Drama Colleges

Should I Major in Drama and Journalism in College?

I like these subjects and I would love to be an actor (go on for my MFA) or journalist (and earn my MJ). Yet, everyone around me tells me that these are "impractical" subjects and I cannot earn a living at them. What do you think I should do? Have any of you majored in these subjects (especially Drama) and come to regret it later? Thanks.

Public Comments

1. Major in journalism, minor in drama/performing arts starting out. You'll get a feel for it really quickly if that's the thing you're meant to be in. Most people change their majors several times... I'm in the middle of major-changing right now! Good luck and best wishes!
2. I majored in Journalism. I now teach English in an English and Drama Department. Drama is probably a better option to have as a minor unless you've been accepted to a good Drama school in NYC. Journalism is a practical major if you are a good writer and very goal-oriented and self assertive. If you're less assertive, it's not your ideal career. If I were you, I'd major in Journalism and something else (Business?) and then minor in Drama. Then you could work in the business end of dramatic productions or work at a business while getting into drama in your spare time. Of course, you might simply be a brilliant actor and my advice will all be useless ;o). Finally, despite my practical advice, I say go for your passion. If you're passionate about drama, go for it!!!
3. Learning a skill, especially you love is never a waste. Drama is used in giving speeches, speaking before large groups of people, in sales, etc. Journalism is used in many forms of writing including work as an Ad Copywriter for an Ad Agency, for example. Those that work in Public Relations do a lot of writing and a journalism background is important cause they also deal with the media. Never listen to anyone that tells you not to do something unless they have been successful at it themselves!