I'm thinking of going to CalArts

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I know I'm a freshman, but my main goal for college is CalArts. My dad said he applied but didn't get in. I heard it's really hard, so I'm focusing on improving my art so I can have a higher chance of getting in.
My dad even said it's like the Harvard of art schools.
But if I don't get in, can anyone give me any recommendations on other art schools is California? I'm mainly focusing on animating and digital art here.

I am glad you have a goal! Definitely, make sure you practice and get a portfolio of your work to make sure of it. Look into other colleges for what you are focusing in. Make sure to apply to at least 5 or more colleges so you have an option. Visit the schools even as a freshman it is not too early!

I've heard good things about San Francisco State's humanities program, which also includes visual arts. Much of that is hearsay from half a decade ago, however, so take from it what you will. Academy of Arts is also quite prestigious, though heinously expensive - as with applying to any college, I would make sure you have the proper financial support.

While it's good that you're thinking about higher education now, you shouldn't do so at the expense of your art. Street wisdom claims that you don't attend art school to improve your art so much as you attend art school to network with professionals, and there's a grain of truth in that. In either case, I'd recommend you focus on your craft first and foremost. You still have a couple years before you need to settle (even if temporarily) into a field and start researching potential campuses.