On Thursday, a soft-spoken Sacramento State alumnus, James Angello, shared his graduate studies experience with students on campus.

Angello is a recent graduate from the University of California, Davis, where he earned his Master of Fine Arts degree.

Before the lecture began, the Form Art Club that invited Angello and hosted the event gave a disclaimer that it doesn’t endorse or oppose UC Davis in any way.

Angello provided attendees with a personal account of his experience in a conversational approach for those considering pursuing a master’s degree.

Susan Harrell, a senior psychology major, said this was her first lecture and that she wasn’t sure what to expect. Harell said that art therapy is an important part of her field.

“The lecture was good and I’m quite excited now,” Harrell said, “even though it’s not my field.”

Ricardo Frias, a senior art studio major with an emphasis in electronic art, said that before the lecture, he wasn’t considering graduate school, but he is reconsidering the option.

“[Angello] gave us a very good experience of the ups and downs and of what to expect,” Frias said.

Angello advised students to be prepared for the hardest two years of their lives and to go experience the world.

Angello said to go somewhere that is really exciting and maybe a little scary, and to reach beyond your comfort zone.

“Go to New York City,” Angello said. “If you can.”

Angello will be featured in a group show in Texas at the end of March at the Nancy Fyfe Cardozier Gallery at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin. To view Angello’s work, visit his website at JamieAngello.com.