Graduating from art school is a huge achievement, marking the start of an exciting—though sometimes intimidating—new chapter. The shift from being a student to becoming a professional artist can feel significant. As a student, you’re guided by the curriculum, instructors, and the support of your peers, but in the "real world," you’ll need to rely on your own drive to keep moving forward. It can feel a bit like stepping off a moving walkway at the airport when you're not paying attention—it’s jarring. So, what happens after you leave the studio classrooms behind? Here’s a guide to life after art school and some tips to help you navigate this new phase.