Gemma Watkins

What was your motivation for choosing that programme, what confirmed that decision in your mind?

When deciding that I wanted to pursue higher education, dance was the obvious choice for me as I have always had a burning passion for the art form. When looking at the University of Chester, the course modules aligned seamlessly with my ambitions and goals for the future, as it includes dance technique in contemporary and urban, filming and editing, applied practice and many more aspects. Through engaging with faculty, I gained a real sense of how supportive and experienced they were, which solidified my mind about studying at Chester. The allure of Chester city is an additional bonus to being a student here.

What attracted you to the University of Chester?

Chester has a certain charm that no other city can match. It is an ideal city for students as it provides the thriving city ambiance whilst feeling like a close-knit community. I was captivated by its beauty and that is what affirmed my choice of spending my next three years here. Additionally, the staff made me feel so supported in my future ambitions and they strive to foster a warm and encouraging learning environment.

What did you enjoy most about the course?

The modules within the dance course offer a good balance of practical and theory. Throughout my studies I can honestly say that I fully enjoyed and immersed myself into every module that was offered as they are all so different, entailing a variety of new skills for me to develop as a practitioner and performer.

Within the program the course leaders will also strive to organise as many trips as possible so students can experience new insights into the creative industry, from watching dance shows, vertical dance workshops and the Creative Futures week. This is a week where the University provides students with free workshops, presentations, Q&A’s and many more activities with industry professionals and graduates. This is an opportunity for students to gain connections and insights into how they can start their professional careers.

Now that you have graduated, where are you working, what are you doing or what are you working towards?

My next steps as a graduate are looking towards being an advocate for creative arts for young people, which was ignited by my studies on the course. Recently I have been successful in being awarded a substantial amount of funding through the Young Gamechangers Fund in cooperation with the Co-op Foundation. This will enable me to support groups for young people to voice their opinions on the creative arts in their own town. My goal for this project is to gain a spot on my local town board to become a decision maker and speak up for the youth in my community. I will continue to audition for performing roles alongside this because I still have a love for performing.

How has your degree helped you to continue to achieve your goals and aspirations?

The creative arts involve a variety of transferable skills including communication, confidence and resilience which are a few I will be taking with me into my career. It is important in this industry to believe in yourself no matter the outcome. The Work Based Learning module in particular helped me build my connections to continue my career and helped me get my name out there as a practitioner. Leading from this, the Negotiated Studies module was a perfect way to expand my knowledge in the field of study and prepared me to start my professional career.

Now that you have successfully graduated, what advice would you give to a current BA student or applicant?

My advice to current students would be to take every opportunity offered and soak everything in while you can. Also, finding a good balance between student life and your studies. It is important to work hard and prioritise your studies, however it can be overwhelming so remember to take all the help you can get and make the most of the University’s facilities whilst you have them. Also, throughout your studies, start making outside connections and gaining experience that could aid your future goals. Most importantly, just enjoy yourself! It goes by so fast, so make the most of it.