Such an important article. Another aspect I’ve been emphasizing to my kids is the ability to be flexible. One of the things I’m working with my two performing arts kids (one music performance, one MT) on is developing a high demand freelance skill. Accounting/bookkeeping, web design, technical writing, etc. They don’t have to have a specific degree (except accounting) for a lot of these opportunities. These are things they can do to make decent money while maintaining flexibility to audition. With a skill like that and no debt, they will have staying power to pursue their dream that waiting tables doesn’t offer. I hope. 