How to Identify Future Art and Design Students

Help your students explore creative futures at OCAD University.

Our students at OCAD University have incredibly diverse backgrounds and interests. Some students knew they wanted to be artists and designers since childhood and some transfer here from business or engineering programs. Here are a few things to look for to help you identify prospective art and design students to better offer support.

What traits to look for in future art and design students

As a teacher or counsellor, you should look for a student who:

• is creative, unconventional, curious
• is interested in arts & culture, and/or has passion
• likes to think outside the box, and/or be hands-on
• likes to problem-solve, and/or is concerned about their community
• wants to make the world a better place, and/or is sensitive to their own or other?s thoughts or feelings

How to support art and design students

Supporting aspiring art and design students means helping them explore their creativity both in and out of the classroom. From engaging with the local art scene to participating in school programs and campus events, there are many ways to fuel their passion and prepare for a future in the arts.

• Encourage them to participate and be active in the local art community; attend openings, go to artist talks and take studio and writing classes outside of high school.
• Encourage them to experiment and take many art or design courses in high school, especially ones related to the program they?re interested in.
• Encourage them to create work and experiment on their own, outside of school.
• Book a High School Visit with our team.
• Join us on campus for a Special Tour!
• Encourage them to book a Virtual One-on-One meeting with Admissions.
• Encourage them to attend one of our many events including upcoming portfolio review days.

With your support and belief in your students abilities, your students will have the confidence to pursue their art and design career goals.