6 answers
Izzy
Student
Billings, Montana
1
Question
Asked
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What can I do to be successful if I want to persue an acting career?
I'm currently a Senior in high school deciding on what I want to do after I graduate; I think I've decided on taking generals in my hometown before hopefully transferring to the University of Montana to get a minor in Theater. I've learned through some research that getting a career as an Actor is a challenge, so is this the best option for me to do, or should I continue persuing acting as a hobby?
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6 answers
Swati Gupta
Strategy & Operations Enablement
7
Answers
Spring, Texas
Updated
Swati’s Answer
I don’t do acting for a living, so I can’t speak to details of that path. But one thing I’ve seen again and again, across many careers, is that persistence never disappoints. The people who keep showing up, learning, and putting themselves out there are the ones who eventually find their footing.
I also agree with the advice others have shared: it’s completely valid to keep acting on the side while pursuing another major. That approach gives you stability while still letting you explore something you care about. If acting is meant to be more, staying persistent will help you discover that over time.
If acting matters to you, keep at it. At some point, something will click, maybe not exactly how you imagined, but in a way that leads you where you’re meant to be.
I also agree with the advice others have shared: it’s completely valid to keep acting on the side while pursuing another major. That approach gives you stability while still letting you explore something you care about. If acting is meant to be more, staying persistent will help you discover that over time.
If acting matters to you, keep at it. At some point, something will click, maybe not exactly how you imagined, but in a way that leads you where you’re meant to be.
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
296
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
Your plan is really smart. Taking general classes in your hometown saves money and lets you build skills. Minoring in theater gives you formal training without limiting your options. An acting career isn't about the degree name; it’s about training, experience, and persistence. Classes help with technique and confidence, but the key is auditioning, performing, and handling rejection while trying again.
If you want to pursue acting, treat it as both a craft and a business. Audition for community theater, student films, and local productions. Build your resume slowly and learn how the industry works. It’s also wise to keep another job or area of study for stability. Many actors do this while following their passion. You don’t have to decide now if acting will be your lifelong career. You can give it a serious try, see how it feels, and make adjustments as needed. It’s better to try and learn than to always wonder "what if."
If you want to pursue acting, treat it as both a craft and a business. Audition for community theater, student films, and local productions. Build your resume slowly and learn how the industry works. It’s also wise to keep another job or area of study for stability. Many actors do this while following their passion. You don’t have to decide now if acting will be your lifelong career. You can give it a serious try, see how it feels, and make adjustments as needed. It’s better to try and learn than to always wonder "what if."
Tracy Reinhardt
Human Resources / Corporate training / Preventative health
8
Answers
Land O' Lakes, Florida
Updated
Tracy’s Answer
Hi there!
It seems like you are curious about exploring options in the arts while being realistic that acting is a difficult profession to be in. I want to share that while a degree in acting can be helpful, it's not necessary to become an actor. The key is to keep acting and practicing. I have my minor in theatre arts.
Even if you don't get a role, try learning about stagecraft, costumes, makeup, and directing. These skills can be useful if you need to move props, create your character's look, or do your own makeup. Plus, understanding directing can improve your stage presence.
Read as many playbooks as you can and join theatre clubs or local community groups. This will help you grow and connect with others.
The competition can be tough, so it's important to build resilience and confidence. Reading about different acting techniques and actor biographies can be inspiring.
Although I'm not in the acting field full-time, I've enjoyed auditioning and meeting new people. I keep acting as a hobby while exploring other interests. Stay curious and keep going!
It seems like you are curious about exploring options in the arts while being realistic that acting is a difficult profession to be in. I want to share that while a degree in acting can be helpful, it's not necessary to become an actor. The key is to keep acting and practicing. I have my minor in theatre arts.
Even if you don't get a role, try learning about stagecraft, costumes, makeup, and directing. These skills can be useful if you need to move props, create your character's look, or do your own makeup. Plus, understanding directing can improve your stage presence.
Read as many playbooks as you can and join theatre clubs or local community groups. This will help you grow and connect with others.
The competition can be tough, so it's important to build resilience and confidence. Reading about different acting techniques and actor biographies can be inspiring.
Although I'm not in the acting field full-time, I've enjoyed auditioning and meeting new people. I keep acting as a hobby while exploring other interests. Stay curious and keep going!
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2571
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know you have interest in acting.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Attend acting classes to learn the knowledge and skills
2. Join drama club in schools
3. Explore the entry criteria of performing arts in colleges. Work hard to meet the criteria
4. Explore performing opportunities, attend castings.
5. Watch more dramas and movies
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Attend acting classes to learn the knowledge and skills
2. Join drama club in schools
3. Explore the entry criteria of performing arts in colleges. Work hard to meet the criteria
4. Explore performing opportunities, attend castings.
5. Watch more dramas and movies
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Nehad Tadros
7
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Nehad’s Answer
Read and research more to learn the pros an cons before you decide. Look for a mentor and ask them about each role to understand more if this is something you would like.
Jasmine Madrigal (De La Garza)
Human Resources
4
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Jasmine’s Answer
I think it is always a good idea to have a back-up plan. Keep it as a hobby and if it turns into something more, awesome. If not, you have your back-up plan to rely on as well. Good luck!