BA (Hons) Drama and Dance

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I want to study Dance at university because I have always wanted to do dance and I have found that it is something that comes naturally to me. Dance has always been an interest of mine, this is where I can be the most creative and make it personal. I have always found dance and the performing arts industry fascinating; there are no two days that are the same. Every time I dance, I want to feel that I have improved in different abilities. Going to university is something that I want to do because I want to study further in an area that really interests me and it will also give me better career opportunities as well as different skills and knowledge. Therefore, I feel I would be really successful on this course.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

I am currently studying BTEC dance, drama, and photography. I have enjoyed studying dance at college, where I have done a lot of different styles of dance and feel that it is a good way to discover new ways of dancing. In a group, we had to choreograph a dance based on mental health, and my part in this was to interpret different movements that would link to mental health, which I really enjoyed doing. Studying drama, I do practical and theory work. The practical has brought out a lot of my confidence and the ability to perform in a way where I can show off my skills. I have enjoyed studying Arto; I like his style because it is very different, and the play doesn’t have to make sense. Following this, in a group, we had to write our own script and perform it to the other students. In photography, I enjoy this creative subject because all of my ideas are accepted, and I find I come up with many ideas. I like using light photography as there are a lot of different ways to use it. I have done my own work using light photography, capturing images of light streaks with a mobile phone.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

Outside of lessons, I always want to get involved with anything to do with dance because I want to learn more skills and develop my skills in all different ways. I volunteered to do the college production, which is always really fun and amazing to be involved in because I get to show off my skills as a dancer. In Footloose, I was a main dancer and an extra in the play. I also do dance outside of college at a dance school, where the main style is contemporary, and we also explore other dances such as jazz. We do showcases to show off our ability twice a year in the local community. I was an acrobatic gymnast for eight years, and I have found that being a gymnast has helped me with my dancing when doing routines. I was also an assistant coach, and I did this voluntarily because I have a lot of passion for acrobatic gymnastics. I am currently employed at TGI Fridays as a serving assistant and a door host. My confidence has developed through working here, and it has helped me with my communication skills as I feel comfortable speaking with customers. I have also learned skills that require balance, such as carrying three plates and three drinks; this is a skill that I have learned over time, and I’m still learning different skills within my job. I have also gained another skill, which is working in a team. In my spare time, my interest is an extension of my college studies, but I also enjoy meeting up with friends.