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How can I tell if I'm heading towards the right path?

Hello, I am an art studio major student, and I want to make movies, more specifically animated movies (I plan to be the next Walt Disney). However, sometimes it feels like I choose the wrong major. I have already been in this major for three years and I'm scared to think that I waisted my time. I know that there have been many successful people who've studied completely different majors, but the chances of that happening to me is a million to one. I just want to know if I am okay with where I am at and can still be successful. Can I still be achieve my dreams with an art degree?

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Heather’s Answer

Hi, Frida! I've learned over my career that time isn't wasted if you've learned something along the way and can apply it in the future. All of our experiences add to the ways we approach our lives, the decisions we make, and the things we spend our time on. Given you're probably close to completing your degree I'd say stick it out and get it done because you can always add certifications, take additional courses, or go back for grad school if that is where your career takes you. Sneha mentioned getting into specific tools that could be valuable in the work you want to do and that's a great suggestion. Sometimes the paths we're on are windy and challenging so even if it feels like you're on the wrong path you really won't know until later in life what this part of the path will mean to you. It wasn't until I was well into my career that I could look back and see how valuable all of my experiences were even though at the time I felt so much doubt and regret. The last thing I'd leave you with is don't feel you need to be the next Walt Disney. Be the first Frida and create your own amazing story. You've got this! Best of luck to you in your future.
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Kim’s Answer

Hi Frida,

You've asked the million-dollar question and gotten some good advice here. I would add a few points: first, know that you're looking far into the future and that your needs and wants are very likely to change over time. That doesn't mean you shouldn't hold onto your dreams and follow them with all your might, but that being open and flexible will serve you well.

Second, it may not be very reassuring, but you have to follow your heart. Learn to listen to it and follow it while taking care of all the practical needs that enable you to pursue your dreams. It's not always easy, but that's what it means to choose an art career--to me, anyway. Do what brings you joy.

Lastly, I echo what others have said here. Learning is never wasted. I use my art education every day, whether it's directly in pursuit of art or I'm cooking dinner. A creative education teaches you how to recognize or create and solve problems. Even in the driest of corporate gigs I've had, I've made valuable contributions because I know how to look at situations from different angles and invite others to do the same, for instance.

I hope you take full advantage of this stage of your life, when your brain is the most flexible and you're capable of learning so much. Now's the time to learn how to develop good work habits, including cultivating the habit of staying curious and becoming a lifelong learner as you discover and develop your gifts.

Wishing you the best in all your endeavors.
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Wyatt s’s Answer

Dear Frida,

I really love Walt Disney too; he is a great man and a fabulous leader. That being said, I don't want to be be the next Walt Disney, I want to be Wyatt s Miles, because that's my name and it has been written in the stars just like Walt's and just like yours. Dream Big, and think small. Dream Outside the Box, but live inside it. In other words, keep your goals Huge, but realize that every big goal is best achieved by breaking it down into small manageable chunks. Those dudes who win those hot dog eating contests don't just walk in off the street and throw down 83 hotdogs without a lot of rigorous training. (Great example right??) This other one: Dream Outside the Box, but live inside it - this means Dare to think and dream unconventionally. There is a lot of close mindedness in our world: there are opportunities Everywhere to learn and to serve. Don't let money-blindless fog your Vision. Living inside the Box means following the rules that matter. Treat others the way you would want them to treat you. Follow and live the rules that you Know are right and that are good for you. People who are not willing to govern themselves, will Never become true leaders. Amen.

All I have is an Art/Animation degree. You can do Anything, if you can first believe it.

I hope some of this will help you, Frida. I believe in you.

Sincerely,
Wyatt
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Sneha’s Answer

Hi Frida! Yes, you absolutely can still achieve your dreams with an art degree, especially if your passion is creating animated movies. Many successful animators, directors, and visual storytellers started in art, illustration, or even completely unrelated fields. What matters most is not the exact title of your major, but how you use your time, build your skills, and connect with others in the industry. If you’ve spent three years developing your creative voice, learning visual storytelling, and mastering your craft, that’s not wasted time, it’s your foundation. Start exploring animation-specific tools like Blender, Toon Boom, or Adobe After Effects, and build a portfolio or short film that showcases your vision. The path to big dreams isn’t always straight, but your passion and persistence will guide you forward. Many people wait till post-college to build a portfolio of their passion projects which may delay their entry into fields. The best piece of advice I could give you is to develop your portfolio while in college so jobs can see your passion projects and your talents. Good luck!
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