Sophomore Review
SOPHOMORE REVIEW – From an upperclassmen prespective!
The golden key to advancement
Sophomore Review occurs in April before the semester is through. I call it the “golden key to advancement” because it is a mandatory process reviewing a students’ work in order to advance into the program. Freshman and sophomores have both asked me questions about the review expressing genuine concern. The best advice I could give is, “If you’re passionate about it, enjoy it, and have a sincere skill, it won’t go unnoticed.” But to get more perspective, I’ll go a bit further so you know what to expect.
PORTFOLIO
The first step into going through review, GET YOUR PORTFOLIO READY! Your portfolio consists of three projects. One project must be residential from ADHM 251, another must be commercial from ADHM 253 or ADHM 254, and the third must be a graphics project from ADHM 251, ADHM 253, ADHM 254 or ADHM 261. Each student will turn in everything from the projects and the graphics project must demonstrate the student’s ability to draw a perspective and render an illustration. All these projects must be put into a portfolio along with a brief description of goals of the project and how these goals were attained. The quality and breadth of work within the portfolio is what will be reviewed. The professors like to see your progress throughout the last year; therefore, provide projects that you feel can best demonstrate this. For more specific guidelines, refer to the Sophomore Review application form. Completed application form and student portfolio is due no later than 12:00 noon, Friday, April 17, 2009, in EML 178.
INTERVIEW
The interview takes place Saturday, April 25, 2009, starting at 9:00 A.M. Each student must sign up for a time that can work with his/her schedule. The amount of time for each interview may vary per student ranging from 15 to 20 minutes. At the interview, all the professors within the interior design program will ask as many questions as they feel necessary to get an understanding of your academic standing, professional goal, and design knowledge. The main thing that you should remember is that you are presenting yourself! Professional dress is necessary; usually a suit is best.
FAQ:
Here are some more frequently asked questions that I may not have covered previously:
Q: When should I start preparing for sophomore review?
A: You can prepare as soon as you are positive which project you’d like to submit. It takes some time to copy your documents, touch up imperfections (if necessary), and fill out the application. So like with any project, don’t wait until last minute!
Q: When is the latest we will find out if we are accepted?
A: The notification letters will be sent out no later than June 1, 2009. Therefore, you should be getting your result during that week.
Q: Should I register for AutoCAD during summer registration or wait until I know I’m in?
A: REGISTER NOW! You don’t want to risk not having the opportunity to take it. It would hinder your advancement into the program since all projects after sophomore year are completed with AutoCAD.
Q: Are we allowed to make changes on our projects?
A: You are allowed to make changes; however, it isn’t advised. The professors want to see your progress through the sophomore year. If you’ve changed certain things on your projects, be sure to provide an explanation on the back of the presentation board. You may consider attaching before and after photographs of a board to show changes you may have made. Don’t worry about having your projects be perfect.
Q: What Is the criteria for applying to the program?
A: Before you submit your portfolio, the application form, and your transcript, double check if you meet the application requirements: you must have completed all your required interior design studios and co-requisite lecture courses, and a 3.0 cumulative GPA for core requirements. Required courses are listed on the Sophomore Review application form.