College is for a particular kind of learner—one who thrives on memorization, conformity, and theory. It’s a left-brain world of deadlines, standardized tests, and essays written to impress a rubric.

But you? You’re wired differently. You solve problems visually. You think in shapes, colors, and movement. You get your best ideas while sketching in the wee hours of the night, not during a 9 a.m. lecture.

For many art students, this disconnect can make you feel like you’re “behind.” According to a 2025 article, “non-creative behavior is learned”, often through the structuring and constraints of conventional education that historically prioritized conformity suitable for an industrial economy.” In other words, the more time you spend in a rigid learning environment, the harder it is to keep your creative spark alive.

The thing is, you’re trying to grow in soil that doesn’t suit you. It’s like planting a sunflower in a shoebox and wondering why it’s not blooming.

So, if you’ve been wondering why college isn’t right for creative people, here’s your answer: it’s not about your ability to learn, it’s about the way you learn best.