After year 12, Arj didn't really know what he wanted to do with his life, but thought he might find out while attending community college. At the age of 19 he tried stand-up comedy on a dare, and never looked back.
Starting out as a comedian can be challenging and like many other aspiring performers, Arj found that a skill or trade can be just the thing to fall back on. Although he had no formal training, Arj worked as an assistant to a wall paper hanger for extra money, and learned many valuable skills along the way.
Over a decade later, he has developed a large international fan base as a stand up comic, an actor in the successful HBO series Flight of the Conchords and the voice of an award winning internet cartoon series, in addition to an ever growing list of television and radio appearances.
So if you still aren't sure what to do after school- you're not alone. A good way to find out is to start exploring things you like doing- whether it be acting, car racing, baking or fixing TVs! Signing up for a vocational course or doing an apprenticeship is a great way to get a taste of life in whatever field you are interested in. You can never tell where your journey will take you, and with a bit of hard work, anything is possible.
Like any job, being a world famous entertainer has its downside. Overpriced airport food, cafes that only serve breakfast ‘til noon, and uncomfortable hotel pillows seem to be Arj's biggest complaints. This doesn't stop him from loving his lifestyle though. He says his career is incredibly rewarding and he enjoys spending time between his busy schedule meeting new and interesting people, exploring new cities and the great outdoors. Check out his website www.arjbarker.com to read more about life as a professional funny man!
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