Pros and Cons of HE

I have listed a number of pros and cons of going to University or Drama school below and I have researched a number of alternative options and routes that I could possibly pursue.
Pros:

• Extensive education provides more studying in a safe environment.
• Gain more confidence as you are constantly working at developing your skills and improving.
• You are surrounded by like minded people whom understand your passion and can offer support and advice.
• It gives you the chance to network through workshops and showcases.
• You have consistent performance opportunities
• It is a structured way to learn.
• Expands your skills and helps you grow as a character by becoming stronger and tolerable to criticism.

Cons:

• It can be very rigid and mould you into a 'type'.
• It is less flexible so you will have to dedicate most of your time to the studying, leaving less opportunity to work outside.
• It is harder to save up money if you can not find a job with the correct hours.
• Going to drama school or university doesn't guarantee a job in the arts.
• Miss out on opportunities in the community.
• Can become too structured in your performance style and loose spontaneity and freedom.

I have read an article on 'The Stage' website which states that going to Drama School isn't the only option in being successful in the performing arts industry which is linked: https://www.thestage.co.uk/opinion/2014/drama-schools-arent-the-only-route-to-professional-acting-success/ and another interesting article I found inspiring was from 'Spotlight' which is linked: https://www.spotlight.com/news/archive/2013/11/26/how-to-train-without-drama-school.aspx

There are alternative routes to attending university or drama school such as working with an acting coach, attending workshops, joining a theatre group, adult education centres, The National Youth theatre and auditioning for an agency to help you find work in theatre, film and TV.


After doing a lot of extensive research into the pros and cons of attending drama school, I have concluded that I will be applying for drama school as I have learnt a lot during my Level 3 Acting and Performance diploma and I believe I can keep learning more and bettering my craft. To be constantly surrounded by the arts and theatre will be a useful and motivating environment with a lot of contacts and access to networking with industry professionals. This article helped me to finalise my decision of attending drama school: https://www.spotlight.com/news-and-advice/tips-and-advice/drama-school-to-be-or-not-to-be-the-pros-cons-of-formal-training/