While not all institutions have artistic scholarships, it is an extra bonus if you can find a program that meets your criteria and can offer you the possibility of a scholarship. Most scholarship money for the arts is available from the institution itself so don’t overlook scholarship possibilities. If you are academically talented, you may also be eligible for academic merit scholarships so be sure to investigate those scholarships as well. Leave no corner unturned. After graduation, if you have to take out loans, you will have to repay them so make sure that factoring the cost of your degree is considered carefully.
Working while in school requires time management, but it’s possible. Making contacts off campus can be helpful in seeking internships later in your college career. If you do take the plunge to get a part-time job in the “real world,” it may be beneficial to find a job related to your field of study. For example, you could work in an art gallery or museum, work at a local professional theatre company, teach dance to children at a local dance studio, work at a local symphony or opera company or work at a local publishing company or newspaper.
You should check out the support that the college will provide for you to find a job. The college career office at your school most likely has a library of books that can help you delve further into career possibilities. Your alumni office may have a list of people working in certain fields. Many make themselves available for informational interviews. Faculty members in your department may also have personal contacts with whom you can speak about career choices. Ask questions to find out what resources the colleges you are considering offer.
No matter what you do after you finish your degree, you can take pride in the fact that you’ve made a commitment to having the arts as an integral part of your education and your life. And always, you will be an artist wherever you go and no matter what you choose to do.
Elaina Loveland
Elaina Loveland is a writer, editor, dancer, and teacher. She is the author of Creative Colleges and Creative Careers.
By: Elaina Loveland
From preparing for an audition and creating a portfolio to filing for financial aid, the entire college admissions process as it pertains to actors, artists, dancers, musicians, and writers is covered in this guide for creative college-bound students.
By: Elaina Loveland
You can make a living following your creative passion. This book for aspiring actors, artists, dancers, musicians, and writers shows you how to break into the top creative professions. Includes in-depth profiles of 95 creative careers.
