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How did you continue to pursue such a difficult career with everyone telling you to “have a realistic plan”?

I’m still a freshman in high school but acting is my passion and I’ve never been more sure of wanting to do something for the rest of my life so I just want to know. It might be worth noting that I’m also good at script writing which is the career my parents are trying to nudge me more towards whether they’re doing it on purpose or not. While I do enjoy writing and plan on maybe starting that way and then looking for an opportunity to pursue a more onstage/on screen job, it’s not my main focus, it’s more of a starting point. I am in a magnet school for drama so i am very involved in theatre and acting and am learning new techniques and will be doing a lot of shows and competitions for my high school years.

Thank you comment icon It's great and fortunate to find something you love so early in your life. LEARN EVERYTHING YOU CAN ABOUT IT. WORK HARD. STRIVE TO BE THE BEST. TAKE THE KNOCKS AND BLOWS. AND IN THE END YOU CAN SAY TO YOURSELF I DID IT. I'M AN ACTOR. CONGRATRULATE YOURSELF I ACHIEVED MY DREAM. IT'S LIKE LIFE ALWAYS A STRUGGLE. ONE FINAL WORD DON'T MISS OUT ON LOVE. David Young

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Subject: Career question for you

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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Asa !

It is very difficult to pursue a career in theatre or acting when people around you are very far removed from the reality of it. This usually makes them seem unsupportive or critical but the way I did it was, if I was around people like that, I didn't talk about it. Until I enrolled in college where I met other actors and people in theatre whom I was able to interact with and be around the people I needed to be around and make it real. I had to place myself in it and it did become real. Many people are not familiar with anyone who is an actor so it seems so far removed from reality for them. Many do not mean to be insulting, but some can be at times, and you may hear that from a few people.

Once you begin your college course of study, internship or studio lessons for acting, things change because you start meeting and working with people that you end up having an authentic bond with. You understand one another and because acting is so collaborative, it puts you in an ideal social niche. When the naysayers say something, it just seems to go over your head and you forget about it. You know your reality. Acting is more than a famous name and it's more than getting your own TV series or being a movie star, but some people do not understand that.

At one point, the only people I was associating with were other actors and theatre people as well as filmmakers. I had a couple of friends that weren't and they loved it and understood it as a career choice so were very supportive and fun to be around. When people tell you to forget it and think of something realistic, they are telling you that they do not know what an acting career really is. They're basing it on famous names, wealth and fame. So they think that no one they know could possibly attain that, but that isn't what I was looking for. I just wanted to make an income from acting, not become rich and famous. So I was confident that I could do that and you should be too. Take one project at a time, and there are many opportunities, more than the naysayers know about.

So my advice is to keep doing what you're doing and tell them you've chosen your career path and you will dedicate yourself to it. Show them you are confident in your choice. Another way is to just ignore them or change the subject. Don't let their defeatist statements get you down. That's how I did it. I was fortunate in that I had a very strong support system for this, though. I was young and had older mentors who were so important to me. I had no interest in being around people who didn't understand or could not share in the happiness I had for my studies or work.

I hope this has been of help and I wish you all the very best in your continued acting and in your future career ! Never give up !
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for the advice and encouragement, I really appreciate it. Asa
Thank you comment icon You are very welcome, Asa ! Michelle M.
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Ellen’s Answer

Hi Asa
Good question! You're a freshman in High School, but already you've got two things going for you, in that you know what you want to do and you know it will not be easy. I'm not sure where in the arts you want to work, but I'll address your question from the visual arts perspective.

The good news is that there are careers in visual art and design that are stable and pay well, but they are competitive to get into. This means you'll have to work hard on your artwork and at some point come up with an art portfolio that will convince your potential employers to hire you. My sister in law was a graphic designer for a large utility company, and she loved her work and has a very comfortable lifestyle. The types of careers you might check out are: graphic designers (a broad field), fashion designers, product designers, textile designers, and interior designers.

If you want to become a fine artist and make a living from selling your work, the path is a lot more challenging and less stable. For this, you'll have to come up with a body of work that is attractive and saleable, and sell your work either on an online platform, through your own website or through a gallery (or all three.) Fine artists are the ones who usually need to find "day jobs" to support them and their art. They are often the ones getting the "You gotta get realistic!" speeches from concerned family members.

Another possibility is art education, working with kids and adults in a variety of settings, such as public and private schools, community art centers, and museums. I am a retired public school art teacher, and I loved sharing my art skills and passion with my students. Being an art teacher also encouraged me to learn new art techniques and approaches, and I was able to work on my own art during my summer vacations. I am now retired, and I can focus full time on my art, which is great. If you like working with kids or adults, this might be a "realistic" choice for you.

As a freshman, you've got time to figure out where you want to go in the art world. In the meantime, I suggest you take art classes and do the best you can in all the lessons, even the ones you may think are "dumb"; stick close to your art teachers for feedback on the artwork you do in class and after school; find ways to share your artwork, either by finding places to display it, or creating posters for clubs at school, or artwork for your school newspaper or yearbook. If you are interested in teaching, see if you could volunteer for after school art programs, or at a local community art center.

Be sure to tell your family about what you are doing in school for art, either in class or after school, show them your art on a regular basis, keep them in the loop about your art career interests, even if you still get the comment about needing to be"realistic". Let your family know your seriousness about a career in art, and share what you learn about art careers from going to the library, or searching on line for art careers. It is sometimes difficult to pursue a career in art without your family's support, so stay strong, work hard, and persevere.

Best wishes!
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for your feedback Ellen. I would like to pursue a career in performing arts however this was still very helpful as I can apply some of your advice to acting as well as sharing this with my friends who might want to become artists if they need it, so thank you. Asa
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Christian’s Answer

Hi Asa,

The best advice a professor once gave me on this topic is by posing a question. He taught the "weed out" class in my engineering degree and told us up front that we're going to be having a tough time. But his advice was simple, by asking: "How do you eat an elephant?" Of course the answer is, "One bite at a time!".

That's to say, set your sights on your goal, but don't worry about every minutia of how to get there, because it will overwhelm you. Think of the things you need to do in the short term and near term and just continue working towards your goal and you'll get there.

I'll give you one more that is (maybe) relevant that I use with my kids when they get overwhelmed. I tell them to "Stop worrying about things that are outside of your control, because there are enough things already within your control that you should focus on instead." In every career there are moments of luck or other inputs needed you literally have no control over. Don't fret over it, instead focus on what is in your hands and prepare yourself so that when a lucky situation does come up, you are in the best spot possible to take advantage of it.

All the best for your future career!
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Michael’s Answer

Knowing what you want to do is a superpower! It drives focus and commitment, even when the path is challenging. Answering the "but what will you do if…" questions isn't easy, and sometimes the best way to do that is to have a "survival skill" job that you build alongside your artistic endeavours.

Do you like to write, cook, drive? Figure out what you will do for $$$ when you are pursuing your dreams, and then go do the thing you want to do.

Also there are literally thousands of career paths in the arts! If your priority is being a working artist, then work as an artist — and also get agile and crafty about earning a living while you do.

Michael recommends the following next steps:

Talk to other working actors about career paths
Explore things you like to do that can supplement your income.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the help. Asa
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Ricardo’s Answer

When I was in your shoes, I too had a clear vision of my future, just like you. The whole world seemed to be against me, discouraging me from pursuing my dreams. Even the head of my high school contacted my mother, trying to convince her to change my mind "for my own benefit". Here's a bit more about my background: I was raised in a modest small town in South America, my parents being factory workers, in a country devoid of any film industry or any conceivable route towards my aspirations. Yet, I defied all odds, ignored all the discouraging advice, and pursued my dreams relentlessly until I became a filmmaker and TV producer. I even bagged an Emmy about ten years ago!

I'm sharing my journey with you because I firmly believe that in today's Florida, despite any discouraging advice you may come across, you have far more opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and start working on your own projects. Be it theater or film, all you need today is a group of friends and a project to dive into. Of course, formal education is important, but nothing beats hands-on experience. And unlike yesteryears, you can now shoot a movie using your own cellphone and share it with the world via social media.

I'm certain that some of those who tell you it's impossible have good intentions, just like some of my folks did back in the 80's. But remember, only you truly know what your heart desires and how badly you want it. If your desire is as strong as mine was, fight for your dreams and the world will be at your feet.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much for the advice Asa
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Laura’s Answer

Hello Asa,
What a great question! First, congratulations on already knowing you want to pursue acting/theater as a high school freshman. I don't know a lot of people who 100% knew what they wanted to do for the rest of their lives, so that is very impressive in and of itself.

Like you, when I was a freshman, I knew what I wanted to do for a career. Now I wish I knew when I was going to school for graphic design, how competitive the design industry is to get a position working for a company. Since going through this myself, I have learned it is best to pursue a career that you want to pursue and put your heart into it, giving it everything you have to make it happen. I won't lie, there will be trials and tests along the way, but if you love doing something you will do everything and anything in your power to make it happen for yourself. Also, most importantly if anyone is telling you to not pursue a career that you want, do not listen or give in to them. I know this is a tough one to follow through with, but it is very important to have a support system of people in your life who support your dreams and wishes you have for yourself and believe in yourself that you can do it.

The great news is you are still a high school freshman, meaning you have time to explore different areas. For example, talk to your guidance counselor about options you can explore as an existing high school student, try out for a part in your high school play/volunteer for any stage crew that may be needed, ask around to different people if they know anyone as an active actor or theater to shadow them, reach out to people via social media to see if they would be willing to talk with you about acting/theater work, look into schools you would be interested in attending for college, etc.

I hope this gives you a bit of guidance on where to start and motivation to keep going and keep with it even when it gets a little tough.

I'm rooting for you, and I wish you the best of luck!

-Laura Mills
Thank you comment icon This was super helpful, thank you! Asa
Thank you comment icon I'm glad I could help, I wish you the best of luck! Laura Mills
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Heather’s Answer

You've received some great advice here and I think it's great you are focused on pursing your dreams.

I especially like the advice of immersing yourself in all the roles within your school's theater program and even your local community theater, if there is one.

A friend of mine took on various theater roles and found he preferred working in sound instead of on stage. He now has a cool job I would have never thought of: designing and installing sound systems for businesses such as restaurants, movie theaters and hospitals.

I wish you the greatest of success.
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Amalya’s Answer

It's always good to follow your dreams and not go against yourself. So if you like the field which you are involved in, then continue your educational journey within it. Try to develop your skills and be competitive in your field. It will help you find your desired job more easily. What refers to your academic and job reflections, I'd like to mention that your persuasions sometimes can be changed over the years. So keep on working on developing your talents and creative abilities.
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Caryn’s Answer

Kudos to you for your unwavering dedication towards your career goals. It's truly commendable that you've secured a spot in a magnet school that perfectly aligns with your aspirations.

Though I may not be from the world of theatre or drama, I'd love to share a nugget of wisdom. Always strive to give your best shot and stay receptive to opportunities that may come your way. The higher you climb on the ladder of excellence in any endeavor, the more diverse your options will become.

Wishing you all the best!
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Deborah’s Answer

Being an actor is usually not a single thing. Most actors have and employ other skills. And quite frankly in this day and age, being a writer means you don't have to depend on OTHER people to write something for you or to cast you in their piece. It gives you great power to have both skills!!
Also, being an actor means you will spend you entire life training. It really never ends. So you have that to look forward to. And every experience you have -- be it traveling or working as a bartender or selling products in a store -- adds to the richness of life you have to draw upon.

The hard fact is that you most likely may not make your fortune as an actor. That's just statistics. but as you study and grow, you will find what level of being an actor is most satisfying to you. Having other interests, other skills is just a part of the package.

And the great thing about being an actor is you can leave it and come back again later. Always. So look around at what would support you being an actor, and count it as additional life experiences. A writer's room for a show, or writing for the theatre can't hurt at all.
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Jerome’s Answer

Life can be short and messy. If you have found something you love, continue to explore it. You’ll get exposed to many things through high school and college, so leaving space for finding other things you may love, I’d encourage you to stick with it and see where it goes.

Success-for me- is finding continent with your life. If this path gets you there, do it!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Asa,

Embarking on an acting career can be a daunting task, particularly when met with doubts or discouragement from others. Here are some empowering strategies to keep you steadfast in your acting pursuit, regardless of the skeptics:

1. Confidence and Perseverance: In a challenging career like acting, unwavering confidence and perseverance are key. Believe in your talents, passion, and dreams. Remember, achieving success in any field often demands persistence and resilience in the face of hurdles.

2. Goal Setting: Dreaming big is vital, but setting attainable short-term and long-term goals can keep you focused and driven. Break your aspirations down into manageable steps, such as gaining experience through school performances, community theatre, or acting classes.

3. Mentorship and Support: Surround yourself with individuals who support your talent and dreams. Seek mentors in the acting industry who can offer invaluable advice, guidance, and networking opportunities. Their insights and experiences can be a lifeline as you navigate the complexities of an acting career.

4. Lifelong Learning and Development: Acting is a craft that demands continuous learning and skill refinement. Seize every chance to enhance your acting skills, be it through formal education, workshops, or practical experience on stage or screen. Welcome feedback as a means of growth, not criticism.

5. Financial Planning: Understand that an acting career may bring financial instability, especially in the early stages. Develop a financial plan that enables you to support yourself while chasing your passion. This could involve part-time jobs, effective budgeting, or seeking scholarships/grants for further education.

6. Balancing Passion with Pragmatism: While following your acting passion is essential, consider honing complementary skills or interests like scriptwriting as a safety net or an additional creative outlet. Striking a balance between passion and pragmatism can offer stability while still enabling you to chase your dreams.

7. Cultivating a Strong Support Network: Surround yourself with friends, family, teachers, and peers who understand and support your acting ambitions. A robust support network can provide emotional support during tough times and celebrate your victories along the way.

Remember, your acting career is a personal journey, and while others' opinions may sway you, the final decision is yours. Stay true to yourself, remain committed to your craft, and keep striving towards your goals, regardless of the hurdles you may encounter.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

Backstage: Backstage is a trusted resource for actors, offering industry news, casting calls, audition tips, and career guidance.

The Hollywood Reporter: A renowned publication providing insights into the entertainment industry, including trends, professional interviews, and updates on the acting world.

Actors’ Equity Association: The Actors’ Equity Association is a labor union that represents actors and stage managers in live theatre productions across the United States.

These resources were used to gather insights on navigating an acting career amidst challenges and societal expectations.

May God Bless You!
James Constantine.
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