What should I major in to be a publicist or talent agent for actors? Do you know of any colleges in PA or NY?

Question

I would really like to be in the entertainment business, no matter what. So casting director is cool as well. So yea. What should be my specific major and what colleges are best? I'd like it near Pittsburgh, PA to New York.
Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Forget about a college major for the entertaiment. industry, it doesn't work that way.

Many people in the industry, publicist, talent agent, etc. get a job through referrals by other people in the business.

Network and get to know friends that work in the industry and tell them your goal. Ask them to let you know if they hear of any internships at the various agencies in the city where you live.

The entertainment industry is a "hands on job." You will probably start as an Intern to the Talent Agent or a Junior Agent.

Classes will not help you. The entertainment industry is "on the job, training," either by the owner of the Talent Agent or the sub-agents in the office.

You will make and fetch coffee, photocopy actor headshots/resumes, run errands and answere the "non-stop," telephone. You must take telephone messages accurately.

The agency business is not difficult. It's a lot of telephone work and going to the theater, depending on what the focus of the office where you will intern/work, Film, Theater, etc.

Answer 2

Publicist would best be served by a Communications major. Advertising and Communications.

Agent would best be served by business courses. Agents are basically licensed employment agencies.

Casting directors need a fundamental education about cinema and theater.

They basically recomend talent to producers and directors and they direct the casting calls.

They are, essentially, like a 2nd assistant director.

They tell the artist where to stand, what to do and they do the talking for the real director or producer.

So you're a coordinator and stage manager type person.

Answer 3

Whatever intrests you the most :)