Sophie Studzinska

What is your name and what did you study?

My name is Sophie Studzinska, and I studied Drama and Theatre Studies and then a PGCE in secondary Drama.

Why did you choose Chester?

After visiting several other universities, Chester was the perfect fit. I was impressed with the facilities at Kingsway campus and instantly felt at home. The lecturers were passionate about their subjects and were keen to support students in their chooses career paths.

Another reason I chose Chester was the amount of support offered to students, from wellbeing support to assignment writing support, there really was help in every aspect of university life.

What did you enjoy most about your course?

When starting my degree I knew I wanted to pursue a career in education so the most enjoyable thing for me was being able to plan my degree around my future career. I was able to select from a wide range of modules and tailor my degree towards education. Through my module selection I was able to make connections with industry professionals and work/perform In a variety of settings.

I also enjoy the amount of leadership opportunities the University offered. During my time at Chester, I was the Drama student representative for 3 years in addition to representing the wider faculty, this was something I continued with during my PGCE.

Do you have any advice for someone who is thinking about a career in Drama?

Regardless of subject it’s important to get a clear understanding of the career pathway you are considering. In my experience it was important to really understand what working in education would be like. I began working with young people, facilitating workshops before taking on a teaching role at the Pauline Quirke Academy during my undergraduate degree. This allowed me to familiarise myself with this career and confirm that teaching was my passion.

What graduate role have you commenced? What area(s) are you working in and what does this entail day-to-day?

After completing my Postgraduate Certificate in education (also at Chester) I secured a teacher of Drama role at Sandbach High School and Sixth Form College. As part of my role I teach Drama to secondary school students aged 11-18, in addition to this I am also a form tutor for a year 9 form.

How did your time at Chester prepare you for your current role?

Through being able to select modules which were relevant to my career path I felt extremely well prepared to then complete my PGCE. Through being able to engage with key research surrounding education I felt it broadened my understanding of teaching.  

I was able to explore the work of some truly inspiration Drama educators such as Ken Robinson, Dorothy Heathcoat and John Doona who have massively shaped the teacher I am today.