Dominique

Why did you choose to do a foundation year?

I felt that a comprehensive foundation course would empower me to advance my acting techniques and skills in such a way that would allow me to not only audition for degree programmes more successfully but also enable me to make the most of my time on a degree course. Leading up to the foundation course, I had been involved in acting classes and community theatre, but I had hit a ceiling in my progression. 

After deciding to make a career pivot and pursue my ambitions of acting professionally, I decided I wanted to undergo the rigours of full-time intensive training and deepen my craft through a full-time degree and felt that a foundation course was the best path to getting there. 

What did you enjoy about it?

As someone who had never taken any movement or voice classes, I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to be exposed to other facets of actor training beyond ‘acting classes’. I was able to gain both an understanding and appreciation of how these branches of training intermingled with one another and how they could then be applied to your acting process – and the creative process more broadly.  

Our devising project gave students the opportunity to experience writing and performing their own work, which I especially enjoyed as a writer and someone who is interested in devising work in the future.  

My experience on the course further affirmed my desire to pursue a full-time degree upon completion of my foundation year. I enjoyed deepening my craft across the year and being surrounded by other students who were also impassioned by the pursuit of acting and who collectively fostered a supportive creative environment.  

What support have you received at Surrey?

Our course leader offered extensive support to those applying to degree programmes. He was always happy to have a conversation to address questions or concerns. Throughout the application process he offered feedback on audition material and performances. His enthusiasm to support across the process, including reviewing numerous self-tapes along the way, was always appreciated. 

How has your foundation year had an impact on you?

My time on the course has positively affected the next steps in my acting journey. Firstly, at the beginning of the course, I had planned on pursuing a BA in acting, however, by the time it came to applying to degree programmes, my mindset had shifted. I felt that the combination of my experiences and what I was learning on the foundation course made a one-year MA the more suitable path for me, rather than a three-year BA.  

What advice do you have for students thinking of doing a foundation year?

Know why you want to do a foundation year and what you want to get out of it because you will get out what you put into it. Be curious and openminded – you may enter the year with a certain idea of what you want to achieve and do next, then leave with new ideas about your future and objectives. 

Remember that the point of the year is to learn, if you were fully actualised in your craft there would be no point in training, so be bold and be comfortable with getting it wrong and making mistakes. Explore, ask questions, and take advantage of the resources being offered to you.