Dentist and Actress at the same time?

Stop worring about what your parents want you to do. 'An actors career is only about probably 5-6 years' IS NOT true. You can act until you are above 60, or even later at which stage you can take up a teaching job. Don't be a dentist, that's hellish boring. You are your own person, you don't have to be what you parents want.

Also, some additional input, an acting degree is a huge sacrifice. I also love acting but am not enjoying my theatre degree at all - hours are ridiculous and what we do just isn't fun. But if you love it, then GO FOR IT. You have nothing to lose. Give acting a try first and if it doesnt work out for you, resort to your kak dentistry job.

Don't ever let other people tell you you CAN'T do something. A very wise person once said that if you do, you are letting other people control your DESTINY. And that is exactly the opposite of why you were brought into this world! You can do it- dream big. If you want to pursue a career as an actor, GO FOR IT! The only reason why actors only get 5-6 years (as you may think- it's not true!) is because they're not willing to keep trying. You need to be able to fall and instantly get back up. It's a rigorous ride, but if your passion is so strong it means you will keep trying, then by all means go for it.

Can't wait to watch your movie, Cheers.

How about this one to serve both your needs.

Go to college and study your sciences really hard and go to dental school. While you are in college, get involved in a local theater program and do some acting for fun.

After you are out of school and pursuing your career as a dentist, you can always do some acting on the side.

While nothing in life is guarenteed, going to school, getting great grades and pursuing a career as a dentist is going to provide a much more reliable life and lifestyle than pursuing an acting career. 99% of young people hoping to "make it big" as an actor, end up waiting tables for a living. Not that waiting tables is bad (I've done it) - but unless you are really good and really lucky, you are not going to make a sustainable living as an actor. Talent alone wont get you there.

If you are pulling in $150K as a dentist, you'll have the freedom to pursue any interests you like - including acting on the side.

I think your parents are looking out for your best interests.

Best of luck with it.