AINT-BAD.com Features Work by B.F.A. in Photography Major Melanie Allan Student Profile
Meet Melanie Allan
- Major/Program
- Photography
- Graduation
- April 2020
- College Activities
- Photography Collective
- Scholarships
- Vice Presidential Scholarship
- Hometown
- McDonald, Pa.
- High School
- South Fayette High School
- Dream Job
- Continuing to make art in any way that I can.
- Hobbies & Interests
- Nature walks, superhero movies and staying hydrated
"AINT-BAD is a highly-regarded online space to experience contemporary photography projects and Melanie’s feature is recognition of her hard work as a visual artist. Melanie’s exposure is much deserved and I encourage others to look at her work."
"I didn’t know how to use a digital camera aside from auto mode before coming to Point Park, so I’ve learned a lot of technical skills, some more simple than others. I’ve also been able to work on the conceptual side of things, which matters just as much as the technical aspects. I’ve learned how to market myself and how life as an artist works, and I don’t think I would know most, if not all, of those things had I not pursued an undergraduate degree at Point Park."
How was your work selected to be featured on AINT-BAD.com?
At the end of last semester, I had come to a stopping point on Passenger Seat, a body of work about my childhood experiences that I had focused on for the entire year. Instead of letting it collect dust, I figured I would try my luck and submit it for publication. AINT-BAD.com is one of my favorite websites that showcases contemporary artists and they also print a magazine. The deadline for submissions was approaching and I decided to send in my work. I did not get selected for the magazine, which I was a little bummed about, but was still happy I tried. About two weeks ago, I got an Instagram notification from AINT-BAD, and they had not only put my work on their Instagram, but they had published it on their website. I was shocked and so excited!
Tell us more about AINT-BAD.
AINT-BAD features work of contemporary artists working with photography. They publish articles on artists daily and also print a magazine each year. It's not uncommon for students to be published by them, but it doesn’t happen as often as one might think. All it takes to be published is an accepted submission, and I think many students don’t think they will get in, and never try. In my experience as an artist who is also a student, I feel kind of small in comparison to artists who I’ve discovered online or learned about in class. I’ve never submitted my work to a publication before, and I definitely felt out of place doing it. It’s still really strange to go on their website and see my name.
Why did you choose Point Park University to pursue a B.F.A. in photography?
I didn’t do much research regarding the B.F.A. photography program or Point Park University at all. That sounds really bad, but I applied because two of the people I job shadowed in high school worked with professionals who graduated from Point Park. I knew of so many Point Park graduates who landed a job in a similar field, which most definitely had an impact on my choice. If I could go back in time and do it again, I would still choose Point Park.
In what ways is your undergraduate experience preparing a pathway to your career?
I didn’t know how to use a digital camera aside from auto mode before coming to Point Park, so I’ve learned a lot of technical skills, some more simple than others. I’ve also been able to work on the conceptual side of things, which matters just as much as the technical aspects. I’ve learned how to market myself and how life as an artist works, and I don’t think I would know most, if not all, of those things had I not pursued an undergraduate degree at Point Park.
What advice do you have for a student considering Point Park?
Do your research and visit the school! Especially if you’re considering photography, or really any major, visit the facilities you’ll be spending most of your time in. Don’t stress out too much about making a decision, take time to think it through and trust your gut.
More About: scholarships, South Fayette High School, photography, faculty, School of Communication