Studying illustration?

[Empuska]

Ok, since my country doesn't offer a special education including this subject only (it's always, ALWAYS united with graphical designing), and since I have a possibility to study such subject abroad, I would like to ask something about it (some silly ones too). Sorry, if this in wrong section, but I didn't know, where else to put this

First of all: the style. Does everyone need to have a unique style, when applied to study illustration? I have been browsing British schools about illustration and to be honest, nearly everyone have their own thing. And since I don't have it yet, and quite like, won't have even then, when I'm applying there, so how the system usually works? Best schools definitely pick the most unique ones, but then the rest of the schools, are their intention to educate those, who already have a style or to mold from those suspicious looking styles a strong tool of self expression?

Second: how unique the style has to be to survive in this industry? Or do you have to work for it so long that's it enough interesting and unique?

Third and last: How much the style can vary? And about the tools? I mean, of course, tool/medium and way to use it is the trademark, but is it necessarily a bad thing, if you style vary? How about the tools?

Thanks for your time. (:

[Maxine Schacker]

Some schools include basic training as part of the diploma or degree. They'll be looking for potential, interest, effort and many will want to see that you've been thinking and working at this and have some handle on designing a page and basic drawing. Some schools want you to apply after you've developed a solid foundation.

Your question is very hard to answer because there is so much variation in what schools are looking for! Style generally develops as your skills develop.