Degree almost obtained, and want something else

[Johnsmith1003]

I've always had this prosperous and ambitious mindset that I would work out of the poverty I've grown accustomed to when growing up and work hard to gain a good job and buy a house etc. Now, though, I am six classes away from obtaining my Bachelors of Fine Arts Degree at my college to pursue computer visual effects and animation but I think this isn't what I want to do in life. I always liked the idea of being my own boss, and owning a business to achieve my lifelong pursuits but never got serious in doing anything about it. Now I really want to start taking small business classes and obtain my degree in that but I don't know how this is going to affect me in terms of finances and other aspects. I owe a substantial student loan from this BFA I'm about to acquire and I can take some business classes at a community college but I just don't know how to go about it. I feel embarrassed to have realized it so late in my degree but regardless, it happened. Anyone got any advice for me?

[FitChick]

Just take a few business classes that will help you set up your business. You don't need a degree.

[Phoe]

Since you're so close to your degree, go ahead an obtain it, but in the meantime prepare yourself to start pursuing what you really want. Get all your resources lined up now so that you'll be ready once you graduate

[Johnsmith1003]

Thanks for your guys' responses. I never really thought of educating myself instead of getting a 'degree' for it. I intend to get to the library and find some small business books, and some articles on the internet to start. Any other advice?

[jonsnuh]

Online courses provided like coursera.org, EdX, or other companies have some value too. They aren't expensive the certificate course, and some can be taken for free. This could be a good place to start.

[elseaacych]

I have found saylor.org to be well organized and comprehensive for a progression of courses in any particular area.

[Leigh 87]

It is rare to do well in life financially speaking with a fine arts degree and even a computer animation course...

 

You have to be one of the most insanely talented and affable people to be about to get out there and get out of poverty.

 

However, there is a lot of opportunity if you combine the fact you have a college degree, with your passion for animation AND turn it into a business.

 

 

You have a LOT more chance of getting out of a life of poverty if you do some sort of a business course; there are online business diplomas you could do while finishing your degree and also trying to seek full time work.