Here’s what it was like to attend one of the world’s most prestigious animation schools. From getting accepted to battling imposter syndrome, competing for the coveted Producers Show, and eventually building a career in animation and video games, this is an inside look at what the CalArts Animation Department was really like.

I also discuss why I ultimately became a novelist instead of a full-time animator, how luck and timing shape creative careers, and whether an expensive art school degree is still worth it in today’s world.

Whether you’re considering CalArts or curious about the realities of working as an animation or artist, I hope this candid perspective helps you make a more informed decision.

00:00 Why I Chose CalArts
00:47 Getting Accepted to A Top Animation School
01:39 Why I Chose A Degree in Film Instead of Writing
03:25 My First Years at CalArts & Imposter Syndrome
04:50 The Producers Show: Every Student’s Biggest Goal
06:17 The Lesson That Changed My Trajectory: Story Comes First
07:04 What CalArts Is Really Like
09:35 Is CalArts Still Worth the Cost Today?
10:12 The Reality of an Animation Career
12:08 Luck, Timing, and Landing My First Industry Job
15:00 My Final Verdict on CalArts