For many college students passionate about art, music, or theater but pursuing those subjects as an academic major or career option, the prospect of keeping the arts in their lives can feel difficult. With busy schedules and a new campus environment, how can you possibly pursue these passions? However, there is a multitude of ways to remain involved with the creative subjects you love even if you don’t study them intensively.
Take college electives
One way to stay involved with the arts in college is to take elective, non-major classes that allow you to use your creative talents. You might have time in your college schedule to take a drawing class, a drama workshop, or a music theory course. It’s a good way to gain in-depth knowledge of something you’re already passionate about. And depending on your school’s requirements, if you take multiple courses you may be able to count them as a college minor or concentration.
Another way to learn about the arts is to take a class that may ultimately give you a deeper appreciation of the art form you love, even if it doesn’t directly involve creating. A music appreciation, cinema studies, or art history course might do the trick. If your course load is too heavy and you find you can’t squeeze in the time to take courses in the arts, never fear! There are still other ways to keep the artistic side of your life alive.
Related: 4 Things to Consider When Choosing Electives in College
Pursue individual lessons
Individual lessons are a good way to continue developing as a solo musician or visual artist. Every music program has its criteria for its lessons, so the best place to inquire about this is probably in the music department. Or doing some research to find a local artist who may take you on as a mentor could be a possibility. This could be a good way to take music or art lessons on a less formal basis, as the feedback is likely to be less intense than in a true course.
Pick up fun extracurriculars
Campus extracurricular ensembles or clubs are a popular and endlessly varied way to stay involved in the arts. For music, your college could have a choir, a capella group, an orchestra, a band or pep band, or a chamber music society. For theatre, there could be campus-wide productions like plays and musicals your school puts on or maybe an improv comedy group. For art, look for activities like figure-drawing sessions or a photography club, where you can meet with like-minded students. If you are religious, it's often easy to connect religion and the arts. See if your school has a gospel or other religious singing group. With so many options, there is sure to be a group that best suits your talents and interests.
Related: Making Time for Things You Love: How to Mix Schoolwork With Your Passions
Find opportunities at other colleges
If your school does not offer the classes or extracurriculars you want to be involved with, all hope is not lost. Your school might be part of a consortium that allows you to cross-register at other institutions with art and music programs, like the ProArts Consortium in Boston. Check to see if you can enroll in those arts classes or ensembles. You could also see if there are community theater, music, or art groups you could join nearby in local cities and towns. If you attend a local church, see if you could join their choir or use your artistic talents to help decorate or help with outreach projects.
Take it back to DIY
Finally, you can always remain involved in the arts on your own in your free time. If you need a specific space to do art or practice an instrument, you could contact the relevant department to inquire about practice rooms or studio use. Just try to make a little time each week to be creative in whatever way inspires you. Paint outside, play the piano in a common space, start a band with your friends, or take photographs. Just create because you can and you love it.
Related: Cultivating a Growth Mindset: How to Embrace Your Unique Creative Abilities
Even if you are pressed for time to join an extracurricular activity or set aside regular chunks of art, remember you can remain involved with the arts as a spectator and appreciate the things you love until you can find the time to participate again. Many schools have theater productions, concerts, and art shows that are open to everyone in the campus community. Take advantage of the opportunities at your fingertip!
Still worried about making time for everything you have to and want to do? Use these Top Tips for Juggling Schoolwork, Exercise, and Activities to find balance as a college student.
