In the first of this two-semester capstone sequence, students work to develop their thesis exhibition, paper and portfolio from start to finish. The first semester is spent developing the thesis project via critiques, individual meetings, written assignments, and presentations. Students create a large-scale project(s) that refines their particular vision and ideas. This 6-hour class is divided into two parts – the first half is an in-class seminar where students show and discuss their projects, readings, writing processes, and the larger field, while the other half is composed of team-taught individual meetings. In addition to growing considerably in all aspects of their creative process, students are expected to develop critical dialogue to support their thesis, and develop skills to engage in discussion with others. In addition to the thesis requirements, students have additional readings, field trips, screenings, writing and assignments. This process prepares students for the transition from undergraduate studies to the professional field, and supports the development of a substantial body of work and supporting professional/critical skills.