<p>How difficult is it really for a graduate of a BFA or MFA program to break into the profession and what exactly does it entail? Are there fairly reasonable prospects for procuring work? I've researched this a lot on the internet and all the articles seem to say the same thing, that is go for your Equity card, try to get an agent, and hope for the best. I was hoping those of you with children who have made the transition could shed some more light on the process. Also, do people who go to a school in New York (such as NYU or Juilliard) have better prospects of getting cast on Broadway?</p>
<p>These are some pretty big questions, Preston T, and they can’t be answered in a few short paragraphs! First of all, no, it doesn’t really matter where you went to school, as long as you get a good education (and of course have talent!) Certainly some students studying in NYC have opportunities to make connections before graduation – but many schools elsewhere make this possible in other ways: by having professionals come to the campus to teach or direct, or by offering seniors the chance to showcase in NYC, to name just a few. </p>
<p>Aside from that, every successful actor has a different story. It takes a mixture of skill and luck to make it in this business, and there are no guarantees. One of my students, currently touring in the national production of South Pacific, went to NYC straight out of high school, no agent, no Equity card – and began working immediately. Others have gone through rigorous college programs and are still struggling.</p>
<p>It sounds like you have a child who is considering a theater degree. You are right to be concerned: it is a difficult business. A theater degree does not guarantee success – or even steady employment. But I believe an educated actor has a better chance. And theater training can be an excellent background for other professions; I have friends with theater degrees who are now teachers, lawyers, salesmen, executives, and yes – even working actors. Another actor I know graduated from a BFA program, found work in several Broadway shows, and then decided to try another profession. He’s now a doctor. He doesn’t feel that his theater education and experience was a waste of time: it molded him into a confident, organized, and determined person. He learned how to overcome disappointments and how to work hard – qualities that are valuable in any profession.</p>
<p>Check which schools do showcases for their students, which can get you an agent. Right now my top is NC Arts because they do showcases in both LA and NYC and they send all of their students to the showcase. I think it’s similar for Rutgers and Purchase. The same cannot be said for some bigger schools, who only allow a small selection to attend the showcase. I don’t think having your equity card immediately always works in your favor and while having an agent is not entirely necessary to finding a job, it helps immensely.</p>