Expert: Susie Watts - 9/29/2011

Question
Hello,

My dilemma lies in the realm of majors. I am stuck between two, which require copious amounts of studio work each - graphic design and film/cinematography. Unfortunately, given the strenuous amount of work associated with each, I am forced to pick one to focus on. Graphic design is a more reliable and stable career path, but film is my passion (I would like to be an art director). Should I abandon my passion for a more common major or take the gamble of getting into an industry as rigorous and connection-based as film?

Thanks so much for your time, I truly appreciate it!

Answer
That is a question that many people face:  Passion vs. reliability.  I would agree that there are probably more jobs out there for graphic designers than there are for art directors.  However, maybe you could put together a major in one and a minor in the other.  That way you would have some flexibility in deciding where you wanted to go from there.  Many schools have career counselors who might be able to help you consider your options.

http://www.collegedirection.org