How to Start an Acting Career While in School

If you want to start an acting career while in school, that may seem like a near-impossible mission. However, with the right strategies, you can make it happen.

Balancing the demands of school and pursuing your passion for acting can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. In this blog post, we give you three accessible and effective ways to start your acting career while in school.

[Read also: 3 Things Acting Schools Don’t Teach]

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Search for a Creative Partner

A creative partner can be an inspiring screenwriter, an aspiring director, or a fellow aspiring actor. Finding them takes time, but it is worth the effort because you will be creating a team to grow together creatively. Having a creative partner means:

• Build a Meaningful Connection: Establish a bond with your creative partner by collaborating on scenes, monologues, or short films, to achieve mutual growth.
• Expand Your Skill Set: Experiment with different genres, styles, and techniques to explore different aspects of acting.
• Create a Portfolio Together: Showcase your collaborative projects in a portfolio. Whether scenes, monologues, or short films, having a portfolio or a reel can impress casting directors and potential collaborators.

To start your search for a creative partner, you can attend local acting classes or drama clubs, actively seeking individuals who share your passion and vision.

[Read also: Are Acting Classes Worth It?]

Attend Short Film Festivals

Short films offer a fantastic avenue for showcasing your acting skills. By exploring short film festivals, you gain exposure and immerse yourself in filmmaking’s practicalities. Begin by creating a free profile on platforms like FilmFreeway, opening doors to opportunities.

• Hands-On Filmmaking Experience: Short films provide a hands-on experience in the filmmaking process. Dive into the world of storytelling, gaining valuable insights into the collaboration between actors, directors, and producers.
• Networking Opportunities: Film festivals serve as networking hubs. Attend events, connect with industry professionals, and build relationships that may lead to future collaborations or auditions.
• Portfolio Enhancement: Participation in short film festivals adds depth to your acting portfolio. Showcase your versatility and adaptability by featuring different roles and genres in your submitted works.

[Read also: Industry Pros Actors Must Network With]

Keep a Contacts Spreadsheet

Keep a list of every person you meet who is either in the entertainment business or seriously planning to be. It is highly underrated how important it is to remember people, their names, and how you met over the years. Your friends and acquaintances that you start building at a young age will help you for the rest of your life.

• Early Networking Advantage: Start building connections early in your career. Attend industry events, workshops, and social gatherings to meet professionals who can provide guidance and opportunities.
• Utilize Social Media: Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to stay connected with your network. Share your achievements, stay updated on industry trends, and engage with your connections regularly.
• Long-Term Benefits: The relationships you cultivate during your school years can have a lasting impact on your career. Your network can become a source of advice, recommendations, and opportunities throughout your acting journey.

Building a network of industry contacts is a strategic move that pays off in the long run. Keep a detailed list of everyone you meet in the entertainment business, from actors to directors and casting directors. This database will become a valuable resource as you progress in your career.

[Read also: 5 Reasons Why Talent Clips are Better Than Acting Reels]

Conclusion

Starting your acting career while in school is not only possible but can also be a rewarding experience. By finding a creative partner, exploring short film festivals, and actively building a network of industry contacts, you can set yourself on a path toward success.

Remember, the connections you make and the experiences you gain during these formative years will be crucial in shaping your future as an actor. Embrace the journey, stay persistent, and take the driver’s seat in your acting career.

[Read also: Professional Acting: 3 Unexpected Truths]

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At Teacup of Wisdom, we share knowledge and insights about the entertainment industry from the actor’s point of view to inspire and empower your acting journey.