"Hi. I'm a 16 year old living in Victoria, B.C. My goal in life is to become an actress. The only problem is...I don't exactly know how to get started. Should I leave school soon and go to an acting school instead? Or should i wait to graduate school and then go to an acting college? -Kathy"

Kathy: Congratulations, you've been bitten by the acting bug. Now, that can be a wonderful thing, but be careful, as with any bite, there can be a bit of a sting.

"Hi! I am currently a junior in high school. I've been acting in high school and community theatre for the last two years. I would love to pursue a career in acting, but I have just one issue. Should I attend an acting college or a university with a theatre program, or should I zoom off searching for opportunity right after high school? Is school really worth the time and money, or am I better off getting my name circulated as soon as possible? Thanks for your time! -Nick"

Hi, Nick!

"Chad, I really love your newsletter - it's been great to be getting solid advice delivered right to my inbox.

Is Acting School the Right Place for You?
By Julian Kelly

Is Acting School the Right Place for you? Maybe.

If you want to be famous, you don't need to be an actor in order to do this. Find a reality show, be as outrageous as possible, bring up television ratings, and you can probably be very successful.

You don't need to go to school in order to learn how to drawn attention to yourself.

"Chad: I was attending an MFA program but wasn't invited back to continue studying. What should I do? - Wendy Callipers"

Harvey Fierstein tells the story of an audition where the casting director told him to get out of the business because he lacked the talent. A year later that same casting director was the understudy for Fierstein.

THREE MORE GREAT ACTING SCHOOLS

1. University of Washington

Hey Chad, I read your list of undergraduate drama schools and was surprised to not see the University of Washington listed. the UW School of Drama was ranked forth in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

Top Graduate Acting Programs in the US

If you're serious about becoming a working actor, one path you may want to take is graduate study. Many theater professionals have perfected their skills in MFA drama programs. I've selected -- with the help of my acting coaches -- some of the best in the United States.

Top Undergraduate Acting Programs in the US

"Chad: I've done a lot of theater at my high school, but I know I need more training to make it as an actor. What are the best schools you suggest? Thanks! - Amy Tailor"

Amy: You're right that if you truly want to succeed as an actor, you'll need to get excellent training. There's nothing wrong with getting a good liberal arts education at a school that also offers acting classes, but if you really want to immerse yourself in training, then you'll want to attend one of the leading drama programs in the country.