How important is high school art class for a non-art major?

I'm no Picasso but I'm thinking of taking art next year. Is it worth it to try something new like this, even if I’m not going into an art-related field? Could this be a fun way to show I'm well-rounded, or just a GPA risk?

While being 'well-rounded' isn't the primary target for top colleges, it’s beneficial to show that you are willing to step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself with new experiences. Taking an art class can definitely be a fun way to explore a different skillset and potentially discover a new hobby or interest.

Even if you're not aiming to be an art major, showing that you have a breadth of interests can contribute positively to your application. Colleges appreciate students who are intellectually curious and willing to try new things. This can also be a good way to balance out your schedule if you have many academically rigorous courses.

As for your GPA, this is a legitimate consideration. If you believe that you can handle the workload and maintain a strong GPA, taking an art class can be a good idea. However, if you have concerns that it might detract from your academic performance in other areas, you might want to weigh the pros and cons. Remember, it’s always about balance.

Taking an art class for the genuine interest in it and the experience it provides is commendable. If you do decide to take it, you could talk about your experience in your application, especially if you find a way to connect it to your main academic interests or extracurricular activities, thereby demonstrating interdisciplinary learning.