In working with thousands of students and young graduates from around the country, I am alarmed at the growing number of young people coveting careers in Hollywood and sports who really haven't thought careers in these areas through. My problem isn’t so much the interest, but the delusional attitudes of some wanting to enter these entertainment industries who haven't done their homework, and are completely blind to the level of discipline, planning, superior talent, and professional savvy necessary to succeed.
Yes, there are some great opportunities in the entertainment industry, and some are very exciting and have great earning potential. Yes, we need more African Americans not only as artist and athletes, but as production and business leaders in these industries. But can we keep it in the "HD" for a moment. Sports and entertainment are high-risk and complex industries to succeed in, and just because you think you look good, or think you can "talk a good game," or have had some fun taping your friends with your camcorder, doesn't qualify you to be the next big thing in Hollywood--trust me, many have been there before! For some of you, you definitely have the exceptional talent and have demonstrated the supreme discipline to take a calculated risk at the sports and entertainment worlds--great broadcasting, MBA and Law programs will assist you in developing your talents and making these dreams realities. But some of you… let’s just say you are probably more like the delusional contestants on American Idol, thinking you’re “working it,” but the rest of the world is seeing the likes of David Hong!
Stop dreaming of imitating others and live your own exotic and exciting lifestyle and career. Consider national and global opportunities, great salaries, and life experiences in –
-Technology and evolving global telecommunications media
-Teaching and educational opportunities in US and other exotic global locations
-The sciences in environmental and biological research throughout the world
-Sociological, cultural and other archaeological research around the world
-Exciting new entrepreneur opportunities throughout the US and abroad
-Hospitality and Real Estate industries around the world, particularly in developing global markets.
-Non-profit service industries meeting the needs of disadvantaged and needy in the US and around the world
-Architectural design, have you seen the great buildings going up around the world?
-Endless corporate and engineering opportunities
To be successful in any field you will need to be well studied, disciplined, coachable, innovative, and yes…mature. I agree that it’s amusing to be entertained by sports and entertainment industries, but don’t believe all the hype, consider living your own brand of success.
2 comments:
This is an article that a lot of young black men and women should read! Sometimes the job world can seem so small, with only a few choices that can make you a great name or allow you to have major impact on the world. Truth be told, there is more than sorts and entertainment! This has been a great help for me!
Kudos
Great motivation. I am a recent college grad and this is what i need to hear. I'm not necessarily trying to get into sports or entertainment, but i want to join the peace corps and i don't think my parents would approve of that being that they are very financially successful in other things, but i really want to get into global issues and help do my part in my government one day, so i think i'll take the plunge, anyway great article
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