How valuable is a MFA to a beginning actor?

Question:I am just starting towards my BFA-just doing the general ed courses at a less expensive school for now-but am considering whether to go for an MFA as a long term goal or not. Any advice on this would be appreciated.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I am just starting towards my BFA-just doing the general ed courses at a less expensive school for now-but am considering whether to go for an MFA as a long term goal or not. Any advice on this would be appreciated.

The biggest benefit that comes from an MFA program is the intensive training you receive as well as connections you can make if you are in a strong program. Many MFA programs open doors that might not otherwise be opened to a beginning actor.

However the main reason to obtain an MFA is to leave yourself with options if you do not land enough acting jobs to pay the bills. With an MFA you can teach at any college. But if your truly only want to focus on acting and never want to consider being a professor you would be better off studying at and obtaining your Bachelors at a performing arts college that in the final year exposes you to agents and gives you ample performance opportunity.

I think that most of the time becoming a successful actor is more dependent on your success in auditions and your ability to attract a good agent who will market you to directors and whomever else is hiring.

That said, getting an MFA will allow you to work in "real" jobs which will keep food on the table consistently while you continue to pursue your dreams. Just don't fall into the trap of avoiding auditions and chances to act in order to concentrate totally on your degree. Try to balance both.

An MFA in what?

I have a very good friend who has an MFA in Acting from Stanford University, no less.

He is an Insurance salesman.