I’m not going to college

I’m in high school and I’ve decided I will not attend college for the sake of the film industry (actor and director). I’ve made my decisions why.

1. I’m not wealthy enough to afford thousands of dollars off of film school where it’s not required to have a degree to excel + student debt.

2. I can spend the money on more practical beneficiary things. I’ll be more free. I feel like film school will take away my time and money.

3. It’s generally easier for me to learn better out of the educational district.

My mom and sister is disappointed in me because of my decision (going into college and film) they want me to pick a “realistic” job and go to college and just do film as a side. Although my dad doesn’t care. But there’s no other career that will fulfill me besides film. I always wanted to be a lovecraftian horror movie director. I just started becoming an official actor this year + I’ve been in classes lots, and I’m going to get another job to save up for the future.

I really need advice and genuine things that will help me thank you!

Jobadvisor:

Your decision to not attend college and pursue a career in the film industry as an actor and director is thoughtful and reflects your understanding of your passions and practical financial considerations. Many successful people in film have taken a path outside traditional education, focusing on learning through experience, networking, and self-study. Here are some pieces of advice and genuine tips to support your journey:

1. Develop Your Craft Independently:

   • Continue taking acting classes, workshops, and director-focused training outside of college.

   • Study films, scripts, and techniques independently, including resources on Lovecraftian horror if that’s your focus.

   • Practice writing, directing, and acting by creating your own short films or joining local projects.

2. Gain Industry Experience:

   • Build your resume by acting in local theater, independent films, student films, or community projects.

   • Assist on film sets in different capacities to learn the practical side of filmmaking.

   • Get a job in related areas such as camera operation, editing, or production assistance to understand the entire filmmaking process.

3. Network Actively:

   • Attend film festivals, industry meetups, and online forums to connect with filmmakers, actors, and other creatives.

   • Build relationships with mentors who can guide you and potentially open doors.

   • Use social media platforms to showcase your work and connect with industry professionals.

4. Financial Planning:

   • Keep saving consistently to invest in your projects and equipment.

   • Consider part-time or flexible jobs that allow you to dedicate time to your film career.

   • Look into grants, awards, and scholarships geared toward independent filmmakers and actors.

5. Stay Persistent and Patient:

   • The film industry can be unpredictable and competitive; maintaining passion and resilience is key.

   • Set both short- and long-term goals to keep yourself motivated and progressively building your career.

6. Communicate with Your Family:

   • Share your plans and efforts with your family over time, showing them concrete progress.

   • Explain how you’re taking practical steps and managing your finances responsibly.

   • Seek support from your dad or other encouraging figures when you feel discouraged.

7. Utilize Alternative Educational Resources:

   • Take advantage of free or low-cost online courses on filmmaking, acting, and screenwriting from platforms like MasterClass, Coursera, or YouTube.

   • Read books by filmmakers and directors you admire to gain insights into the industry.

Your self-awareness about the cost and time commitment of college and the clarity on what fulfills you is a strong foundation. Many filmmakers and actors have carved their own paths outside of traditional education. Focus on honing your skills, gaining experience, and building a network—these will be your keys to success and satisfaction in the film industry. Stay confident and persistent in your pursuit. Your passion and commitment will carry you far.

40 and lost on the road of life, might just give up

So about me, I'm 40 from rural central Illinois, a very isolated pocket of nowhere. I have been trying to find something out that isn't back breaking. I worked 7 years in hard labor before my shoulder started giving out. So I took a job in retail at a gas station in my home town.

So far I have been stuck here for three years with no hope save to go back into grain again or work on the river. But my back is suffering from arthritis and my shoulder has been permanently borked from working since I was 9.

I don't see anyway out of here these days and the job market is full of basically crippling myself by the time I'm an old man. I'd like to enjoy my twilight years with some of my corpse intact. I don't suspect this will happen. But there's always the easy way out eventually.

I just don't know what to do, I've succumbed to despair, desperation and depression of late.

Jobadvisor:

I’m really sorry to hear that you’re feeling this way. It sounds like you’re carrying a heavy burden, especially with your physical pain and challenging circumstances. While it may feel overwhelming now, your desire for a better, less physically taxing future is valid and important.

Here are some thoughtful suggestions that might help you explore new paths and regain hope:

1. Seek Support for Mental Health:

   • Feeling overwhelmed or depressed is understandable in your situation, and talking to a mental health professional can provide you with strategies and emotional relief.

   • There may be local or online support groups, counseling, or services available at low or no cost.

   • Reaching out to friends or family, if possible, can also bring some encouragement.

2. Explore Less Physically Demanding Jobs or Skills:

   • Consider learning skills that are less taxing on your body but still offer stable income, such as:

     • Remote or computer-based jobs like customer service, data entry, or administrative work.

     • Trades with less physical strain, such as equipment operation with supportive technology, or perhaps retraining in fields like IT support or clerical work.

   • Free or low-cost online courses can help you gain these skills, especially on platforms like Coursera, edX, or community college offerings.

3. Look into Vocational Rehabilitation Programs:

   • Many states offer vocational rehabilitation services that help people with physical disabilities retrain for less physically demanding careers.

   • These programs can assist with education, job placement, and even financial support.

4. Evaluate Remote and Gig Economy Opportunities:

   • Remote work opportunities have expanded significantly and may offer you flexibility and a way to protect your physical health.

   • Examples include freelance writing, virtual assistance, online tutoring, or selling crafts or services online.

5. Consider Small Steps Toward Change:

   • Even small changes like exploring a new hobby that could supplement income or volunteering in a field that interests you can build confidence and open doors.

6. Health and Physical Care:

   • Consult with healthcare providers about managing arthritis and shoulder pain. Pain management, physical therapy, or adaptive tools might improve your capacity.

   • Taking care of your body with gentle exercise or therapy might also help maintain what you can.

7. Remember You’re Not Alone:

   • Many people face struggles with health and employment changes, and support networks exist to help.

   • You deserve to find a path that respects your limits and gives you dignity.

If you feel overwhelmed by thoughts of giving up, please try to reach out to a crisis helpline or mental health professional immediately. Your life has value and possibilities, even when it doesn’t feel that way. Small steps forward, even if slow, can lead to meaningful change. You are stronger than your circumstances today.

Realizing I hate the degree I just got and all my paths seem miserable

21M, just graduated with a biochem degree. Throughout my college life I was never super into what I was learning, I just figured if I studied hard enough I'd be able to land a job after 4 years and make decent enough money for a living. I tried to find internships along the way but failed every time. However, during my last year, I had a few moments when it hit me that I really did not like what I was learning at all and considered just dropping out. I convinced myself to finish because I was so close and figured I was just burnt out from learning.

Well I got the degree and recently went for a job interview, and not only did I basically forget all of the stuff I had done/learned, they asked me why exactly I wanted to work in this field and I had absolutely nothing. I don't wanna go back to school, because I'm sick of learning, and also because I can't get financial aid anymore, so getting a Lab Technician license is off the table for now. But I have essentially 0 drive to do anything in this field now that I'm away from uni.

I've worked in a kitchen for years and am fine with mundane tasks and figured I would be fine with just getting a lab job where I made enough so that could work for 8 hours then go home, preferably a job that would contribute at least something meaningful to the world. But after the interview I'm realizing I'm going to be miserable going down this road. I know I'm at fault for not coming to this conclusion sooner, but is there anything I can do?

Jobadvisor:

You’re facing a tough and common crossroads after graduation—realizing the degree you worked hard for doesn’t align with your passion or fulfillment. It’s a challenging but not uncommon situation, and there are practical steps you can take to find a more satisfying path without immediately going back to school:

1. Reflect on What You Enjoy and Value:

   • Since you mentioned being fine with mundane tasks and working in a kitchen before, think about what aspects of that work or other experiences you’ve enjoyed.

   • Consider what "meaningful contribution" looks like to you personally—does it have to be related to science, or could it be something else entirely?

   • Explore your interests beyond your degree, even hobbies or skills you’ve picked up informally.

2. Leverage Your Degree Creatively:

   • Though you don’t want to continue formal schooling, your biochem degree is a strong foundation that can open doors in various fields, such as quality control, regulatory affairs, technical sales, or scientific writing, which may be less research-intensive.

   • You could also explore roles in industries adjacent to biochemistry where your analytical and problem-solving skills are valued.

3. Gain Experience Through Entry-Level or Part-Time Roles:

   • Look for jobs that don’t require heavy expertise but might give you insight into what you might like—roles in labs with supportive teams, or entry-level roles in biotech companies, pharmaceutical firms, or health-related organizations.

   • Continue working in kitchens or similar roles part-time if they provide stability while you explore options.

4. Consider Skill-Building Outside Traditional Education:

   • Online courses, certifications, or workshops in areas of growing demand that interest you (e.g., data analysis, coding, environmental science, technical communication) can be low-cost ways to explore new paths without the financial burden of formal college.

   • Many platforms offer flexible learning with little or no cost.

5. Network and Seek Mentorship:

   • Reach out to alumni, professionals on LinkedIn, or career counselors to learn about diverse career routes available with your degree.

   • Informational interviews can give you a clearer picture of what's out there and help you build connections.

6. Evaluate Mental and Emotional Well-being:

   • It’s normal to feel lost or disappointed after a major life phase. If these feelings persist, consider talking with a counselor or career coach who can help you process your emotions and plan next steps.

7. Set Short-Term Realistic Goals:

   • Focus on finding a job that provides reasonable income and stability while you explore what truly interests you.

   • Give yourself permission to experiment with different roles to find a better fit.

The key is that your degree is a tool but not a life sentence. Many people shift careers multiple times and find fulfillment in unexpected places. It’s okay to take your time and seek something that feels meaningful and sustainable to you. You still have plenty of time to find the right path.