to be or not to be an artist!
Wed, 11/03/2009 - 12:22 | by Who_is_hu
I could really use some 3rd party help with this. Ok, so i've been thinking about this for a long time but basically I really want to be an actress (stage) and get a Bachelor's in Fine Arts in theater but the thing is that when I graduate, will i have a job? People tell me it's like audition after audition in real life and you might end up waiting tables. I'm willing to sacrifice some for my art but I don't want to be a starving artist! Also, my parents are worried about my career path because this would be pretty unstable. I guess I could study something like law or maybe psychology, but I know I'll miss acting.... Any advice?
Me too
Wed, 10/02/2010 - 13:15 | by Joshua CHello Who_is_hu. I want to be an actor(for camera) too. And i fear i can't get a proper job with a degree in Arts. But it's my dream. :)
Reply: to be or not to be an artist!
Thu, 12/03/2009 - 14:46 | by Natsuko TohyamaThanks for posting something so honest, Who_is_hu. We actually come into contact with many people who are in your shoes. I suppose one way to phrase your question is, "passion version stability".
Some individuals I have met choose to balance their passion and need for stability. That is, they become teachers and performers. Some choose to become professors at universities because they can teach and perform while being paid a good wage. Some become arts administrators/managers. Others decide to have two careers, working as a fitness instructor during some days of the week but leaving time open for dancing.
Similarly, some students balance passion and stability in university. For example, you could apply for universities with strong theater and psychology programs (eg. Northwestern University). For many universities, you may be able to earn a BFA/BA or double major in theater and another subject within one degree. In many cases, you can enter as an undecided student and choose your major after 1 or 2 years.
Of course, there are people who choose art completely or another career altogether, and that is fine as well.