Hey everyone, first time poster here. Was browsing around trying to get some answers towards my current situation and came across this site. I'm sure questions like this are posted constantly, but I would still like a little guidance on my current situation. I don't exactly want to be a Game Designer. More along the lines of Animator, Environment Designer, or Level Designer, but most of all 3d Modeler. I've been having a tough time finding colleges to attend in my area. There is an ITT Technical Institute nearby, but every bit I've heard about them suggest to stay away from them. My community college offers online programs for 3d Studio Max (and Game Design), but nothing on-campus; all online. I guess I would've been okay with that, but the programs don't offer degrees, just certificates. Would that even be worth the time or effort? The 3d Modeling class does offer an internship opportunity, but I'm still unsure if it would be worth it. I've checked into several Universities in my area as well and couldn't seem to find anything either. I had been thinking of attending Digipen in Redmond Washington. From what I've gather it is a very well respected school but the tuition, along with relocating would easily put me thousands of dollars in debt... Well, that's my situation. I greatly appreciate any and all advice you can offer me on this. Thanks in advance.

I recommend reading Slopers Site.

You would do well to read all 71 lessons but you can start with the game design/school relevant ones.

I went to DigiPen for programming but I do some decent artwork as well. I've seen a lot of DigiPen portfolios and was kinda saddened by them. As I always say there are good people that will work hard to be the best regardless of school, but I see a lot of good stuff from Art Institute people. See if there is one around you.