As the back-to-school season kicks off, students everywhere are stocking up on notebooks, pencils, and planners. But for actors, especially those committed to developing their craft, the “school year” looks a little different—and so do the supplies. Whether you’re heading into your first acting class or returning to your studio after a summer break, having the right tools can set the tone for a powerful and productive year.
Here’s your acting-specific back-to-school supply list to help you step into the new season with focus, creativity, and confidence.
1. A Dedicated Acting Journal
Keeping an acting journal is a must for any serious performer. Use it to reflect on your classes, track your emotional work, jot down character insights, capture notes from scene study sessions and maybe even manifest your next booking. Consistent journaling builds self-awareness and helps you grow both technically and emotionally. Plus, if you’re ever feeling stuck or uninspired, you’ll know you have all your acting tools, dreams, and realizations down in one place.
Pro tip: Choose one with plenty of space and a durable cover. Decorating it will also give you a sense of creativity and ownership over it, and will make it easier to remember to bring it with you everywhere.
2. Sides Organizer & Audition Storage
Received sides from an audition that you’d love to retape for your reel? Did you work on a script that you absolutely loved and know you’ll want to re-read again and again? Is your laptop telling you you’re running out of storage and now you’re panicking because you can’t edit your audition? Make sure you have a place to easily store and organize your sides and clips now, before it gets crazy. This can be an app, an online storage website, or an external hard drive (highly recommended).
3. Updated Headshots & Resume
Back to school is a perfect time to refresh your acting materials. Do your headshots reflect how you currently look and the types you’re aiming to book? Did you take an improv class or land a role in a short film since your last edit? Have your headshot and resume ready to go—not just for auditions, but for class opportunities, showcases, and networking events. Don’t know where to start or need help breaking all this down into actionable steps? Join our Actor’s Salon! We coach one-on-one and also lead intimate, weekly Actor Accountability Salons. In both settings, we approach the actor as an individual – you will be given practical week to week tasks to do so you can take control of your career!
4. Self-Tape Setup (If You Don’t Have One Yet)
Self-taping isn’t going anywhere. If you haven’t yet created a reliable setup, now’s the time. Some lights, a tripod, a phone with good resolution, and a neutral backdrop are all essentials for producing professional-looking tapes. If you can’t afford the high-end stuff yet, don’t sweat it. Just make sure you have what you need to be seen and heard clearly.
5. Acting Books to Inspire & Educate
No matter where you are in your journey, acting books keep your mindset sharp and your toolkit growing. If you want a full list of recommendations, check out our previous blog: Summer Reading List: Some of the Best Reads for Actors
6. A Creative Community
This one might not fit in a backpack—but it’s essential. Surrounding yourself with other driven, supportive actors fuels your artistic growth. Whether it’s a workshop, a playreading group, or a studio like John Rosenfeld Studios, connection breeds confidence.
Ready for Your Best Acting Year Yet?
At John Rosenfeld Studios, we believe every actor deserves the space, guidance, and support to step into their fullest potential. As the school year begins, now’s the perfect time to refocus your energy, set new goals, and recommit to your craft. Our faculty and community help actors reconnect with their truth, refine their craft, and shine authentically in every role. Whether you’re recovering from burnout, rediscovering your spark, or simply staying sharp during the off-season, this is your chance to set your personal and professional goals for the year and ace your own report card.
Acting Classes in Los Angeles & Online – Class is in Session!
Whether you’re just starting out or leveling up, our acting classes—offered both in-person and online—are your stage to grow, explore, and radiate confidence. With a focus on scene study, technique, and audition prep, you’ll fine-tune your craft in a warm, dynamic environment designed to reignite your passion. It’s the perfect time to shake off the rust, deepen your emotional connection, and keep your skills sizzling between bookings.
Audition Coaching – Audition Anxiety? We’ve Got Your Back.
Got a high-stakes audition that feels like a final exam? Our professional audition taping and coaching services will help you walk in cool, calm, and fully prepared. We’ll break down each beat with you—so you’re not just memorizing lines, you’re showing up, glowing with confidence, and ready to light up the room.
Workshops & Private Consultations – Great Extracurriculars for Actors
Our personalized workshops and one-on-one consults are designed to sharpen your skills, refresh your mindset, and realign your goals. Whether you’re seeking expert guidance on your career path or practical feedback from seasoned casting professionals, this is your chance to level up. Think of it as a focused, supportive deep dive into your craft. This is your actor’s new year reset—with purpose and power.
Join John Rosenfeld Studios and Get Back to School!
A successful acting career doesn’t pause when summer ends—it levels up. At John Rosenfeld Studios,we help you refocus your craft, sharpen your skills, and reignite your creative drive. This back-to-school season, join our community and take your next bold step as an artist.