Moore College of Art & Design


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Maria Sweeney

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Class of: 2016
Major: Illustration
Hails from: Whiting, NJ

I chose Moore for several reasons, one being the small student-to-teacher ratio.  I like that the classes are small and each student and their work is treated individually.  Moore's location in Center City Philadelphia was also a deciding factor because it allows me to explore the city. I also looked into Moore's classes thoroughly and found their Illustration major to be one that seems to encompass all the skills that I'll need once I graduate. Lastly, I chose Moore because when I came here for various events and workshops, everyone seemed genuinely happy that I was there.  Even when applying, I felt like the school really wanted me and valued my work, which is the greatest feeling.

I was awarded the Iva and Joe Samost Scholarship. It means so much to me and to my family because it means I can pursue my career and passion.  Education is a huge investment -- especially a good one like the one Moore provides -- so knowing that I'm taken care of allows me to focus entirely on my work.

Besides the wonderful friendships and contacts I've made at Moore already, the classes themselves are enjoyable and challenging.  This year first-year students are allowed to take a "drop-down" class or elective that pertains to their major and intended Illustration majors take a digital painting course which is what I'm doing.  I love that Moore let's you take this one upper-level course during your Foundation year to help you experiment and get a feel for what your major is like.  I enjoy my Foundation drawing class as well, especially the digital aspect, where we integrate the iPads and use apps such as Sketchbook Pro and Asketch to draw on them, simulating traditional mediums.