When am I a "Professional?"

This is a fairly common question from students.....particularly those approaching the end of a milestone period in their training, such as the end of a degree. How do I know I'm ready to start in the real world? Other professions have easier ways to determine the answer to this question - internships, entry level positions etc... And while we have these in some aspects of what we do, the truth is, becoming a professional musician and the timing of this event can be harder to determine.
So, I figured I would share some thoughts,.

You our are a professional when.....wait for it......

When you start acting like one.
When showing up on time isn't an option
When you are done with school and don't wanna go back to school and want to start testing all of your theories as an artist.
When you have something to say as a musician.
When you have to courage to persue your passion and the skills to get someone to pay you.

There may be a degree, or you may meet all (or some) of these criteria before you get a degree. I was getting paid to play drums well before I was out of school, but there were things I couldn't do and didn't know....I was an apprentice pro...for lack of a better term.

So, You are a professional when you decide to act like one, to grow up and be mature. To speak plainly and directly to people, to remain calm and focus on the goal. To think about your actions, plan your career and enjoy the ride.

That is when you are a professional. Enjoy
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