college. It is a deeply sophisticated process of self-reflection and self-discovery. Through this journey, our son grew not only as an artist but also as a person. He developed patience, discipline, and perseverance.
As his portfolio developed, Ms. Ryoo grew increasingly confident in his abilities and encouraged him to apply to CalArts and RISD - both among the top art schools in the United States. For those familiar with art school admissions, these two schools have very different portfolio expectations, requiring distinct approaches. Despite the challenge, Ms. Ryoo guided him through this demanding process and helped him manage everything effectively.
In the end, my son was accepted to both CalArts and RISD. He was also admitted to Pratt, SVA, SAIC, MICA, Syracuse, and Ringling (Ringling is one of the top animation schools in the nation) with merit scholarships.
When we received his college acceptance letters, it felt like more than just gaining admission. It marked a major turning point in his life. Throughout that journey, Ms. Ryoo was there every step of the way, offering unwavering support.
We came to understand that admissions strategies must vary depending on each student's unique character and circumstances. Portfolio direction and content are never one-size-fits-all. As his portfolio developed, it began to feel like we were reading a visual essay about who he is as a person.
Having studied music from childhood through college, I understand very well the profound influence a teacher can have on a student in the arts. Before a student develops their own unique voice, a teacher's guidance - from foundational skills and technical training to artistic mindset, approach, time management, and even artistic philosophy - plays an important role, especially during the middle and high school years.
In that sense, meeting a teacher like Ms. Ryoo -someone who is not only highly intelligent and accomplished, but also deeply passionate about each individual student and genuinely invested in their future - is truly a rare blessing. To be guided by an artist who cares this much is an opportunity that should not be taken for granted.
For anyone preparing for art school, I cannot recommend NUART strongly enough 1000%. I strongly encourage you to visit, meet the teacher, and see for yourself. It may very well change your path in the best possible way.