Is attending Full Sail University worth it? Here’s my review.
It was almost a year ago that I marched across that stage with my name flashing digitally in lights. I was the Advanced Achievement Scholar. It was sentimental for me. After staying up to make a presentation on a few hours of sleep, I was finally ending my program. I wasn’t focused on getting at job in that moment. I was more excited about the opportunity to sleep.
Many people ask me, ‘How was Full Sail?,” as if there is some underlying hidden bad thing about it. Here’s the truth. It’s great…for people in my program. Yes, Full Sail is a great place to study, but I do not endorse every major or study program. In some programs, I just don’t see the fruit.
However, those graduating in Digital Arts and Design are prepared for the workforce. I’ll write a more in-depth review of the program in a later article.
Legitimacy
Before coming, I researched Full Sail with a fine-toothed comb. I had questions of authenticity and Google was generous in letting me know I wasn’t alone. Many people have the same questions. I was walking the halls of Building 2 during class when a group of prospects stole away from their ‘Behind the Scenes’ tour to ask me with serious intent, “Is this really a good place to go?” I told them, without much hesitation, “Yes. Really it is.”
Location
Full Sail University has built its own city inside Winter Park. Students without cars benefit greatly from this. You can walk from Full Sail to a grocery store, restaurant or barber shop. It’s more of a challenge for the aspiring Orlando socialite. For those who want to tour bars and club all night you will need to drive or catch an Uber to those God-forbidden parts of downtown.
Instructors
An instructor, named Jae, met with me after class to make sure I was okay after showing up late. It’s proof that instructors actually care about student wellbeing and the subjects they teach. They are approachable and understanding. These are actually industry professionals, juggling industry projects and they are good at letting you know exactly what you need to know. I have high regard. There were many ‘real talk’ opportunities and in my most memorable one, the instructor told us, “If you’re doing everything we tell you to do, you’re not doing enough.”
Food
Food on campus is great at first, may get old after a year. In no time, Firehouse Subs will no longer be the star-studded jewel of campus. You’ll start looking down on Wendy’s and you’ll have eaten Chili’s so much that health-guilt will settle in like marinated barbecue sauce. You will then explore cooking, only to find you’re horrible at it. As you near graduation, you’ll have succumed to Zaxley’s pizza and secret escapades at McDonald’s.
Networking
The best part of the Full Sail experience is the lifelong connections you make with other students. There are many driven students who have passion projects and are seeking partnerships. Connect with those people. Full Sail does a phenomenal job of fostering networking opportunities with FSO Connect, career events, Facebook groups and Full Sail Hall of Fame. There are countless stories of alumni teaming up to do great things.
Job Placement
Did I get a job? You bet I did.
So, those who expect me to be a Negative Nino when writing about Full Sail will be sorely disappointed. The truth is, coming to Full Sail was one of the best decisions of my life.
What are your thoughts?
