I decided I wanted to study performing arts as I wanted to gain more skills and experience in acting. I always enjoyed studying drama during my GCSEs and felt that I needed to continue pursuing this since I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. As I continued to study, I started to think about the next step I could take, which was to attend a drama school in London. I knew if I wanted to begin working professionally in the acting industry, this would be the route for me.
I chose to study at CWA due to the practical based style of learning it offered, which I believed suited me a lot better than the theory focused approach that sixth form has. Attending CWA allowed me to focus all of my energy on growing as an actor, artist and building my craft as a performer. The facilities were also another factor that made me choose CWA - there was an amazing theatre, fantastic studios and a library full of plays. It was everything I wanted in one place.
I enjoyed acting lessons the most. Over the two years, I was taught an abundance of different acting techniques, physicality and tutors passed on their knowledge about the creative industry. I thoroughly enjoyed being in the studio from 9am to 4pm - lessons were great and there was never a dull day.
One of my most favourable memories at CWA was performing in the Peter Pan Pantomime for Christmas in 2016. I played Wendy, which was one of the leading roles. This was also one of the only shows the acting students did with the musical theatre and dancing students. The experience itself was incredible, one that I thoroughly enjoyed throughout the duration and rehearsal process. The pantomime was performed over three nights and the audience was so engaged and energetic and the atmosphere in the theatre was wonderful. Everyone worked so hard as a collective, including the set designers and production team. They made our performances possible, for which I am so grateful.
After completing the course, I auditioned for drama schools. Whilst auditioning, I also began studying BTEC Level 3 Business Studies, making the most of my time to gain another qualification, giving me more knowledge and experience to prepare for university. After working hard for four years and leaving CWA with two qualifications, I was accepted on to my choices of universities from UCAS. Though I received offers from reputable universities across the UK, I knew there was only one that I needed to accept and attend. After a successful audition and interview, I was offered a place to study at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama on Contemporary Performance Practice: Performance Arts.
I found that CWA benefitted me as it gave me so many opportunities to grow and flourish as an individual. I was a class representative, a student representative and then a student governor during my time at CWA. I participated in these roles as I was very passionate about improving my student experience, as well as that of other students within the college. I was also nominated for the Student of the Year Award and achieved 2nd place.
I chose the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama because if its incredible facilities, its alumni successes and prestigious teaching reputation. The university offered me everything I needed to continue growing as a performer, allowing me to branch into the creative industry.
When I received my offer to study there, I was ecstatic. After three years of auditioning, I couldn’t believe I was finally going to drama school. It was an incredible feeling to see that all my hard work had paid off.