veronica
What should I do after I graduate college?
I have big dreams of becoming a professional dancer who books, tours, music videos, award shows, musicals, and any other kind of shows you can think of. I'm going to study interdisciplinary arts with specialization in arts leadership in Seattle University where I can learn about both the creative and business side of the dance industry, however I would really like to be a part of the industry as soon as possible so i'm thinking about attending auditions after I graduate. I don't know if this is smart planning for my future though because I know that in our world today, it is important to continue your education from there. However, i'm also afraid that once I'm done with school that I would be too old for the dance industry or not what people are looking for in a dancer anymore. Any advice or suggestions will be greatly appreciated. #dance #dance-education #hip-hop-dance #creative-arts #musicals
2 answers
Brian Munoz
Brian’s Answer
Hi Veronica,
I'd strongly recommend you that if you still haven't applied for college or university, and if it's within your possibilities, take a year off so you can get involved in all the subjects you are interested about, and from there you can do a better choice of career. One thing is what we imagine a career might be and another what a career actually is, and nowadays with the internet you can educate yourself and look for connections everywhere.
Better to delay your education one year that choosing a career that might dissapoint you after a year or two and that will leave you with a lot of debt.
Also, sometimes is better to chose what we have talent for rather than what we feel passionate about, and trust me, if you are good at something, you will eventually develope a huge passion for that.
Hope this helps a bit, if you have more questions feel free to ask :)
Emani Terry
Emani’s Answer
As someone who grew up knowing all my life that I wanted to become a professional dancer, I understand how it feels to become truly immersed in your passion. What I had to realize was that things will happen for you in due time, but it's all in how much you want it. It's okay to utilize other skills you have been equipped with in the mean time to prepare you for the future you truly want.
Tip 1: "Go big or go home"- Before graduation, exhaust all options by applying for positions related to your field as well as lining up auditions to have options for both. If you are fortunate to get an opportunity dancing, go with it as long as you can financially support yourself.
Tip 2: "One Door Closes, Another Opens Up" If your dreams are not coming together as quickly as you had hoped, that's okay. Simply, use your degree to lay the foundation for a steady income that showcases your skills to help support you financially. While working, take advantage of your off time to perfect and develop your craft, whether it's joining a dance company, taking master classes, etc. Eventually, you will be in the industry soon than you think.
All in all, never put all your eggs in one basket, because with such a competitive field you want to ensure you have options, but in the meantime never giving up on that dream.
Thank you for this! This was my plan, but seeing this from someone else who connects with the passion for dance is completely reassuring. I needed this as a reminder and a push to keep going. Thank you so much.
veronica