Perpich Students Shine at Portfolio Day 2021

October 25, 2021

On Monday, October 25, students at Perpich Arts High School participated in Portfolio Day, celebrating college and career readiness. For over 20 years each October, Perpich sponsors a Portfolio Day, offered in conjunction with a national portfolio day at Minneapolis College of Art and Design.

This year, 15 institutions were on campus to connect with Perpich students. Assistant Principal and Studio Arts Chair, Rebecca Bullen, said, “We were not able to do this last year [due to COVID] and the impact was felt. Students, despite their nerves, love the ability to hear about schools and the amazing opportunity to have a one on one conversation focused on their work. They leave inspired, with great feedback and some with scholarships! It is awesome to have schools here, in person, connecting and supporting our young artists. I so appreciate them AND a huge kudos to our arts teachers for getting our students to the place where they feel prepared to have these conversations.”

Media Arts and Visual Arts students showed their work to college experts and admissions professionals. They learned about what those colleges have to offer and if they are a good fit as a prospective student. The experts also offered some constructive criticism. Participating colleges gave Perpich students high praise. Representatives from some of the most selective art schools in the country come to campus to review student portfolios.

Laura Selle Virtucio leads a college-level, contemporary dance class with Perpich students.

Dance students spent the afternoon with two University of Minnesota instructors: Nora Jenneman, Associate Director of Undergraduate Studies for Dance and Laura Selle Virtucio, Teaching Specialist in the Dance Program as well as the Rehearsal Director for the University Dance Theater Productions. They started with a contemporary dance class taught by Laura, to help students participate in a college-level dance experience. Then Nora gave an overview of the University of Minnesota Dance program including details on auditions, applications, curriculum, performance opportunities, and more. The students danced beautifully and got a better framework for dance at a university level.

Literary Arts students were treated to a virtual visit from Chantz Erolin (Literary Arts 2009). Chantz shared stories about the path that led to his position as an editor at the award-winning publisher, Graywolf Press. The route to that job took several turns and good fortune played a part, but so did lots of hard work and skill. Erolin credited Perpich for providing him with (some of) the tools he needed, as well as Lit friends for life. “Students asked smart questions and we could have talked a lot longer. It was a great hour!” said Shannon Hannigan, Literary Arts Instructor.

Some participating colleges from Portfolio Day had this to say about Perpich:

“Thank you so much for hosting MIAD at Perpich Portfolio Day! Honestly the organization of the event was spot on and the day flowed really seamlessly. I had great reviews with so many students interested in pursuing art, it was great hearing their ambitions and giving feedback to them.” Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design

“Perpich students consistently deliver strong artwork and are able to discuss their process and ideas – they are disciplined, driven, confident, and sharp. They respond to feedback with gratitude, enthusiasm, and curiosity. The event is well-organized, worthwhile, and really a visual treat to attend!” Maine College of Art & Design