Expert: Rusty Meyers - 12/27/2008

Question
So here it is, I am a 19-year old, and i want to be in LA, working with, or as an actor! I am still in college, and i plan on graduating, but I have a few questions. I live in Georgia. I want to move to LA, and be my best, and yes, I have thought many things through on that. I was just wondering, what will I need to succeed, as an actor? what major would you prefer for a job working in studios? Is there any colleges I may transfer to in, or right outside of LA, that can give me some credentials I may need?  LA I have heard is the main centre of the action, where it takes place. I have googled a few colleges, but I would rather hear it from a person who has experience, about where I should go. I want to do some stuff here in Georgia, before I go, but what is a good training experience for me?(other than stage work, Which i have done some of, because i know film acting and stage acting are not the same). Film is what I LOVE. It is my passion, and no matter what, I do not want to give it up. Ok, another one, I know i should have a SAG card, and how do I find if there is anything in my area I can audition for, or get points for? What is a reliable website for that? Thanks

Answer
I'm not going to tell you about which college you should attend or transfer to.
However I will say that it is going to be important to get as much film or experience on as many sets as you can to build up your resume.
Odds are it will be indie type projects.
However if you can get on some main stream films which will look much better.
Taking as many acting workshops with legit people will also help.
Check EVERYONE out on imdb.com if you are planning to work with them.
I would suggest putting together a reel BEFORE you get to LA.
I would also suggest sending out a few pic/res to some agents in LA to try and get some representation before you get there as well.
Job-wise in LA isn't very easy to suggest, but it should be one that gives you the opportunity to go out (last second notice) on auditions.
So bartending or waiting tables is a popular job that usually leaves you days free.
If you think that going there with anything less than 10 grand is going to last while you are taking workshops and getting pictures etc... you are going to be back in GA. very soon.
I would think that if you give yourself a year (at least) without having to do anything but looking for a good agent should be enough time to realize IF (or if not) it's going to happen for you.
Hopefully this helped a little bit.