|
|
WILL COLLEGE INTERFERE WITH MY CAREER PLANS?
Dear Grover,
I'm 13. I live in Michigan and have been dancing for six years. When I'm 18, I'm heading for New York to pursue my dream. I know there are others out there just like me. The competition will be stiff. But I feel I'm up to it.
The problem is my mom thinks I should go for a college degree. She's convinced that when I'm 30 and can't really dance anymore, I'll come back home and open up a studio. She says I'll need a degree to do that. What should I do?
My dream is itching to be fulfilled. I want to go on tour with a group like Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, etc. I'd even like to be in one of those Gap commercials. Should I get a college education and hold back from going to N.Y. until I graduate? Please help me.
Confused.
MEMBERS HAVE
IMMEDIATE ACCESS TO:
• College v/s The Biz
• Launching Your Career Begins At Home
• ProSpeak / The Way You Think
• 88 Assets The Pros Rely On
• Family Matters
• Secrets To Successful Auditions
To see more member benefits, click here> |
Dear Confused,
Many pros who went to college have enjoyed successful careers. Entering the biz at 21 is not too late. There's plenty of dancing years left to fill up with satisfying employment. Don't forget that many of those amazing dancers in "Chicago" and “Movin’ Out” are 30-40! None of them are ready to be put out to pasture! Nowadays, dance careers aren't over at 30, 40, or even 50...especially for those who take good care of their bodies and keep growing as a performer.
For every successful pro that swears by the college education they got, there are just as many who've made it without one. The closest example I can think of is my own. I could not afford to go to college. I boarded the bus to N.Y. at 17 with $130. in my pocket, a dream in my heart, and the willingness to work hard. The first year was financially challenging until I got my first job on a television variety show. Four years later, when my friends were graduating and chomping at the bit to get started, I already had an agent, three Broadway shows, twenty television specials, and a solid reputation under my belt. For me, the direct path to the biz worked. For others, the college route worked. It's a personal choice.
You have plenty of time to prepare yourself. Let go of the pressure and enjoy the ride.
Grover D.
Return to home page
|
|
