<p>I think everyone here is raising really valid points. I do think many different paths are viable and sometimes it depends on your skill set, goals, personality. For instance, my own D likes learning academic subjects and being with engineers and musicians and physicists as well as actors, which is why Northwestern is a match for her. My S is much more lazar focused on acting as a craft only, which is why he’s applying to conservatories. </p>
<p>As to talent, well, it does help to be realistic. I have seen grads from all calibers of schools -not just mid level - who sing badly off pitch, who can’t act, who lack basic professional etiquette skills. Honestly, I don’t know where the ball was dropped. It is true that some of these kids are ‘delusional’ but what young person has a totally realistic view of him/herself? They don’t have any way to measure themselves against others, and limited life experience. If a program tells them they’re good enough to accept them and train them, why wouldn’t they think they have what it takes? </p>
<p>But I agree that it is also very difficult if not impossible to predict who will be successful in this business. Also, “success” means different things to different people. For one person, you are successful when you follow your art for a significant length of time, then move on to another field. I know many very successful actors who retired or semi-retired in their 30s and are in different fields, or in teaching. (Some of our kids’ teachers are like this–their resumes are several feet long). Another person might define success as “working in film and being paid a lot of money.” Another person might define it as “working on B’way as an actor for decades.” Another person might define it as “working in regional theatre for a decade and loving it then leaving it.” Still another might define it as “working as a doctor and doing really cool semi-professional theatre.” Or professional. We know someone in his 50s who owns a chain of stores in our area, who is also an actor with a professional theatre from time to time. </p>
<p>So there are so many variables. I do think for some people it really helps to have no plan B. Will Smith talks about that: [Will</a> Smith’s Wisdom - YouTube](<a href=“- YouTube”>- YouTube)</p>
<p>But for other people, either Plan B comes naturally because that’s who they are, or Plan B is necessary because of circumstances and they still forge on. </p>
<p>As far as talent, well, who knows. People develop at such different rates. And it’s not only about talent anyway (although it sure helps!). Having focus and drive, and most importantly, knowing yourself and your type, is I think the most critical thing.</p>