Starting acting school is one of the most exciting steps in an aspiring actor’s journey. You’re diving into a new world of creativity, self-expression, and opportunity. But as exciting as it is, the transition can also feel overwhelming. New students often make common mistakes that can slow their growth, create unnecessary stress, or even hold them back from getting the most out of their training.
If you’re about to begin at a Vancouver acting school, learning from the missteps of others can give you a head start. By knowing what to avoid, you’ll be better prepared to make the most of your training and set yourself up for long-term success. Let’s break down the biggest mistakes new students often make—and how you can avoid them.
GOING IN WITHOUT CLEAR GOALS
One of the most common mistakes is walking into acting school without knowing what you want to achieve. Do you want to work in film and television? Do you see yourself on stage? Are you hoping to gain confidence in public speaking, or do you want to pursue acting as a full-time career?
Without clear goals, it’s easy to feel lost or unsure of what direction to take. The best approach is to spend some time reflecting before your first day. Write down your goals and check in with them throughout your training. They don’t have to be set in stone—goals can evolve—but having a sense of direction will help you choose the right classes, focus your energy, and measure your progress.
BEING AFRAID TO TAKE RISKS
Acting is all about stepping out of your comfort zone. Yet many new students hold back because they’re worried about looking silly, making mistakes, or being judged by their peers. The truth is, every actor makes mistakes—that’s part of the process.
When you resist taking risks, you miss out on some of the most valuable learning experiences. Instructors don’t expect you to be perfect; they expect you to be willing. The sooner you embrace vulnerability and allow yourself to explore bold choices, the faster you’ll grow as a performer.
NEGLECTING TO PRACTICE OUTSIDE OF CLASS
It’s easy to think that showing up for class is enough, but acting—like any skill—requires practice. Some students limit their training to the classroom, but the best progress happens when you continue the work on your own time.
This could mean rehearsing scenes with classmates outside of class, practicing monologues at home, or watching films and studying performances. It might even mean joining community theater or improv groups to stay active. By putting in extra effort outside of class, you’ll internalize lessons more quickly and build stronger habits.
IGNORING THE IMPORTANCE OF VOICE AND MOVEMENT
New actors often focus heavily on memorizing lines and emotions but overlook two essential tools: voice and movement. Your voice needs to be strong, flexible, and clear enough to carry emotions and dialogue in any setting. Your body needs to be expressive and free from tension.
A Vancouver acting school will include voice and movement training, but some students don’t take it as seriously as scene work. Don’t make that mistake. These tools are the foundation of your craft, and neglecting them can limit the roles you’re able to play.
COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS
When you’re surrounded by talented classmates, it’s natural to compare yourself. Maybe someone delivers a monologue flawlessly, or another student seems more confident on camera. But constant comparison can lead to discouragement and self-doubt.
Remember, everyone is on their own journey. Some students may have prior experience, while others are starting from scratch. The point of acting school isn’t to be the “best” in the room—it’s to improve your skills and grow at your own pace. Focus on your progress, not how you measure up to others.
NOT BEING OPEN TO FEEDBACK
Feedback is one of the most valuable parts of acting school. Instructors are there to guide you, and their observations can help you grow in ways you can’t see on your own. But new students sometimes struggle with feedback, either by taking it too personally or ignoring it altogether.
The key is to see feedback as a gift. Even tough notes are meant to help you improve. If you approach feedback with openness and curiosity, you’ll discover breakthroughs that can completely transform your acting.
OVERTHINKING EVERY PERFORMANCE
When you’re new, it’s tempting to overanalyze every movement, word, and gesture. But acting isn’t about being robotic or perfect—it’s about being authentic. Overthinking often leads to stiff, unnatural performances that don’t connect with the audience.
Instead, focus on being present in the moment. Trust the preparation you’ve done, listen to your scene partners, and allow yourself to respond naturally. The more you let go of the need to control everything, the more authentic your work will become.
NEGLECTING NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
Acting school isn’t just about learning technique—it’s also about building relationships. Some students miss out on connecting with their peers, instructors, and guest speakers. These relationships can lead to collaborations, auditions, and opportunities down the road.
Make an effort to talk to your classmates, exchange contact information, and support each other. Show up for school events, participate in group projects, and stay open to meeting people. Networking is an essential part of the industry, and it starts with the people around you.
EXPECTING INSTANT SUCCESS
Many new students believe that acting school will immediately launch them into stardom. While training can open doors, it’s not a magic ticket to overnight success. Building a career in acting takes patience, persistence, and a lot of hard work.
The best way to avoid disappointment is to view acting school as the foundation, not the finish line. It’s where you learn the craft, develop discipline, and prepare yourself for the industry. Success comes from combining your training with persistence and real-world experience.
CONCLUSION
Starting at a Vancouver acting school is an exciting step, but it comes with challenges. By avoiding these common mistakes—like holding back, neglecting practice, or comparing yourself to others—you’ll set yourself up for a much smoother journey.
Acting school isn’t about being perfect from day one. It’s about learning, experimenting, and growing into the performer you want to become. If you show up with openness, commitment, and a willingness to take risks, your time in school will not only improve your skills but also prepare you for the opportunities waiting just outside the classroom.
Remember: every actor was once a beginner. What matters most is not avoiding mistakes entirely but learning from them and continuing to move forward. With the right mindset, your training in Vancouver can become the foundation for an exciting and lasting career in the performing arts.