4 answers
Amelia
Student
Green Bay, Wisconsin
1
Question
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How to balance academics and the arts?
How do you balance an academic degree with an arts degree? Should it be a 50-50 balance, or should I be focusing more on one? I enjoy the arts more, but also want to make a stable living after college and don't want to invest too much in something that won't pay off.
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4 answers
Jonathan Marker, PMP
4
Answers
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Jonathan’s Answer
I followed the rule of three: develop a skillset that 1) secures your main income, 2) gives you a side hustle where you can use your creativity for extra earnings, and 3) makes you happy with your decisions.
If you're interested in web development, for example, you could earn various certifications that open up new job opportunities. For your side hustle, you might create a website or an online store on Etsy or eBay to exhibit your artwork with a design that attracts customers and lets them connect with your work before buying. Over time, this mix of professional skills and your side hustle can blend together, potentially leading to lasting financial success and personal joy through your art.
You can still choose a major that offers career stability and a minor that lets you express your artistic side. It's really smart to take a practical approach, finding a way to balance a steady income with the exciting pursuit of your passion.
If you're interested in web development, for example, you could earn various certifications that open up new job opportunities. For your side hustle, you might create a website or an online store on Etsy or eBay to exhibit your artwork with a design that attracts customers and lets them connect with your work before buying. Over time, this mix of professional skills and your side hustle can blend together, potentially leading to lasting financial success and personal joy through your art.
You can still choose a major that offers career stability and a minor that lets you express your artistic side. It's really smart to take a practical approach, finding a way to balance a steady income with the exciting pursuit of your passion.
PEG MCCLELLAN
8
Answers
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PEG’s Answer
This question frustrates me because I’ve heard it so many times from students- usually, it’s the parents who are worried that the arts won’t bring in enough money ( old thinking!)- there are more creative opportunities now than ever before in history and the salaries are phenomenal, thanks to digital technology.
I have met too many people who wanted to be a creative but became a dentist instead ( and hated it) or an accountant, or whatever-
If you want to be an artist you already are an artist! You can’t hide it, and it never goes away.
So it’s up to you; do you want to start your Art career now, or wait 20 years after you try something else that you never really wanted to do or to be?
I have met too many people who wanted to be a creative but became a dentist instead ( and hated it) or an accountant, or whatever-
If you want to be an artist you already are an artist! You can’t hide it, and it never goes away.
So it’s up to you; do you want to start your Art career now, or wait 20 years after you try something else that you never really wanted to do or to be?
Gavin Beal
Composition
3
Answers
Wilmington, North Carolina
Updated
Gavin’s Answer
A common misconception is that arts degrees and just working in arts is a shot in the dark, and that you have to be very talented and also lucky to succeed, but music is versatile! If you want, you can minor in education and become a music teacher, voice coach, or teach people how to play instruments, those are all well paying and reliable. If you want to still make your own music that would also allow you time to make extra money on the side by making music and releasing it, if you need help with that, the best recommendation I can give is DistroKid. Good luck!
Christopher Guyton
Sound Designer
2
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Balancing an academic degree with an arts degree can be a challenging task, but it ultimately depends on your personal interests, career goals, and financial considerations. Here are some factors to consider when deciding how to balance your academic and arts pursuits:
1. Passion and Interests: It's important to consider your passion and interests when choosing how to balance your academic and arts pursuits. If you enjoy the arts more and see yourself pursuing a career in that field, it may be worth dedicating more time and effort to your arts degree. If you are truly passionate about something, you will find success because you believe in it. However, if you have a strong interest in both areas, you should find a balance that allows you to explore both fields.
2. Career Goals: Consider your long-term career goals and how each degree can contribute to your desired career path. Some careers may require a specific academic degree for entry, while others may value practical experience and skills gained through an arts degree. It's important to research career options in both fields and determine how each degree can help you achieve your career goals.
1. Passion and Interests: It's important to consider your passion and interests when choosing how to balance your academic and arts pursuits. If you enjoy the arts more and see yourself pursuing a career in that field, it may be worth dedicating more time and effort to your arts degree. If you are truly passionate about something, you will find success because you believe in it. However, if you have a strong interest in both areas, you should find a balance that allows you to explore both fields.
2. Career Goals: Consider your long-term career goals and how each degree can contribute to your desired career path. Some careers may require a specific academic degree for entry, while others may value practical experience and skills gained through an arts degree. It's important to research career options in both fields and determine how each degree can help you achieve your career goals.