The Rhoe Island School of Design (abbreviated as RISD, pronounced /ˈrɪzdi/) is a fine arts college located in Providence, Rhode Island. It was founded in 1877 and is currently located at the base of College Hill and contiguous with the Brown University campus. The two institutions share social, academic, and community resources and offer joint courses. RISD is considered to be one of the best fine arts schools in the nation, often sharing the spot with Cooper Union. It is commonly known as the "Harvard" of art schools and, according to a recent poll, has the highest freshman workload of any college in the United States. It is one of the most selective art schools in the nation, placing much emphasis on the applicant's portfolio, and how they accomplished RISD's infamous "hometest" — three drawing assignments.