Amanda -
07/08/2018As a branch of the University of New Haven diversity and active involvement in the community are key principals of our education. At Lyme Academy students strive to live out these principals through fine and studio art. After a vigorous freshman year artists can chose a major in Painting, Sculpting, Drawing (with minors in either Sculpture or Painting) and Illustration, and upon senior year will have the opportunity to create their own project complete with an individualized studio. Outside of class students can participate in a variety of different activities such as lectures, concerts, therapy dog visits, trips, and other fun events the Student Council hosts. Many of the students, myself included, are huge fans of cartoons and anime, so anybody interested in animation will fit in well here although animation itself is not offered as a major.
Lyme Academy is located in picturesque Old Lyme, CT, with housing available either on-campus across the street or off-campus in Old Saybrook at Post and Main apartments. The area is very safe ( with a 0% crime rate), and police check around the campus regularly to ensure everything is fine. There are multiple resources nearby such as a fire station, emergency centers, art galleries, shops, and places of worship. Your student ID card can also be used at several places for either free admission or a discount on prices.
Several drawbacks I can list to attending Lyme Academy are its competitiveness, high undergraduate tuition costs and fees ($26,904 as of 2012 according to their website), several small issues in the past regarding offensive social media posts, and the fact that the school is located within the range of a nuclear power plant site. However, the staff and faculty are widely available to help parents and students with any difficulties they might be facing, and are quick to respond to a situation. New students and beyond are also instructed safety procedures in the event of an emergency. The goal of the University of New Haven is to ensure the safety and respect of everyone on campus.
Overall Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts is a fine choice for those persuing a degree in fine and studio art. While not the cheapest pick of the bunch there are plenty of financial aid opportunities available, and most students remain at the school for the full four years needed to obtain their BFA. We welcome diverse minds and a drive for creativity, and the ability to be open to new ideas. Whether you strive to create art simply for aesthetic purposes or to make a statement this college will help equip you will the skills needed to become a successful artist for the future.
