This essay explores the tension between artistic freedom and institutional constraints within the context of a Fine Arts education, focusing on the work of Lee Lozano as a lens for examination. Lozano's radical rejection of societal norms and artistic conventions, epitomized by her "Dropout Piece" and "Boycott Piece," serves as a backdrop for the author's introspective critique of academic requirements. Through an analysis of Lozano's paintings and conceptual pieces, as well as her systematic rejection of the art worlds expectations on her, the essay delves into themes of resistance, refusal, and the inherent critique of institutional structures. The author reflects on the challenge of aligning her artistic practice with the academic expectations, questioning the notion of "the project" within the context of exploratory art making. Ultimately, the essay attempts to underscore the importance of preserving artistic freedom within educational settings while grappling with the complexities of institutional frameworks.