Meet some of the students who make Ringling College great
Get to know our brilliant and talented students. Read their inside perspectives on the Ringling College campus culture, what they will miss the most about their time here, and hear about the unique experiences they have had during their time as students.
she/her
Ringling has this energy of real support and care. It feels like a true community where you can go to your teachers not just for critiques, but for real guidance, and know they’ll do everything they can to help you. Sometimes that even means digging into their own pockets to make sure you have what you need. There’s this sense that everyone is invested in your growth, and that makes a difference in the art you create.
The roles I took on around campus really shaped me. Becoming a PreCollege Teaching Assistant completely changed me into a more confident artist and person. I got to see both students and faculty in a different light, and that gave me a lot of confidence in myself. Even being a gallery monitor and helping set up exhibitions had the same effect. It pushed me into spaces I never would have gone on my own. You start to see things you never would’ve seen, and you realize confidence comes from that knowledge. The unknown feels scary at first, but once you’ve stepped into it, it’s not so intimidating anymore.
he/him
Ringling gave me my first real experiences managing projects, producing, and coordinating, and that happened pretty naturally through on-campus work, just collaborating with other creatives. It gave me a real look into what working in the industry actually feels like. Everyone is sharing and blending their practices all the time—that’s honestly how you find your people. I built skills, but more than that, I built relationships with people who became both colleagues and friends.
What I really love is how many disciplines exist here in one place. Painters, performers, photographers, filmmakers—everyone is sharing and blending their practices all the time. That makes it a uniquely collaborative environment, and it’s honestly how you find your people.
A single day here can tell the whole story. I’ve had days that started with organizing events for international students, moved into directing a photoshoot, then developing film in the darkroom, then working on a new app, all while managing student teams and still making time to eat with friends. It’s busy, but that mix of creativity, collaboration, and community is what makes every day feel exciting.
she/they
From my first day at Ringling, I felt deeply connected to the international student community. I’m from Armenia, and there was something really comforting about knowing that so many other students had also left home and traveled far to learn and create here. International students spent a few days of freshman orientation together on their own, and that was honestly enough time to build a community of friends who just got it. We shared the same feelings and experiences. I remember thinking, “I love how diverse this campus is,” and then immediately after, “I get to be a part of this.” That felt special.
The international student community is really involved in organizing events that represent and share our different cultures. Conversations about how “here” compares to “back home” have almost become a ritual—one I find genuinely heartwarming. Being part of that has made Ringling feel like home, and it’s reminded me how powerful creativity gets when it’s shaped by many cultures, stories, and perspectives at once.
she/her
In my first two years I kept pretty much to myself. I was lucky to have a roommate who dragged me out to things anyway, even when she knew I didn’t want to go. Thanks to her, I met so many people and actually started enjoying my time here.
Junior year something shifted. I helped start a brand-new Art History Club with friends. We invite Liberal Arts professors to give short, relaxed lunch lectures. Then I became the SGA rep for the club, so I’m in Student Government meetings every Tuesday and always in the loop. I also helped plan and set up the Game Art Senior Show, which is how I really connected with the seniors on that committee. This year I get to do it again, but for my own class.
But some of my favorite moments have been just working in the Game Art labs with friends. It sounds simple, but being around people who are that focused and that driven is genuinely inspiring. It pushes you to stay locked in.
she/her
Black Student Union has been a big part of my Ringling experience. As the social media manager, I get to design posters and photos for the club, which means I’m constantly mixing my passion for art with something that actually matters to my community. Some of my deepest friendships here started at BSU events. It gave me a natural way to get to know people outside of class and just hang out.
One thing that really captures what being here is like: showing up to a club or workshop and seeing so many people that it could fill an entire classroom. Student leaders and professors put real effort into making sure students are supported and mentored throughout their time here. That kind of investment is hard to miss, and it makes you want to show up.
The energy at Ringling is driven. Students and professors are constantly pushing you to be the best artist you can be, and that passion is genuinely infectious. As a young artist, being surrounded by that every day is incredibly inspiring.
she/her
The Game Art community has really shaped me. There are so many people interested in the same things, and that makes it easy to feel like you belong. I’ve also really loved The Art History Club, which was a surprise to me. I wasn’t super into art history going in, but I really enjoyed it and want to go deeper.
Being a commuter, I honestly never participated much in campus activities, and I really regret that. It’s a big part of why I pushed myself to live on campus my final year. The Game Design Club mixer was my first real on-campus event this year, and it was just really cool—seeing underclassmen come in, ask questions, getting to share my experience as a senior in Game Art. I even got to meet students from VR, which sounds like it should happen more often given that we’re in the same building. That event made me want to keep showing up.
Ringling is the kind of place where you find people who are into the same things you are, maybe more than anywhere else. The community is tight-knit in a way that I think follows you past graduation, because the arts industry isn’t that big, and it really does feel like everyone knows everyone. But what I appreciate most is how relaxed and open people are socially. I’ve never talked to another student here and felt judged. It’s always been a positive experience, even with people I don’t know. Everyone is just willing to connect when given the chance.
she/her
BrickHouse, Ringling’s Lego Club, has been a huge part of my experience. It gave me a creative outlet outside of class and a way to connect with people who share the same playful, imaginative energy. We build together, relax, and inspire each other’s ideas. Genesis, Ringling’s annual fashion show, has been equally meaningful. Getting involved let me step into a whole new side of creativity, collaborating with designers to bring a collective vision to life.
One moment that really captures what it’s like to be here: staying up late in the labs with friends before a deadline. Everyone was working on their own thing, but it felt like a team effort—bouncing ideas off each other, sharing snacks, pushing through the stress together. That mix of support, collaboration, and passion is what Ringling really feels like. You’re surrounded by artists who are constantly pushing themselves and lifting each other up at the same time.
she/her
Being a Resident Assistant has been one of the most important parts of my time at Ringling. It taught me how to support and advocate for others, and creating a positive community in my building is something I’ve really valued. I’ve met some of my closest friends through that role. In the Film program, I’ve also built strong connections across different years. Working with both underclassmen and upperclassmen has pushed me to approach projects in new ways and shown me how much collaboration really matters.
One moment that really sums it all up happened freshman year. Some seniors in Film invited me to help set dress for their thesis, and we turned an empty warehouse into an ’80s video store in just a few hours. I didn’t know what to expect going in, but it quickly became this full team effort where everyone just pitched in. Those seniors ended up becoming mentors, and that experience set the tone for everything that came after—the kind of collaborative, all-hands energy that runs through this whole program.
The campus is constantly in motion. Walking around, you’ll always see people in the middle of something, like film shoots, sketching, building things out in the studios. There’s this constant sense that everyone is making something and pushing themselves. That’s motivating. It reminds you that you’re part of a community of people who are all genuinely focused on creating and growing.
she/her
The College has high energy. Everyone here truly cares about what they do and is very talented, so you have people who are super passionate about their craft. I really like how inspiring that is.
In Fine Arts, you’d think people would be super focused on their individual work, which, to a certain extent, is true. We also have a fun community because we are all interested in each other’s work, so there’s this sense of community, but also healthy competition, as everyone wants you to be the best and also wants to do their best.
We had these duo shows during our Junior year towards the end of the year, where you work with another student to put a show together of our work. It was really a lot of work but it’s rewarding once it’s done—you get to see your work up so you have that accomplished feeling and that’s great!
she/her
One moment that stands out from my time at Ringling is the first brainstorming meeting for GENESIS Fashion Show. We had students from Graphic Design, Photography, Virtual Reality, music—you name it. Everyone was throwing out ideas and collaborating in ways that crossed majors. It showed me how much freedom we have to experiment and create here. For me, it captured the spirit of trying new things without fear, and discovering skills I never thought I had. It pushed me to collaborate on projects with people from all kinds of majors, which opened me up even more.
The International Cultures Club was a huge opportunity for me to build community. As an international student, it gave me a safe space to connect with others going through the same experience. It helped me feel proud of where I’m from while also becoming more comfortable meeting new people. And then through the Student Government Association, I got to help address campus issues and discovered things like the sustainability committee, which was really rewarding.
he/him
Ringling is a place that shapes you in ways you don’t expect, but always for the better. It
allows you to discover who you truly are as a creative person. I have always been surrounded by creative people, but at Ringling, it’s on another level. People are always working on unique and exciting things, and seeing both their process and final pieces is an experience I don’t think I could find anywhere else.
For me, one aspect of life that captures what it’s like to be a student here is having a group of friends from different majors and seeing what each of us is working on. I’m constantly amazed and inspired by their projects. I’ve had the opportunity to work on multiple exciting and collaborative projects, from the GENESIS Fashion Show to projects in the Design Center, where I work with incredible people who are passionate about creating new things. Working with so many different kinds of people has pushed me to improve the quality of my work while also helping me grow as a creative person.
she/her
Ringling’s energy is creative, collaborative, and uplifting. Everyone brings something unique to the table, and there’s a strong sense of support, students are always willing to brainstorm, share ideas, and lift each other up. It’s a place where creativity thrives through connection.
One moment that really embodied my experience as a student at Ringling was a night at the library with friends. We were deep in research, sharing ideas, giving each other feedback and in
between, laughing about the most random things. It was the perfect blend of creativity,
collaboration, and genuine connection. That night made me realize I had truly found my people—those who not only share my passion for art and design, but also my sense of humor and unique interests. I’ve never felt like I’ve belonged anywhere more than I do at Ringling.
Being one of the core members of the Illest of Illustration club has been a huge part of my Ringling experience. It’s helped me connect more deeply with my major and has given me real world experience that mirrors what I’ll face in the industry, like organizing the annual gallery show, coordinating with industry professionals, and planning events throughout the year. It’s also taught me a lot about problem solving, communication, and leadership. Most importantly, it helped me find my people, other illustrators who are just as passionate and driven, and who inspire me every day.
he/him
One of the best decisions I think I’ve ever made was attending the Campus Activities Board (CAB) general body meetings during my first year here at Ringling College. I was able to meet so many people from different majors at all of the unique events and activities, and eventually went from volunteering to working as an event manager for CAB. I feel like I’ve gained a lot of leadership experience, and it’s been amazing getting to collaborate with such a fun and creative office. I hope I can foster that same sense of community for others.
The energy on Ringling’s campus is unlike anywhere I’ve been before. I feel like all of the students here are united by a passion for their craft, always inspiring one another and pushing everyone to their fullest potential. Most of us were considered the “art kids” in high school, but I don’t consider that a negative at all. We’re a vibrant community full of creatives striving for success in more than just our artistic pursuits, making meaningful connections with the help of everything that Ringling has to offer.
she/her
My favorite moments on campus are the ones I experience with my friends. Whether it’s eating
together at Cunniffe Commons, sitting by the bayou spotting fish, or watching the newest episode of Rupaul’s Drag Race in your dorm, having friends by your side always makes it more fun. There are many chances to meet new people and see what fellow students are doing like during the art walk events and exhibition openings.
The Black Student Union (BSU) made a huge impact on me. When I first arrived on campus I didn’t see many people who looked like me, but one day the BSU president walked up to me and invited me to one of the events. I remember the first event I attended. Everyone was so nice—we ate popsicles and played card games. Since then I have been heavily involved in the club, eventually even becoming the Vice President.
I would describe Ringling as a tight-knit community overall. It’s a small but close community.
she/her
Ringling feels really inspiring, collaborative, and community-driven.
My experience with Women in Animation really helped me find my people, especially as a freshman. It connected me with upperclassmen who were supportive and encouraging. I also met some of my closest friends through the Campus Activities Board. Both gave me a strong sense of community.
The senior showcases at the end of the year always stand out as a moment that captures what it has been like to be a student at Ringling. Seeing the incredible work my friends and classmates have poured themselves into is inspiring. It shows the level of talent here and reminds me what we’re all working toward.
they/them
Ringling is chill, safe, and welcoming. It’s not a party school—people are usually in the labs—but the atmosphere is relaxed. You see so many different types of people expressing themselves freely, without fear of being judged. That sense of safety and ease is what I value most about being here.
There is also a real sense of community in the classes. Even in a room where I don’t know anyone, I never feel out of place. That’s huge for me, because I’ve struggled with anxiety in social situations. At Ringling, people make you feel safe and welcome, no matter your major or how small your program might be. It feels very different from bigger, more traditional schools—here, we all share a purpose, and that builds real connection.
Drag Club stands out the most as an organization that shaped my experience here. Even just attending shows, it was powerful to see people express themselves so freely, especially in Florida where that isn’t always welcomed. The energy gave me confidence and showed me how supportive and open this campus can be.
she/her
Ringling’s campus is dynamic, evolving, and inspiring. Every semester feels different, with new opportunities and new people to learn from. One of the most impactful experiences I have had here was working with students from different majors to organize a real gallery exhibition in my Exhibition Design and Management class. I served as co-creative director. It showed me how collaboration across disciplines can create something bigger than any of us could do alone. That mix of perspectives and talents is one of the best parts of Ringling. It’s a safe, creative space where you’re encouraged to explore, take risks, and redefine yourself as an artist.
Another big influence has been my on-campus jobs at the Center for Student Success and the Student Activities and Leadership Development department. Planning events for the community taught me strategic planning, event management, and gave me skills that blend art with business.
she/her
I will really miss the friends I made! Ringling has a very tight-knit community so I bump into a friend every day and we always have a little chat. And not only on campus, but also within the independent music community I became a part of in Florida.
During a music event in Scotts Plaza, I was sketching the band members of one of the bands that performed. Then they noticed me and said they liked it. Then, to my surprise, one of their wives bought the sketch from me!
she/her
I think the main aspect of a day at Ringling College is the sense of community. We improve and build upon our skills from the feedback and help of others. Also, lots of dedication and hard work! We feed off other people’s motivation.
One of the most impactful and unique experiences I had was attending Motion Design’s FutureProof conference in my first year. It was so exciting to meet all the successful Motion Design Ringling alumni who came back to share their experiences in the industry. It was very, very inspiring and it made me so passionate and motivated about my major!
Ringling is unlike other colleges. It’s smaller, more familiar and a nice environment to grow as an artist. There’s an emphasis on community and helping each other!
she/her
The atmosphere at Ringling College feels like a mix of summer vacation and crunch time at NASA. I am both the girl boss-city girl and hometown lumberjack in a Hallmark movie.
Ringling has majors and studies you can’t find anywhere else, and academics that will make you the best in the industry!
I’ve had some unique experiences here. Working with the INDEX team to design and fabricate Avant Garde over the last two years was amazing! To work alongside professionals and make something that supports student scholarships is so cool.
And bonus, the College is an hour south of Tampa and 15 minutes away from the #1 beach in the country. We’d go more, but we’re so passionate about our work!
she/her
I would describe the day-to-day atmosphere here as hard-working but very collaborative. I’m almost always working with my friends in a big group so we can ask each other questions and get feedback, but also make sure we’re having fun doing so. Every day we watch movies and bring snacks to each other in project rooms while looking over our projects.
The community here is definitely the thing I will miss the most about Ringling College. I’m a Motion Design major, and it’s a very tight-knit group. Our faculty are always hosting and attending events and are very involved in each student’s progress. I can make my individual goals known, and they’ll find a way to get me there. Same thing with my classmates, being creative and putting yourself out there can be terrifying, but the encouragement I’ve received from my peers has been instrumental to how I view my own work. I’m definitely going to miss it when I graduate.
she/her
Ringling is a college that pushes you to your full potential—where you learn about art and the industry in tandem and forge incredible connections with fellow creatives. The Career Services department has brought in people from companies I’ve always dreamed of working for! Getting to go to their presentations and speak with them has been such a cool experience.
No matter where I go on campus, no matter the time of day, I always find support. This school is full of amazing facilities, passionate faculty, and inspiring classmates. And the atmosphere here is charged with creative energy! Everywhere I go, I see people creating inspiring work, it’s impossible to be art-blocked at Ringling College.
he/him
As a Graphic Design major, I had the unique experience of joining the Ligature team. It was a way for me to collaborate with a bunch of people in the major from sophomores to seniors. It allowed me to design, collaborate, and think in another way, unrelated to a class project. There is such a big sense of community among the students and faculty here. I will really miss collaborating on projects and learning from other classmates and faculty.
she/her
Ringling College has such a warm atmosphere. Even when the sun hides behind the clouds, the people around me make up a warm day.
Starting my first year at home due to COVID-19, changing majors, and restarting with knowing absolutely nothing scared me to pieces. Who knew I’d find comfort in baking gochujang cookies while working on my illustrations?
Since coming, I’ve met some of the best people here, and it’s sad knowing that I won’t be able to see some of them due to distance. Working with the best professors who bring out the best in you, to the peers who motivate you to work harder—it’s a different kind of warmth when you’re around the friends you love at the end of a hard workday. It’s a daily routine I’m blessed to have.
Great weather + inspirational people = Ringling College.
she/her
Ringling is an art and design college that embraces uniqueness and unity, fostering the greatest and kindest artists of our generation for success. It’s so refreshing to be surrounded by such talented people with similar interests.
I’ve had unparalleled support in my creative process. I had a personal project that I felt really compelled to finalize, and I wanted some guidance from my professors. I was surprised when I was greeted with so much enthusiasm. They spoke about it with other teachers, who offered to help as well. I felt so seen and embraced.
she/her
Hands down, the best thing about this place is the community. There is no place quite like Ringling when it comes to being around like-minded creatives. I’m truly going to miss my friends and peers who are always encouraging and supportive. There is a never-ending flow of creativity from the classroom to around campus. People are always making and sharing something new!
It’s a school where artists further their passion and discover what they truly love to make, and then turn it into an astounding career.
While in my plein air painting class, I sold one of my pieces on location! I was painting a pink apartment building when one of its residents was walking by. She said to me, “That’s my door!” as she pointed at my work. Now that painting is a part of her home! It was an extremely cool thing to experience.
he/him
The friends I have made here are the most genuine, hardworking, and honest people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. Not only have the students been incredible, but the teachers. So many of them have put in the time and effort to connect with me to make sure I have been making the best quality work I can produce to prepare me for the future. They will all be missed, and I’m grateful I have been able to meet all of them.
Going to the IAPPA conference in Orlando was like a dream come true—arcade machines, industry professionals, and talented people everywhere. It was insane how just going for a few hours could potentially change your life. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who can go—you’ll never forget it!
Ringling is definitely fast-paced! I’m constantly bouncing between classes, the gym, the labs, and trying to squeeze in some time to hang with my friends. It can be a bit crazy at points, I won’t lie, but the more you progress through your four years, the more you start to get better at time management, and overall you will feel more prepared for a real-world working environment.
he/they
The thing I will miss the most about my time here is just being with my friends and collaborating with them all the time. I will miss getting to connect and work with fellow photographers and artists on each of our projects.
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