A second MFA?

[joyce_hethcox]

Looking for advice on the following situation related to photo ed. I

have an MFA in photography, but am not at all satisfied with the

level of instruction I received. I have actually considered

reapplying, this time to Yale. It was the program I wanted to apply

for originally but knew I wouldn't have the portfolio for it at the

time. I'm an English undergrad who discovered photo and worked for a

year on a portfolio to apply to grad school. I feel as though I've

made a mistake. Should I do it? Waste of time and money? Thanks for

reading.

[hsksla_ddygff]

joyce, higher education in photography is wonderful, but has its limits, its up to you to take it to the next step, use your time and finaces to explore photography, get some good equipment and use the time to persue what you feel gives you the most enjoyment, and discover your place in the field, there is the world of higher education and the real world, you have done the former now cut loose and see what you can do.

[will_legge]

If you not happy with your old school, why do you think Yale can give

you what you missed? Yale is not really known for its photo program.

Why not one of the top photo schools?

 

 

If you have an MFA, I assume you are technically proficient. So

except for working on your art, why do you need to go to school? If

you know your craft, I would just jump in and try your hand at being

an artist. A bachelor's degree can be very useful. The MFA is really

only needed if you want to teach at a college or university.

 

BTW, where did you get your MFA?

[matt_c3]

Yale admits 9 students out of (probably) hundreds each year for its MFA photography program. I didn't mention this to discourage you, but Yale is going to be a gamble for pretty much anyone. However, if you can stand to lose $75, then it might be worth it.

 

Could you be more specific with why you weren't satisfied with the instruction you received? Or discuss what sort of things you were hoping to learn? It sounds like you did not originally have a background in photography. If you don't feel confident with the technical aspects, look for a community college that offers extensive classes in photography. As far as the artistic/theoretical aspects, you could try discussing your work with former classmates and faculty.

 

Hope this helps

[heller_harris]

Hi - <br>

IMO, another MFA is only useful if you plan on teaching, in which case the "Yale" brand will probably help you get a job. If you want to take your skills to the next level, try to get professional experience as an assistant. Volunteer, if you have to, then build on that experience to get better gigs with better photographers. <br>

heller <br>

<a href="http://www.hollywoodscriptanalysis.com">HollywoodScriptAnalysis.com</a>

[aricmayer]

If you could tell us why you were unhappy with your program, what it was lacking for you,

what you need for your photography, and what you would like to achieve in another

program, maybe we can be of more help.