After
Graduation
Graduates of our MA program consistently report significant professional achievements and growth. Many have advanced in their K-12 teaching careers, with a notable number receiving salary increases after receiving their degree. In fact, 76% of those who applied for a pay raise following their MA were successful, underscoring the value of advanced qualifications in driving career development.
In addition to excelling in traditional K-12 roles, many of our alumni are transitioning to higher education or exploring new opportunities in the private sector. With career trajectories that range from classroom experience to successful shifts into new professional areas, our graduates demonstrate how the program fosters both personal and professional advancement.
Hear from our
MA Alumni
What does The Florence Academy of Art’s Master of Arts in Studio Art mean for its graduates? For many, it’s a transformative journey that impacts their classrooms, artistry, and careers.
Discover the experiences of our graduates through their video and written testimonials in which they reflect on how the MA program has helped shape their careers. These stories highlight the professional growth, new opportunities, and meaningful changes they’ve experienced since completing the program.
“I chose to join the MA in Studio Art program because I always wanted a high level of academic training in my own work. Secondly, as a teacher, I wanted to be able to share these skills with my own students. I respect the tradition of painting and drawing that is represented by the Florence Academy of Art.”
– Eric Alexander Santoli, MA Alumnus
“There is no other program like this for teachers to get just a taste of what true mastery of skill and development can bring to a person, can bring to a teacher, can brin to their students.”
– Randy Seely, MA Alumnus
“This experience has influenced my work both as an artist and as a teacher. I now approach my artwork from a fresh perspective and see things differently. When teaching my students, I focus strongly on the fundamentals, giving them a solid foundation for their artistic development.”
– Jordan Bryce Graves, MA Alumnus
“Am I a painter who teaches or am I a teacher who paints? I am a teacher who paints, I love to give people knowledge. I want to give you information and tools to use in your own work “
– ElizabethTucker, MA Alumna
“As an educator and artist, I wanted to develop my skills in a systematic process in classical training to help bring my own skills to a higher level and the skills of my students. I definitely use the methods taught and am much more able to communicate the skills with my students. It has given me more confidence in my own work.”
– Katherine AJ Cook, MA Alumna
“What I really liked about this program is that it is isolated to the summers, when you can dedicate yourself to the process. It is rigorous but that’s the point!”
– Lisa Schwichtenberg, MA Alumna
“After graduation, my own career as an artist and as a teacher has blossomed. I put in a lot of hard work, but this program has given me a lot of credibility in the world of art that I am a part of. I am now proud to be traveling to teach workshops across the US and Europe.”
