On the outside, it seems like art students have the freedom to do whatever they want, lead stress-free lives in their creative bubble and don’t feel pressure to give in to the expectations of a more conservative society. In reality, art students struggle with perfecting their craft, realizing their potential, completing assignments and passing exams, snagging internships and jobs, building their portfolio, and finding space and other outlets to show off their talents. Read on for five secrets to being successful and staying focused in art or design school.

1. Set goals, but be realistic: No matter how talented your high school classmates and parents think you are, don’t expect to be plucked out of art school and discovered as the next greatest thing. Set regular goals for yourself at the beginning of each semester or year, and have a clear but open idea of what you want to achieve after graduation. Goals will help you stay focused and disciplined, but you’ll also need to be realistic to the rejection that you will inevitably experience. Don’t take it as a bad sign; consider everything a learning experience and the opportunity to see things in a new light.
2. Explore something new: If your schedule allows for it, take a class outside of your comfort zone. For example, if you’re an actor, take a painting class. If you are a sculptor, take a graphic design course. In addition to learning a new skill, you’ll gain a new perspective on art in general, and your specialty may even improve due to your understanding of a new creative outlet. By staying open to new art forms and subjects, you may even discover a way to combine media and invent something completely original.
3. Take advantage of local resources and exhibitions: If you attend art school in a big city, visit large museums and smaller galleries for inspiration. Art students may be given discounts on admission and at art supplies stores, so take advantage of your student status while you can. While you’re in school, you’ll also have access to classrooms, dark rooms, extra supplies and other resources. Take advantage of your teachers’ connections and sign up for as many exhibitions and opportunities as you can, as these will help build your portfolio and introduce you to buyers, employers and other artists.
4. Separate class work from your personal work: A major tip to succeeding in art school is not to get too attached to your class assignments. While it’s important to work hard on projects assigned by your teachers, don’t forget to pursue personal projects that let you explore yourself creatively and take you in new directions.
5. Don’t neglect your portfolio: One the best benefits of attending art school is having the time, resources and opportunity to build up your portfolio. As an artist, your portfolio is probably the most important thing you have as far as finding jobs and clients. Stay organized, work on a variety of pieces including projects not assigned by your teacher, and consider your work as your resume.

Top Online Programs

A.A. in Information Technology B.S. in Web Development B.S. in Communications	University of Phoenix – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – The University of Phoenix prepares students for the rapidly evolving multi-million dollar industry of World Wide Web designing and interactive media. The programs offered at the institute teaches students everything from developing their skills in drawing and design to learning programming and scripting techniques.
B.S. in Web Development B.S. in Communication A.A.S. in Information Technology	Kaplan University – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree - Kaplan University offers a web design degree that could be completed in as few as 12 months. This allows students to earn their degree at an accelerated pace and be on their way to advancing in their career in web design.
B.F.A. in Web Design A.A.B.A. in Visual Communications B.F.A. in Digital Design	American InterContinental University – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – For those interested in the exciting career of web design, American InterContinental Universitye will help them prepare with their staff of knowledgeable and skilled professionals who have had prior experience working in the web design industry. The program is a great choice for those seeking to pursue a career in web design, web development, graphic design, graphic art, or web publications designer.
A.S. in Web Design B.F.A. in Graphic Design B.A. in Fashion Merchandising	International Academy of Design & Technology – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree - Since 1977, the International Academy of Design and Technology Online has helped thousands of students prepare for a career in which their creativity and talents are respected and valued. Their affordable courses allow individuals with a passion for web design to advance in their career.
B.S. in Web Design & Multimedia B.S. in Visual Communications A.S. in Graphic Design & Multimedia	Westwood College – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – Westwood College's programs consists of courses in design theory, web design, imaging and advanced web technology to help students build valuable portfolios for potential employers. They offer their programs completely online, allowing flexibility for working individuals or individuals with other time contraints.
A.S. in Web Graphic Design B.C.I.S. in Web Development B.C.I.S. in Web Game Programming	DeVry University – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – DeVry University has helped thousands of students apply practical skills to produce high-quality graphics and develop many types of graphic media. They are ideal for many students because of their affordable and convenient programs available online.
B.A. in Visual Communications B.A. in Art History	Ashford University – Bachelor's Degree - Dedicated to helping intellectual, professional, and creative individuals, Ashford University offers one of the best web design degrees online. Their web design courses are very convenient and achieveablefor students who have restricting schedules.
B.S. in Web Design A.S. in Web Design Diploma in Web Design	The Art Institute of Pittsburgh – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree - The Art Institute of Pittsburgh provides students with the opportunity to learn the latest software and programming applications to compete in the highly competitive, yet rewarding, web design industry. They place special emphasis on the practical application of web development skills and how to effectively use them for organizations.