Hey everyone, I could really use some advice from people in the music/audio industry.
I graduated high school last year and started studying audio engineering at uni this year, but I ended up failing my first trimester. A big factor was untreated ADHD, I’ve only just started medication recently, so I’m still figuring things out.
Now that I’m on break, I’ve been rethinking everything and I really don’t feel like going back to uni is the right move for me right now.
I’m based in Brisbane, and I’m considering trying to get a job at a music store while also applying for internships or entry-level roles in live events, audio, or AV. My thinking is that getting hands-on experience and being around the industry might suit me better than jumping straight back into study.
I also play in a band and have a bit of experience teaching kids guitar, so I’ve thought about picking up some beginner students as another way to stay involved in music and earn money.
Right now I work about 10 hours/week casually at a jewellery store, so I do have some income, but I’d likely need to transition into something more music-related if I go down this path.
One of my biggest concerns is the cost of uni. I don’t want to keep failing or feeling disengaged and end up with a large HECS debt (potentially $80k+) for a degree I’m not even sure I’ll use. Part of me feels like I’d rather start building real experience in the industry now instead.
Another option I’ve thought about is going to TAFE later instead of uni, since it seems more practical, easier then uni while still being structured for what I want to do.
I guess where I’m stuck is:
- Is it a bad idea to leave uni this early, even if it doesn’t feel right?
- Would trying to break into the industry through retail + internships/entry-level AV jobs be realistic?
- Has anyone here taken a similar path, especially with ADHD?
- Would you recommend sticking it out at uni now that I’m medicated, or taking time to work and reassess?
- What’s the best way to start building a career in the music industry at 18?
I know this is something I really want to pursue long-term, I’m just unsure what the smartest first step is.
I’m open to honest opinions, I just don’t want to make a decision I’ll regret later.
Thanks in advance 🙏