Do Both!!! work while going to college, and/or work in the summer.
I would have to say, as far as colleges go, look around at different types; conservatories, big state schools with graduate and undergrad programs and smaller state schools with no graduate programs. I say look at both because, generally in large state schools with graduate programs, undergrads don’t get to have large roles in major productions like a smaller school would. The major design roles generally go to the grad students, and the only design roles the undergrads get are student projects and smaller productions. However, to go along with that you may enjoy working directly under a graduate design student and learning from them, if you have no desire to take on a major
role like designing right away, however; I would prefer to make mistakes and experiment at sharpening my skills at a place where if something simply is not going to work there are people (professors) who will tell you, and its not generally going to cost someone money or you a future job. (JM2C) Although, again, if you plan on going from undergrad right into graduate school you may not mind not having large roles until you are a grad student. It really depends on your plans, your goals, and your likes/ dislikes. But again, look at multiple schools, they will all provide different situations and opportunities.
As far as working goes, if your school allows it, look for a job in a near by
theatre/
venue that you could work part time or work occasional gigs during the school year. When looking at schools, some provide these opportunities on campus in venues set up to host touring shows. Some also hire students to take on larger roles in the shop or other areas, so ask about any opportunities like that. And also definitely look for summer
stock! There are numerous things you could do during this time, including internships, so take full advantage of those things, but make sure you start looking early, don’t wait to look when school is out, because by then all of the theatres have hired for the summer and generally you will be SOL.
And also… make sure you enjoy yourself… cause if you don’t, then what’s it worth?