If only I could say I just recently discovered that I won the lottery but sadly no, not today. Rather in fact, I just recently discovered what I'd like to do in life - and I think that is just as equivalently stupendous.
As a young college student, the pressures to be something and to make something of yourself is definitely present. To now be responsible to make decisions on your own and to decide your future some 5-10 years later? Seems kind of sudden and especially for those who are still undecided (and I know many that still are).
I grew up thinking I could pursue a two careers at once, a doctor for the sake of my parents and a graphic designer for the sake of myself. Of course, plans change, life happens, and now I am studying Business Administration.
It is not enough though. I find that even though I want to be an entrepreneur, this path does not fulfill my passions enough. What exactly are my passions? They are art and leadership. Which is why I thought majoring in Business was the better choice as I could explore the diplomatic side as well as keep the opportunities to flourish in art open.
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| Photo by Andrew @ Cuba Gallery |
According to the editors of the AGCAS in April of 2012, “An arts administrator manages activities and services which support the arts sector” (AGCAS editors). This includes both non-profit or public organizations as well as government agencies. For example, museums, art festivals, galleries, and theaters.
So as you can see, this career can cover a wide range of programs – from “from finger-painting to photography; from ballet to belly dance; and from hip-hop to opera” as mentioned by The College Board (Careers - Arts Administrators - Management). Currently, I am not sure which area of organization I'd like to get into, but hopefully through more research and experience I can decide by then.
So if you are wondering how you to choose a career, The Online Counseling College lists 8 self-reflective questions that can help you decide.
The following websites can also help in providing more information on career you're looking into:
- Big Future by The College Board
- Career Center by University of Missouri
- Career Clusters by O*Net Online
- Education Portal
- Occupational Outlook Handbook by the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Ted Wiprud, who is the director of Education for the New York Philharmonic, began his schooling before the degree of Arts Administration existed. In an interview, I'd like to share with you his words:
“[…] doing the things and of course being passionate about them because you have to be ready to be working on the margins of society […] and be that much of an advocate for the central importance of what you're doing, that you keep it moving. That's what kept it moving for 400 years, its people who feel this is the most important thing in life and are able to bring that passion across to other people” (Why Pursue a Career in Arts Administration, and What Does it Take).He basically shares the advice to pursue your career but with passion and I hope that I can be able to do that with Arts Administration.
Instead of being tied down by feelings of the past or responsibilities of the present, leisurely look into what the future can hold for you. Dare to discover and pursue your passions.
Works Cited
AGCAS editors. Arts administrator: Job
description. April 2012. 17 April 2013.
Careers - Arts Administrators - Management. n.d. 17 April 2013.
Why Pursue a Career in Arts
Administration, and What Does it Take
Ted Wiprud. November 2006. Video Clip.
