Actors endure long periods of unemployment, intense competition for roles, and frequent rejections in auditions.
Formal training through a university or acting conservatory is typical; however, many actors find work on the basis of their experience and talent alone.
Because earnings may be erratic, many actors supplement their incomes by holding jobs in other fields.
Job opportunities for producers and directors in motion pictures, and in films for television, are centered in New York and Los Angeles, however, small studios exist throughout the country.
Formal training through a university or acting conservatory is typical; however, many producers and directors find work on the basis of their experience and talent alone.
Because earnings may be erratic, many producers and directors supplement their incomes by holding jobs in other fields.
Many dancers stop performing by their late thirties, but some remain in the field as choreographers, dance teachers, or artistic directors.
Most dancers begin formal training at an early age—between 5 and 15—and many have their first professional audition by age 17 or 18; becoming a choreographer usually requires years of experience.
Dancers and choreographers face intense competition; only the most talented find regular work.
Earnings from dancing are usually low because employment is irregular; dancers often supplement their income.
These jobs require immense overall knowledge of the game, usually acquired through years of experience at lower levels.
Career-ending injuries are always a risk for athletes.
Job opportunities will be best for part-time coaches, sports instructors, umpires, referees, and sports officials in high schools, sports clubs, and other settings.
Aspiring professional athletes will continue to face extremely keen competition.
Part-time schedules—typically at night and on weekends—intermittent unemployment, and rejection when auditioning for work are common; many musicians and singers supplement their income with earnings from other sources.
Aspiring musicians and singers begin studying an instrument or training their voice at an early age.
Competition for jobs, especially full-time jobs, is keen; talented individuals who can play several instruments and perform a wide range of musical styles should enjoy the best job prospects.
Many fitness and personal training jobs are part time, but many workers increase their hours by working at several different facilities or at clients' homes.
Most fitness workers need to be certified.
Employment is expected to grow much faster than the average.
A bachelor's degree is usually the minimum requirement, but many athletic trainers hold a master's or doctoral degree.
Long hours, sometimes including nights and weekends, are common.
Job prospects should be good in the healthcare industry and in high schools, but competition is expected for positions with professional and college sports teams.
