In my opinion, school is a great place to start; to ‘get in’ and work your way up. It is a safe place to learn how to take criticism, develop your design skills, and learn how to present yourself and your work in a careful, professional matter. By not going to school, you will be missing out on the all too important arena of design theory as well. I think this is where I can really see the difference in someone’s work. Many designers lack concept in their work, or they’ve got a concept in their mind that didn’t show through on the product. Why not jump in and let some really amazing professors teach you everything they know about design? In the end, even the best private art school with the rock stars of professors will only get you so far. You have to work really hard to get the most out of your education. A lot of people quit art school after their first year or semester, but the truth is, going to the school won’t make you all you can be, it’s up to you. You should also look into getting a grant to go to school, or submitting a portfolio to win a scholarship… this lessens the blow of tuition and is encouraging as well! Feel free to ask me more about it! I am excited for you and your future!