How do I start an acting career when I'm still in High School?

Question:

How do I start an acting career when I'm still in High School?

I'm a seventeen year old high school student and I am extremely interested in becoming an actress. I took an Acting Workshop class at my school two years ago and I got a 90% A and the teacher said I have "Stage Precense". I've been interested in Acting as a career since I was five or six years old.

So, my question is this: What should I do to pursue a career in acting? I live on Long Island (close to NYC). Should I print up a resume now and take headshots after February (when I get my braces off) and then go on auditions over the summer?

My aunt says I should go to college, which I want to, but I want to make sure I've exhausted every effort to become an actress first. So should I take a year off to pursue acting and then go to college?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: You should go to college, but there are performing arts schools. Or while your in college, check out if there are any local productions or the theatre club. There is a way to get your education and be an actress and I'm sure many of the performing arts schools will give you the foundation to get your career off the ground.