<p>First, I’ve officially changed my name to “connections” from "hoveringmom.’ I gave myself that name to poke fun at myself a few years back, when I was nervously navigating my D’s application process after my older son’s bad experience. But I don’t think it applies much anymore, although I <em>do</em> hover from time to time! I feel like I’ve made many connections recently, here at CC, in my life, my mind, heart…</p>
<p>Anyway, as to this question: I completely agree that it’s important to have fallback plans, but I strongly feel that a theatre major builds valuable skills that can be applied to many, many jobs, and anyway, it’s valuable in and of itself. </p>
<p>Long term acting in theatre, if you have the fortune to be successful (to be able to support yourself in your work) can indeed be grueling. One very successful regional actress I know, in her 30s, with kids, has recently retired - not for lack of theatre jobs - and is now teaching theatre at an exclusive private high school, and is very happy. To everything there is a season. </p>
<p>Some people like security. They like getting that nursing degree, say, and knowing there will be a job for them and that they will have one their entire lives (although who’s to say in this weird economy?). That is a very reasonable approach. Sometimes I wish my kids were like that. I have a friend whose own kids do exactly what he tells them. He told them to major in nursing and go into nurse anesthesiology, and that’s what they’re doing (two so far). Practical, solid.</p>
<p>However, not everyone is made that way. My own philosophy is that you should pursue your dream, particularly when you’re young. You can go to nursing school - to use that example - in your 30s if you want. I myself was forced back into the job market in my 40s and had to go back to grad school. People do this all the time. Why not pursue the thing you love when you’re young, see what happens? You will not be wasting your time, that’s for sure. There are SO many skills being developed in studying acting.</p>