What should i do when I get out of college....act?

Ok so i have a dream of being an actress...i know it sounds superficial, but i have had friends tell me my whole life and teachers i should get into the entertainment field. However, my parents don't like the idea of that industry so i have to go to college with something else in mind. I want to major in Economics and Literature. However, if i wanted to pursue acting should i get involved in plays in the area...(want to get into NYU) Then after i could do more in hopes of getting a job or agent....Please help me out here i need good advice from experience!! :) thanks!