18 answers
Christina
Student
Saint Johns, Florida
1
Question
Asked
1691 views
How should I choose a career that matches my personality?
I love singing and dancing and acting is what I've always wanted to do, but the acting business is hard and i don't know if i would make it. #film-acting #performing-arts #career #art
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18 answers
Krissy Leehane
Technical Writer
3
Answers
United States
Updated
Krissy’s Answer
When I first started college, I had trouble deciding between pursuing my love of acting, my love of literature and writing, my love of art history, and my love of helping others. Part of the way that I made a decision regarding my college major was to write down the elements of these options that really made me feel fulfilled and happy. I decided on a major in Psychology because my fulfillment and joy in helping others outweighed the others. I continued on to pursue a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
However, I want to point out that, for most people nowadays, career paths are not linear. Mine certainly hasn't been. I no longer have a career in any sort of psychological field, but rather I am currently a technical writer - tapping into my love of writing. I realized that while I could probably "make it" in the work of marriage and family therapy, there were elements of it that weren't exactly a right fit for me. So now I am pursuing one of the other options I had on the table when I was deciding on my college major over 20 years ago.
Long story short, if you decide to try your hand at making a career out of your love of singing, dancing, and acting, do it wholeheartedly. You have the option to change the direction of your career at any time, for any reason. Leave your horizons open to everything you love. Shift your perspective to a new horizon if you feel the need for a change.
However, I want to point out that, for most people nowadays, career paths are not linear. Mine certainly hasn't been. I no longer have a career in any sort of psychological field, but rather I am currently a technical writer - tapping into my love of writing. I realized that while I could probably "make it" in the work of marriage and family therapy, there were elements of it that weren't exactly a right fit for me. So now I am pursuing one of the other options I had on the table when I was deciding on my college major over 20 years ago.
Long story short, if you decide to try your hand at making a career out of your love of singing, dancing, and acting, do it wholeheartedly. You have the option to change the direction of your career at any time, for any reason. Leave your horizons open to everything you love. Shift your perspective to a new horizon if you feel the need for a change.
Gretchen Hals
Manager
2
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Gretchen’s Answer
Good question! I would recommend taking the StrengthsFinder assessment and seeing what careers fit your strengths. Also the Myers-Briggs personality types assessment can help you learn what careers others with your similar personality traits go into. If you are in school I would highly recommend seeing if they offer any career counseling or interest inventory assessments. Good luck!
Strengths finder is a great way to understand what fits you
Adele Suttle
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1616
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Christina, would you consider a career as a Broadway Director?
Imagine yourself sitting in a darkened theater. You watch as the actors in the play flawlessly deliver each of their lines and hit their cues every time, without fail. You're captivated as the story unfolds before your eyes. Theater directors are the professionals that are mostly responsible for pulling these types of productions together.
FINAL CURTIN CALL, PLACES EVERYONE
Theater directors are responsible for overseeing nearly every part of a theater production, from beginning to end. Being a theater director is often a very difficult job, and it requires excellent communication skills and the ability to work under pressure. While other theater professionals typically focus on one or two elements of a production, you'll typically need to concern yourself with nearly all aspects. You will often be responsible for supervising and overseeing other members of the cast and crew, for instance. As theater director you will usually work very long hours, acting as a leader for other members of theater production. In many cases, a director’s work will begin before rehearsals begin and well after when rehearsals over.
One of your duties as a theater director might be to choose which plays will be performed. In order to do this, you'll usually read through several scripts before choosing the best ones. As the director you will also be in charge of auditioning and hiring actors and assigning parts. In small theaters, directors might be in charge of this entire process, but in larger theaters, they may have help. For instance, they may be assisted by an assistant director or even a casting director. Rehearsals are also a major responsibility of a theater director. It is often the theater director that is charged with organizing regular rehearsals. These rehearsals are extremely important because they give the actors chances to practice their lines and act out their parts. During these rehearsals, you will often help guide the actors in their roles and possibly instruct them on their lines, movements, and facial expressions. Among all the other duties and responsibilities, as the theater director you will also have a number of other jobs and responsibilities, including set approve and costume designs. Small theater companies might also place the director in charge of promoting a play or performing other unrelated tasks, such as keeping the books.
Many would think that opening night is finally a chance for a theater director to sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of his hard labor. In some cases, this might be correct, but not always. It is often up to the theater director to try and fix anything that goes wrong on opening night or any other night that a production is performed in front of an audience.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Motivated by strong passions for theater and art, theater directors enter their craft from different routes. Aspiring directors may begin by accumulating experiences in school productions or community theaters as actors, crew members or budding playwrights. By assisting productions, it's possible to work toward a position as an assistant director and to begin building a reputation. A good resume of these experiences helps one advance along the more formal route toward a bachelor's degree program in theater. The majority of theater directors typically start their careers with a bachelor's degree in theater or a related field. There are a number of quality drama and theater schools across the country. In general, theater directors should have a good grasp of every aspect of theater, from playwriting to acting to set design. Because of this, many aspiring theater directors will usually take as many different theater courses as possible.
Some performing arts schools also offer master's degree programs in directing theater productions as well. These usually take a few additional years to complete, and they enable students to focus on giving actors and theater crew members instructions and guidance. Those pursuing theater director careers should also make sure that they have plenty of "hands-on" experience in a theater setting. For most, this means being involved in their schools' theater programs or community theater programs. While a sound education is a great way to start a theater director career, nothing beats real-world experience. Look for acting schools to suit your needs.
SALARY OUTLOOK
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary of theater directors in 2019 was $64,000. There are several different elements that might influence a theater director's salary, however, such as the size, location, and popularity of the theater where the director works. For instance, a theater director working in a Broadway theater house that is packed every night will usually makes $150,000. However, directors of hit musicals may earn much higher than these figures. The bureau states that the highest-paid directors working on Broadway may receive royalties and a negotiated percentage of gross box-office receipts.
INTERNSHIPS • https://www.broadwayleague.com/about/internships-jobs/
The Broadway League supports a year-round internship program with positions available for the fall, spring, and summer. All internships are part-time and range from 10-24 hours per week in the office. Hours are flexible. Interns gain valuable experience by working closely with League staff members and, when possible, attend meetings, seminars, and conferences. Interns are paid New York State minimum wage, currently $15.00 per hour. Course credit is also available for those interested. The Broadway League encourages diverse internship candidates.
The Broadway League internships are offered for:
• Fall (Approximately September – December)
• Spring (Approximately January – May)
• Summer (Approximately June – August)
Hope this was Helpful Christina
Imagine yourself sitting in a darkened theater. You watch as the actors in the play flawlessly deliver each of their lines and hit their cues every time, without fail. You're captivated as the story unfolds before your eyes. Theater directors are the professionals that are mostly responsible for pulling these types of productions together.
FINAL CURTIN CALL, PLACES EVERYONE
Theater directors are responsible for overseeing nearly every part of a theater production, from beginning to end. Being a theater director is often a very difficult job, and it requires excellent communication skills and the ability to work under pressure. While other theater professionals typically focus on one or two elements of a production, you'll typically need to concern yourself with nearly all aspects. You will often be responsible for supervising and overseeing other members of the cast and crew, for instance. As theater director you will usually work very long hours, acting as a leader for other members of theater production. In many cases, a director’s work will begin before rehearsals begin and well after when rehearsals over.
One of your duties as a theater director might be to choose which plays will be performed. In order to do this, you'll usually read through several scripts before choosing the best ones. As the director you will also be in charge of auditioning and hiring actors and assigning parts. In small theaters, directors might be in charge of this entire process, but in larger theaters, they may have help. For instance, they may be assisted by an assistant director or even a casting director. Rehearsals are also a major responsibility of a theater director. It is often the theater director that is charged with organizing regular rehearsals. These rehearsals are extremely important because they give the actors chances to practice their lines and act out their parts. During these rehearsals, you will often help guide the actors in their roles and possibly instruct them on their lines, movements, and facial expressions. Among all the other duties and responsibilities, as the theater director you will also have a number of other jobs and responsibilities, including set approve and costume designs. Small theater companies might also place the director in charge of promoting a play or performing other unrelated tasks, such as keeping the books.
Many would think that opening night is finally a chance for a theater director to sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of his hard labor. In some cases, this might be correct, but not always. It is often up to the theater director to try and fix anything that goes wrong on opening night or any other night that a production is performed in front of an audience.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Motivated by strong passions for theater and art, theater directors enter their craft from different routes. Aspiring directors may begin by accumulating experiences in school productions or community theaters as actors, crew members or budding playwrights. By assisting productions, it's possible to work toward a position as an assistant director and to begin building a reputation. A good resume of these experiences helps one advance along the more formal route toward a bachelor's degree program in theater. The majority of theater directors typically start their careers with a bachelor's degree in theater or a related field. There are a number of quality drama and theater schools across the country. In general, theater directors should have a good grasp of every aspect of theater, from playwriting to acting to set design. Because of this, many aspiring theater directors will usually take as many different theater courses as possible.
Some performing arts schools also offer master's degree programs in directing theater productions as well. These usually take a few additional years to complete, and they enable students to focus on giving actors and theater crew members instructions and guidance. Those pursuing theater director careers should also make sure that they have plenty of "hands-on" experience in a theater setting. For most, this means being involved in their schools' theater programs or community theater programs. While a sound education is a great way to start a theater director career, nothing beats real-world experience. Look for acting schools to suit your needs.
SALARY OUTLOOK
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary of theater directors in 2019 was $64,000. There are several different elements that might influence a theater director's salary, however, such as the size, location, and popularity of the theater where the director works. For instance, a theater director working in a Broadway theater house that is packed every night will usually makes $150,000. However, directors of hit musicals may earn much higher than these figures. The bureau states that the highest-paid directors working on Broadway may receive royalties and a negotiated percentage of gross box-office receipts.
INTERNSHIPS • https://www.broadwayleague.com/about/internships-jobs/
The Broadway League supports a year-round internship program with positions available for the fall, spring, and summer. All internships are part-time and range from 10-24 hours per week in the office. Hours are flexible. Interns gain valuable experience by working closely with League staff members and, when possible, attend meetings, seminars, and conferences. Interns are paid New York State minimum wage, currently $15.00 per hour. Course credit is also available for those interested. The Broadway League encourages diverse internship candidates.
The Broadway League internships are offered for:
• Fall (Approximately September – December)
• Spring (Approximately January – May)
• Summer (Approximately June – August)
Hope this was Helpful Christina
Matthew Mesa
Supply Chain
1
Answer
Gilbert, Arizona
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
I think whenever possible you should try to follow you passion. You have to believe in yourself and you don't want to regret not trying. I agree with other's on leveraging Strength Finder as there are a lot of opportunities out there to leverage those passions in other fields. Good Luck!
GANGA SIVARAMASUBRAMANIAN
Sr.Manager IT
2
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
GANGA’s Answer
Trust what you can do and do it. There is always success if you believe you can do it. I would also suggest what I have learnt from some of friends it first try to get a job part time that can help your living while you also strive to succeed in your ambition. This will remove the fear of failure as you still have a source of income to sustain your living.
Julissa Porras
Data Analyst
4
Answers
San José, Costa Rica
Updated
Julissa’s Answer
Hi Christina, Have you searched online to get Acting Career Information? I don't think becoming an Actress is that hard if you go for it.
I found some important qualities for Actors: Creativity, Memorization skills, Persistence, Physical stamina, Reading skills & Speaking skills.
And also I found some careers related to Actors:
Announcers present music, news, and sports and may provide commentary or interview guests about these or other important topics. Some act as masters of ceremonies (emcees) or disc jockeys (DJs) at weddings, parties, or clubs.
Dancers and choreographers use dance performances to express ideas and stories. There are many types of dance, such as ballet, tango, modern dance, tap, and jazz.
Film and video editors and camera operators manipulate moving images that entertain or inform an audience.
Multimedia artists and animators create animation and visual effects for television, movies, video games, and other forms of media.
Musicians and singers play instruments or sing for live audiences and in recording studios.
Producers and directors create motion pictures, television shows, live theater, commercials, and other performing arts productions. They interpret a writer's script to entertain or inform an audience.
So ask yourself which career you would feel better at and start looking online for opportunities.
I found some important qualities for Actors: Creativity, Memorization skills, Persistence, Physical stamina, Reading skills & Speaking skills.
And also I found some careers related to Actors:
Announcers present music, news, and sports and may provide commentary or interview guests about these or other important topics. Some act as masters of ceremonies (emcees) or disc jockeys (DJs) at weddings, parties, or clubs.
Dancers and choreographers use dance performances to express ideas and stories. There are many types of dance, such as ballet, tango, modern dance, tap, and jazz.
Film and video editors and camera operators manipulate moving images that entertain or inform an audience.
Multimedia artists and animators create animation and visual effects for television, movies, video games, and other forms of media.
Musicians and singers play instruments or sing for live audiences and in recording studios.
Producers and directors create motion pictures, television shows, live theater, commercials, and other performing arts productions. They interpret a writer's script to entertain or inform an audience.
So ask yourself which career you would feel better at and start looking online for opportunities.
Andy Dahl
Finance / Accounting
5
Answers
Plymouth, Minnesota
Updated
Andy’s Answer
Christina, you and I share a passion for the arts! I knew early on in my life that I would always work to follow that passion in one form or another, but I did choose to make it a hobby rather than a career. I don't think there's a right answer to your question, and you've certainly brought up some valid points about it being sometimes difficult to break into the industry and build a successful, fulfilling and financially rewarding career. While in college, I learned that I had some other passions as well - and that accounting and finance was something that I not only was interested in, but I was good at it too. It came naturally. It's funny because I often feel like I'm living a dual life. I have had people often question how I can be an accountant AND an actor/performer because they seem so different. The truth is that I find balance in tapping into both of those interests and skillsets, and it allows me to use both the left and right side of my brain. Furthermore, one of my biggest passions is leading through building relationships and interacting with people - I get to do this on both sides of the fence. Best of luck to you in your career path, but rest assured you will find a way to follow your passion even if you choose to be open to exploring other hidden talents or career potential.
Larry Harsch
Purchasing Manager
6
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Larry’s Answer
This is interesting. My daughter was big in musical theater in High School and along with a friend, wanted to pursue it at the next level. The first thing is that you have to decide what you want to do, be it musical theater, stage acting, etc. The next step is to work on your skills, be it singing, dancing, acting (triple threat). This would normally be done through classes and there are many offered including over summer (under normal times) by local theater companies. I also recommend you read books on life in theater. What may seem like a glam life, definitely has things that you should consider. Next is looking at colleges that you might be able to get into that are strong in the area you wish to go. My daughter started off in college and decided it was not for her. Her friend meanwhile is in New York, writing and directing (and acting) in smaller plays, looking to make a break. It looks like she is headed for more of a writer role. Good luck.
Olga Serrano-Rosario
World Citizen
3
Answers
Ponce, Puerto Rico
Updated
Olga’s Answer
Christina, as you mentioned, dancing , singing and acting are things that you love to do. Your big question is, will you make it? I invite you to explore what does "will I make it" means.
In these days, it is hard to find any job, included to find a job in the field of study. For example, I am a believer that one should work in something that makes one feel joy. So having a job where I can contribute, where I can provide advise and knowledge and have the opportunity to help shape someone, that will be "making it" form me.
So, understand what will it take for you to say, I made it. Try to chose things that will fall into your control.
In these days, it is hard to find any job, included to find a job in the field of study. For example, I am a believer that one should work in something that makes one feel joy. So having a job where I can contribute, where I can provide advise and knowledge and have the opportunity to help shape someone, that will be "making it" form me.
So, understand what will it take for you to say, I made it. Try to chose things that will fall into your control.
rita reis
2
Answers
Updated
rita’s Answer
I would suggest that you follow your heart and chose your career based on your personality, if you like arts, cinema, theatre, dancing, singing, go for it.
even if it is hard, if we think everything is hard in life, but we should be able to chose what we want and according to what we feel is our life purpose. I really think we can be successful if we have passion for what we do, even if it seems a hard area or an area where you can t make that much money. Follow your heart and dreams.
Another thing, nothing in life is permanent, so im sure you will find various interests during your life and honestly we can do and achieve everything, as long as we have passion.
I also have a passion for cinema an theatre, and i work in the finance world, as im passionate about working with people and im passionate about the corporate world, so i work in finance and i have theatre and cinema as hobbies. Do whatever makes you happy and fullfilled.
try to attend theatre plays and cinema and singing classes
try to find a mentor to help you
even if it is hard, if we think everything is hard in life, but we should be able to chose what we want and according to what we feel is our life purpose. I really think we can be successful if we have passion for what we do, even if it seems a hard area or an area where you can t make that much money. Follow your heart and dreams.
Another thing, nothing in life is permanent, so im sure you will find various interests during your life and honestly we can do and achieve everything, as long as we have passion.
I also have a passion for cinema an theatre, and i work in the finance world, as im passionate about working with people and im passionate about the corporate world, so i work in finance and i have theatre and cinema as hobbies. Do whatever makes you happy and fullfilled.
rita recommends the following next steps:
Kathy Porter
Learning Experience Producer
9
Answers
Arvada, Colorado
Updated
Kathy’s Answer
Register with your local American Job Center. They have special programs for students who are doing career search as well as job opportunities that might be of interest to you. They offer support through job postings, job search workshops, and job fairs.
You can go to sites like www.careeronestop.org to find information on career exploration, training, and jobs. This site has tons of great information as you begin your search. You can look at different careers and what it takes for you to receive training, watch videos on different job types, and get questions answered.
You can also go to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics at https://www.bls.gov/audience/jobseekers.htm to look at various occupations and learn about the current and future jobs outlook, advancement and training requirements, employment, salary, and a 10 year outlook for those occupations. There are also lots of other topics to explore on this page that will give you great information to help you get started.
Good Luck!
You can go to sites like www.careeronestop.org to find information on career exploration, training, and jobs. This site has tons of great information as you begin your search. You can look at different careers and what it takes for you to receive training, watch videos on different job types, and get questions answered.
You can also go to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics at https://www.bls.gov/audience/jobseekers.htm to look at various occupations and learn about the current and future jobs outlook, advancement and training requirements, employment, salary, and a 10 year outlook for those occupations. There are also lots of other topics to explore on this page that will give you great information to help you get started.
Good Luck!
Alison Warren
Academic Administration
57
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Alison’s Answer
Hi Christina,
If you love performing arts, there are a lot of paths you can take besides singing, acting, or directing. I’d suggest getting involved with clubs at your school or finding an internship or volunteer position with a local theatre. You’ll have a chance to explore more types of positions. It sounds like you’ve checked out acting, so try your hand at (just for example) casting, or even marketing a production. A friend of mine majored in playwriting, but tried some stage managing during college, and ended up finding and enjoying a job in costume production. Sometimes it’s hard to tell how well you’ll fit into something until you experience it. If you love acting, fantastic! Stay involved with it, but explore other things too! You’ll find your path.
Good luck with your exploration. :)
If you love performing arts, there are a lot of paths you can take besides singing, acting, or directing. I’d suggest getting involved with clubs at your school or finding an internship or volunteer position with a local theatre. You’ll have a chance to explore more types of positions. It sounds like you’ve checked out acting, so try your hand at (just for example) casting, or even marketing a production. A friend of mine majored in playwriting, but tried some stage managing during college, and ended up finding and enjoying a job in costume production. Sometimes it’s hard to tell how well you’ll fit into something until you experience it. If you love acting, fantastic! Stay involved with it, but explore other things too! You’ll find your path.
Good luck with your exploration. :)
Winson Ho
IT Manager
4
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Winson’s Answer
Hi Christina,
If that is what you really want to do, you should go and do it. Be confident and work hard to make it happen. You never know until you try.
Good luck !
If that is what you really want to do, you should go and do it. Be confident and work hard to make it happen. You never know until you try.
Good luck !
Rachel Wyatt
Human Resources
3
Answers
Randolph, New Jersey
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
Believe in yourself! Success in any industry requires hard work, but lots of people make careers in the arts - think about all of the jobs that are behind the scenes as well - a lot goes into the production of plays, TV, movies, etc.
Jodi Gottlieb, CPA
Assurance Associate at PwC
11
Answers
Updated
Jodi’s Answer
Hi Christina! To help align my career with my passions, I made a list of my Personal Values, and then prioritized them for most important to least important. Values can be anything such as family, friends, wealth, community, power, authenticity, independence, love etc. These values change throughout your life based on your circumstances and experiences. I would try to rank your top 3 or 5 values and brainstorm professions or companies that align with your values. Once you align your career with your values, you can really become successful because you bring your whole self to work! It takes a lot of practice, but I think it was some of the best advice I have received. I have made choices and career decisions based on whether or not they aligned with my core values which helps guide me.
Rebecca Tabbert
Program Manager and Engineer
4
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Here's a free MyerBriggs test (16 personalities) that includes some insights related to your personality and and career: https://www.16personalities.com/
Its quick, easy and very enlightening :)
Its quick, easy and very enlightening :)
Dalia Massri
Medical Affairs Specialist
1
Answer
Newport Beach, California
Updated
Dalia’s Answer
Great question! A question I found myself asking a number of times. Ask yourself, what makes you happy? What kind of work environment do you enjoy? Who do you want to be? I personally have taken a number of personality type tests to help guide me.
Useful Personality type assessments:
1. Myers-Briggs personality type assessment
2. The Career Personality Profiler is a comprehensive, scientifically validated career test that measures both your interests and your personality traits so you can find the right career for you. Based on the robust Holland Code and Big Five theories.
I took the Myers-Briggs personality type assessment. I recommend taking it multiple times. I found my answers varied depending on where I was in life. It is not the absolute path in my opinion, but it is a great start to a path of self discovery. Also, read self help books to see what resonates with you.
Best of luck, you got this!
Useful Personality type assessments:
1. Myers-Briggs personality type assessment
2. The Career Personality Profiler is a comprehensive, scientifically validated career test that measures both your interests and your personality traits so you can find the right career for you. Based on the robust Holland Code and Big Five theories.
I took the Myers-Briggs personality type assessment. I recommend taking it multiple times. I found my answers varied depending on where I was in life. It is not the absolute path in my opinion, but it is a great start to a path of self discovery. Also, read self help books to see what resonates with you.
Best of luck, you got this!
Ron Melvin Dela Cruz
Customer Service Representative
3
Answers
Parañaque, Metro Manila, Philippines
Updated
Ron Melvin’s Answer
If that is something that you really wanted to do then I think you should really go for it. When you are really passionate about something, you should put your heart on it all the time. Always remember that the road to success is a rough one, there will be rejections and failure. If you love something, you will always choose to stand up every time you fall. Always keep in mind that we never lose or fail, we only learn. Keep that fire burning within and someday, I know for sure that you will become successful on your chosen field.