When I first started looking for acting courses, I assumed I’d end up at a conservatoire or drama school – the “traditional” route everyone says is the next step if you’re serious about acting. I pictured classical scripts, strict voice and movement classes, and those dawn-till-dusk rehearsal days. But honestly, something about that never quite felt right.
I’ve always loved acting, but what draws me in isn’t just performing; it’s the collaboration, creativity, and process of building something from scratch with other people. I wanted to be somewhere where ideas bounced around the room, where I could experiment, direct, research, and just play. Conservatoires felt a bit too narrow, too focused on one idea of what an actor “should be”. Then I found Arts University Bournemouth (AUB), and everything clicked.
From the start, it stood out. It wasn’t just a university, but a creative ecosystem. Every course connects in some way: actors work with costume designers, filmmakers, animators, and more. I realised I didn’t want to be stuck in a bubble surrounded only by actors. I wanted to be part of a creative world that reflects the industry. That sense of community was something I could feel before I even started. When I visited campus, everyone I met had such a genuine passion for what they did. There was a warmth and openness that made me feel like I’d found a place where I could belong. It wasn’t about competition; it was about connection.
Another
big thing for me was the creative freedom AUB offers. The BA (Hons) Acting course
encourages you to explore, question, and experiment. It’s not just about
perfecting a Shakespeare monologue; it’s about understanding why a character
behaves the way they do, how voice, movement, and psychology intertwine, and
how to bring your own truth to the work. What I love most is that AUB doesn’t keep
you in one lane. Acting is my main focus, but I’ve also been able to try
directing, stage management, and research-based projects. The tutors really
encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and discover new sides of
yourself. Through that, I’ve realised I’m not just a performer – I’m a
storyteller.
If I could go back to when I was filling out applications, I’d tell myself one thing: trust your instincts. Pick the place that excites you, challenges you, and makes you feel seen. For me, that was AUB and I’m so glad I chose it. AUB’s approach has given me confidence in my artistic voice. Every project has been a chance to grow, collaborate, and express something real. Whether it’s devising a show, filming a scene, or exploring theatre through research, I’ve always been trusted to take creative risks, and that trust means everything. If I’d gone to a conservatoire, I think I might have missed that freedom. Technical perfection is great, but AUB has taught me that performance isn’t just about precision – it’s about authenticity. Connecting, questioning, and expressing something true.
Looking back, I can’t even pick one “stand-out” moment, because they’ve all been special in their own way. From devising with my classmates and late-night rehearsals that turned into laughter fits, to the thrill of performing something we built from scratch – every experience has been fun, fulfilling, and full of learning. What’s stayed with me most is the people: the friends, the collaborations, the tutors who genuinely care. They’ve shaped me both as an artist and a person.
There’s something amazing about being in a place where everyone’s creativity feeds into everyone else’s. You never feel like you’re on your own here. Now, heading into my final year, it’s bittersweet knowing it’s nearly time to move on. I’ve grown so much at AUB, not only as a performer, but as a creative thinker. I came here wanting to train as an actor, and I’ll leave understanding how performance connects to so many corners of the creative world.
Choosing AUB over a conservatoire was hands down the best decision I’ve made. It gave me space to explore, collaborate, and figure out who I am as an artist. I’ve learned that acting isn’t about fitting into a mould – it’s about breaking it, reshaping it, and finding your own way to tell a story.
