<p>Hey everyone, </p>
<p>What would be the best major to keep my options open as far as careers?I'm currently trying to decide between a major in Media Arts and Sciences or a major in English. Eventually I want to go on to film school after my undergraduate degree most likely with a focus in screenwriting. I love working with films from all angles, writing, directing, cinematography, editing...and I am also trying to be practical with the idea that I may not be able to work in the film industry for a living. </p>
<p>If you want to work with filmmaking, you should try to find an inexpensive, employable, and relatively fast degree to snatch up. Minimize the amount of time you spend on a traditional major and in a classroom, and free up as much time as possible for the really important things: filmmaking and screenwritng. Your “backup plan” should not be treated as a back up plan. Back up plans should be on the side. If your screenwriting and filmmaking is your main goal, don’t put that on the side, or it won’t work out. </p>
<p>You could get a teaching credential and teach English - the hours are good (so long as you don’t teach high schoolers with a ton of homework) and you get summers off. You could also go for something like nursing or dental assisting: both degrees can be obtained at a trade school quickly, pay relatively well, and are always in high demand. </p>
<p>Just some ideas. If you’re considering a science major, that means you don’t hate science, which is good. That sort of work usually pays better as a backup. </p>
<p>And you WILL be able to work in the film industry for a living… if you make it a priority. Don’t sell yourself short. Even though you may not be writing award winning screenplays or directing huge block busters, it’s completely possible to hold down a stable job in screenwriting and filmmaking. These two areas are filled with individuals behind the scenes who work 9-5 like any other job. They may not lead the final product, but they certainly play a part in it. Granted, it takes a lot more grit to get to a place of stability than other careers. But if you apply yourself and dedicate your heart and soul, it’ll happen. Don’t throw in the towel before you’ve begun. </p>
<p>Good luck! </p>