One of the most impactful parts of my MFA experience at RIT has been working closely with faculty across disciplines. I came in expecting tough critiques and maybe even a little fear-based teaching (we’ve all heard scary stories), but what I found was something different! Mentors who push you, but with care, curiosity, and intention.
My professors in ceramics, Peter Pincus and Jane Shellenbarger, have completely changed the way I think about making. Their critiques don’t leave you wondering if you’re even cut out for this, they leave you excited to get back in the studio! They’ve pushed me toward work I didn’t even know I wanted to make. When someone you respect believes in your ideas and work ethic, you want to show them what you’re capable of. You want to work even harder.
And it’s not just within ceramics. One of the reasons I chose RIT was its strong support for interdisciplinary exploration. While my degree is in ceramics, I’ve been able to branch out into printmaking, oil painting. Christina Leung, who teaches everything from sculpture to studio technology, has become a hugely supportive voice during my time here. She has one of the sharpest, most generous minds, and she’s been there for everything from studio visits to artist statement edits (even over the summer!). Here at RIT other departments want to see you succeed just as much as your own department!
My biggest advice to new MFA students? Make connections with faculty early. Don’t wait for critiques or formal meetings. Reach out. Invite professors into your studio, even if you’re nervous. The feedback you get will be different every time, and those varied perspectives are incredibly helpful for your work and growth.
Critique culture here is one of my favorite parts of being in the MFA program. It’s a time where everyone’s voices matter, and we’re all trying to make work that pushes boundaries. That sounds cheesy, but it’s true. So if you’re thinking about RIT, or just starting out here I hope you know how wonderful the professors are and they will show up for you.
Also, it's not just professors! The Wallace Library has a team of librarians who can help you dive into research for your work. Specialized people who want to help you find obscure texts on folk art or feminist theory or whatever weirdly specific thing your work hinges on. It’s a dream!
About the author
Hello! I’m Jamie Westermeyer, a ceramics MFA student at RIT’s School for American Crafts. I grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, and moved to Rochester by way of San Francisco. When I’m not in the studio, you can find me thrifting, hiking, or testing new recipes with my fiancé. I’m excited to share my journey as a maker and grad student at RIT.
