1. "I hope you plan on double majoring."

A degree in theatre is practical. I want a degree in theatre because I want to DO theatre. I do not WANT to be a lawyer, or a doctor, or a flip-floppin scientific researcher. I want to have a job in theatre.

2. "So...is everyone, like, gay at your school?"

I don't know??? Ask them???

3. "Wow, you're going to a really expensive school. How are you going to pay off all of that debt with a degree in theatre?"

Probably the same way everyone else is going to pay off their debt. Why would it be any different than someone majoring in the sciences or business?

4. "You probably aren't as busy as someone majoring in Pre-Med."

This is an actual joke, right? You're joking? Between three hour classes every day of the week, rehearsals with scene partners, rehearsals for shows, auditions, work, voice lessons, dance classes, homework for theatre classes, and homework for gen ed classes, I pretty much have about twenty hours to myself per week, not including sleep. So no, I'm not less busy than anyone else.

5. "You should really think about the consequences of majoring in theatre. Are you prepared to wait tables for the rest of your life?"

Yes, I'm prepared to wait tables. I'm also prepared to work in my field because of my training, but thank you for your concern.

6. "How do you feel now that your show ended?"

Mentally, emotionally, and physically drained. In fact, I'd rather be sleeping right now, but I have to go strike the set while crying with the rest of my cast.

7. "Wow, you must have no homework."

I have so much homework, and all of my projects are group projects. I have to meet with my scene partner four times a week to rehearse our scene. I have to write paper after paper analyzing the same character. I have to practice for voice lessons, and I have to memorize my scene, and all of my audition pieces. Did I mention that I'm required to audition for every show? Yeah, I'm pretty busy with homework.

8. "Did you know (insert super famous actor here) didn't major in theatre? Look at how famous he or she is! A degree isn't necessary for you. You should major in the sciences."

Hi! I'm still going to major in theatre! I would like to improve as much as possible before throwing myself into the world of auditions, agents, and casting directors. Also, college is a great way for me to make connections. So, yep, I'm going to stick with a degree in theatre. Thanks.

9. "You were never a lead in high school, what makes you think you can be successful?"

Sorry I didn't peak in high school. I'm going to school because I'm not a perfect performer. If I was, I would be famous already, but thank you again for your concerns.