Tips on career path- Director?

Question

hey there
hoping some indusrty buffs are online to help me.
Im 17 years old. Im going to Uni next year, going for my masters in communications and creative industries, special directors course, graduating top of my high school for media and drama.
anyway my question is should i start off doing anything i can in the industry now- for experience? even fetching coffees, being a clapper loader ect?
or will this make me look insignifgant or underachieving in the eyes of potential contacts?
also geographically what is th best decision to make, is Hollywood too competitive? should i start out somewhere else?

Answer 1

As a graduate of NMSU theatre department, I would recommend that you look through the courses required at the university you will attend. Talk to the advisor, and they will help you plan out a course of study, with emphasis on directing. While in school, use any opportunity to work all phases of stage work. It will give you a better understanding of all roles (parts) for the cast and crew. Work yourself up to stage manager, then ask to direct - really good for your senior project or presentation. Find local theatres who will allow you the experience of directing during the summers.

Answer 2

Do everything you have time to do. No experience is negative unless you let it be negative. What you need most of all is exposure to as many aspects of the industry as you can. As long as you take each responsibility as seriously as you can (but have fun too) the important people will appreciate you. Those who look down on you because you are willing to be a go-fer are the ones you want to avoid anyway.