after college: need advice!

[polarqueen2]

Posted: 7/28/06 at 2:43pm

Hello everyone! I'm at a crossroads right now, considering my options and I need some advice. This year (2007) I will graduate with a degree in psychology, an path that I chose because of the instability of showbiz, but I started to realize last year that I really can't be happy without performing (however, I figured that since I only had one year left it would be silly not to finish the degree)I've decided that before I do any further studies in psych grad. school wise, that I need to take a couple years to pursue my dreams. I don't know what the best way to go about it is...I considered going for a B.A. in musical theatre at a conservatory, but I wonder if I'm too old to bother doing that (I'll be 22 in Feb). I also know of a guy whose going to London for a master's in dancing, even though it wasn't his major in college. I wonder if there's any way to get into a theatre/musical theatre master's program without having majored in it (I don't have amazingly extensive experience, but I have SOME...won a competition, perform in choir and a few shows, taking a film acting class as well as a theatre acting class, 7 years of voice). Or would it be better to just put myself out there right away, getting myself a professional headshot, auditioning for agencies, etc.? I was in the closing night of les mis on broadway (they invited students to audition back in 2003) and one piece of advice one of the directors gave us was, if this is your dream, don't wait until your like 28 to get started, because most of the people who make it start at your age...so I'm kind of at a loss as to what to do. It's ashame to feel like your over the hill at 21 though! lol, what do you guys think?

[gustof777]

Posted: 7/28/06 at 4:34pm

I wouldn't feel over the hill at all. I would definitley check out some Grad programs. Not sure for Musical theater grad programs but I know there are many out there (and many acting grad programs that have musical theater influences) and I know that there are many in the programs who got their undergrad in something not theater related. I would say go and train and really learn your craft and see if you like training...if it's not for you than go out and try. Best of Luck!

[stella985]

Posted: 7/28/06 at 7:07pm

If you're interested in going to grad school for acting, it's fine that you didn't major in it at college. Grad Acting programs (including the top ones) accept people who majored in everything from english to economics. The biggest thing they look for is that you're serious.

[suchclumsytime]

Posted: 7/29/06 at 9:21am

If you still have one year left, and have room in your schedule to take some theatre classes, do it! Also, audition for department productions, or, frankly, any productions going on around or on campus. Don't be afraid of seeking the advice of some Theatre department faculty members, either.

Since you're still not sure what you want to do (I think), just make sure that you leave your options open. In other words, don't let your psych grades slip, but also make sure that you use this year to take some more theatre classes.

I'm starting my second year of college in September, and I really have no clue what I want to do with myself. I feel for you!

[zanyz23]

Posted: 8/1/06 at 5:25pm

I totally understand your problem, its the kind of thing that I see myself going through years down the road. The good thing about musical theater is that you can preform almost anywhere. Community theater is great. But if you are set on bigger things, then I would go for it.
Updated On: 8/1/06 at 05:25 PM

[ZONEACE]

Posted: 8/2/06 at 3:07am

yeah, if you can do both, do community theatre on the side.