Emma

Why did you choose to do a foundation year?

I have always had a huge passion for performing, and after deciding to refine my focus to acting, a foundation at GSA was the ideal opportunity for me to immerse myself in a creative atmosphere and learn a variety of new skills, techniques and disciplines. 

Before starting at GSA, I came from quite a high pressure academic background where I couldn't fully commit myself to what I loved to do, and so doing a foundation year allowed me to push myself in the creative direction I wanted before applying for BA programmes. 

The foundation has solidified my belief in myself as an actor to be able to progress into further training and a professional career, and the experience has been incredibly inspiring and influential to me.

What did you enjoy about it?

I have really enjoyed the wide range of projects and skills we have learnt, from improv and movement to singing and accent work. We are also given many opportunities to take part in projects each term, my favourite being the Shakespeare project where we worked with an experienced director to produce excerpts from various plays in a showcase. 

I really appreciate that we are frequently given feedback on performances to give us the opportunity to improve, and there really is a sense that our teachers are rooting for us to be the best we can be, and I have become really inspired by my potential due to their unwavering support.

What support have you received at Surrey?

One of the most invaluable aspects of my time on the foundation course has been the amazing sense of community I have felt with my course-mates. We support and encourage each other in every avenue, whether it be auditions and projects or personal achievements and events. Being immersed in a space with such hard working and skilled individuals has inspired me immensely, and there is truly a sense of family as we have built connections with like-minded people going into the industry. 

My course leader and teachers have been incredibly supportive and approachable, and have been there to offer feedback so I can progress and learn. I have really appreciated that they understand and value the fact that each person on the course is unique and brings their own qualities and experiences to their training, and so feedback is truly tailored to you as an individual.

How has your foundation year had an impact on you?

This past year has provided me with so many opportunities to grow as an actor and a person, and I truly feel I have progressed so far since the beginning of the course.

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

If you're considering doing a foundation - whether it's to find out if drama school training is for you before you apply for degree level or to progress your skills - I couldn't recommend it more. I have learned so much from this year, both as an actor and as a person, and I truly believe that if the opportunity presents itself to you, take it! 

Drama school can seem daunting to a lot of people, but this year has been a beautiful, life-changing experience and I wouldn't change it for the world. Each journey is different, and this course supports you to build your skills and work ethic to follow your path as a creative into the future.