Drama School or University

I currently do drama, English literature, physics and maths A-level and predicted As and A*s. I would adore to be an actress and feel I would like to go to drama school. However, I wonder about 'wasting my potential' ie if I go to drama school (or don't even get in) and am unsuccessful in building a career I both enjoy and is financially sustainable, I could've made my life better if I studied something else I love like physics. Ultimately, I know it comes down to having faith in myself or taking a leap yada yada- does anyone have any proper advice to cope with this feeling? Or any input as to what I should do? I generally enjoy everything I do, and would say I have an average amount of experience when it comes to acting. I would consider doing an English Literature degree and then going to drama school but 1) money and 2)I fear an English lit degree is pointless. please give me some input?

Reply 1

McGinger

18

If there is nothing else you would rather do with your life, go to Drama School.

If it isnt that important, then do a Physics degree and get involved with the University Drama Society.

Reply 2

mike23mike

16

you can have both! Exeter uni has a combined honours programme where you can study Drama AND Maths.

Reply 3

Flum98

3

Apply to Drama school (very competitive) also apply to Uni. Start one. see how it is.

Reply 4

PQ

Clearing and Applications Advisor

21

Original post by mike23mike

you can have both! Exeter uni has a combined honours programme where you can study Drama AND Maths.

A joint honours drama degree isn’t comparable to drama school where you’re studying practical acting for 25+ contact hours a week.

Reply 5

McGinger

18

An acdemic degree in Drama does not train you to be an actor.
If you want to be a performer - go to Drama School.

There are online Zoom presentations from Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in June for
both the Technical Theatre courses and their Acting courses - https://www.oldvic.ac.uk/opportunities-to-visit

Reply 6

PQ

Clearing and Applications Advisor

21

If you’re undecided then it might be worth applying for a foundation year at a drama school to see if the environment works for you. The funding for drama school is pretty weird but a foundation year wouldn’t eat into your degree funding.

Reply 7

swanseajack1

19

Original post by annierainbow

I currently do drama, English literature, physics and maths A-level and predicted As and A*s. I would adore to be an actress and feel I would like to go to drama school. However, I wonder about 'wasting my potential' ie if I go to drama school (or don't even get in) and am unsuccessful in building a career I both enjoy and is financially sustainable, I could've made my life better if I studied something else I love like physics. Ultimately, I know it comes down to having faith in myself or taking a leap yada yada- does anyone have any proper advice to cope with this feeling? Or any input as to what I should do? I generally enjoy everything I do, and would say I have an average amount of experience when it comes to acting. I would consider doing an English Literature degree and then going to drama school but 1) money and 2)I fear an English lit degree is pointless. please give me some input?

You need to look into whether you can afford drama school. I know a girl locally years ago went to RADA and couldnt get funded. Luckily her parents were able to afford it.

My sister is an actress who just appeared in one of the dramas of the year. She had no drama training and trained as a nurse. Also be aware that huge amounts of actors are out of work.

My personal feeling is you would be better off getting a Physics degree and joining a local amateur dramatics group.