Hey Teddy: "Where do I even start?"
plus, my complete guide to life as an artist in NYC
hey teddy!
i'm a junior vocal performance major, and a few months ago i decided it was maybe more practical to consider grad school/becoming a voice professor one day. BUT ive been getting feedback from a lot of mentor figures that think i have a shot at making it as a performer. so naturally this is giving me whiplash and a MAJOR existential crisis has ensued. my dream since i was little was to be on broadway (i lean more MT/crossover), and i want to give the nyc dream a fair chance.
soooo where do i even start when considering moving to nyc? what could i expect it to look like? as far as budgeting, apartments, survival jobs, voice teachers, etc? it just feels overwhelming and i don't want to let the dream die just because it's big and scary.
love,
a diva in distress
Hey Diva!
Deep breath. I know exactly why you’re spiraling, but let me tell you: you’re not alone. Every single artist who has ever felt that all-consuming passion has stood exactly where you are right now, staring into the abyss of “what ifs.” And yeah, it’s terrifying. It’s also proof that you have a calling. Your fear isn’t a warning sign; it’s a compass pointing you toward something big.
I get it, when you care this deeply the thought of making the wrong choice feels paralyzing. But allow me to set you free: there is no wrong choice. Whether you move to NYC and charge full speed ahead into performing or spend a few years in grad school, your path will unfold exactly as it’s meant to. But, if your gut is shouting “New York,” I say: listen to it. You can always pivot later, but you owe it to yourself to at least try.
And, don’t worry— I gotchu. Consider this your go-to guide for navigating NYC as an artist, from surviving the chaos to thriving in the hustle.
On budgeting
When you hear people chattering about how NYC is expensive, believe them. Rent is insane, food costs way too much, and somehow you’ll spend $30 just by existing. But if you really want to live here, you’ll find a way to make it work!
A few tips:
Apartments: Expect to have roommates (at least at first). I know tons of people who have met incredible roommates through facebook groups or friends of friends.
Cost of Living: Aim to have at least 3 months of living expenses saved before you move. It will make the transition way less stressful.
Side Hustles: Most performers wear multiple hats—teaching, hosting, nannying, temp work, etc. Flexibility is key so you can audition and take gigs as they arise.
On jobs & networking
One of the best pieces of advice I learned in graduate school was the art of informational interviews. A true game changer.
Make a list of people working in your dream field/have your dream job.
Send a short, personalized email to your top five, introducing yourself, mentioning something you admire about them and asking for a 30 min call.
Do not be discouraged if you don’t get many responses! It isn’t personal. Just keep moving down your list until one bites.
Show up prepared—do your research and ask well thought out questions (aka if you can Google it, do not ask it).
*and most importantly* DO NOT ask for a job. Just have a genuine conversation, lead with curiosity and share your experience and goals.
Successful people love helping others. Maybe they don’t have a job for you right now, but chances are, they’ll remember you when something comes up. This method has gotten me tons of work! And never forget— your network is your net worth!
On voice teachers:
NYC is FULL of incredible teachers, but finding the right one is personal. Take trial lessons with multiple teachers before committing! If you need help figuring out where to start, send me a dm and I can point you in the right direction.
NYC is chaotic and can feel overwhelming, but it’s also exhilarating with possibility around every corner. Follow your calling. You’ll figure it out as you go—everyone does. NYC is a place where dreams come true, and I’d love to welcome you here.
xoxo love,
Teddy
send all advice letters to siegel.theodora@gmail.com or on instagram
This piece has SO much valuable info 🏆