example of drama school personal statement

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Writing the Perfect Drama School Statement

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Crafting an impactful personal statement for drama school can be quite a daunting task. It is disheartening to observe that many applicants often receive inadequate guidance, leading to the creation of lackluster personal biographies rather than compelling statements. In the pursuit of gaining admission, applicants frequently resort to the “pick me, pick me, pick me!” approach, which fails to make a lasting impression. What most schools fail to realize is that they often lack the expertise to guide students on how to write an effective personal statement. Thus, many candidates end up with a subpar submission that does not effectively showcase their true potential and passion for drama. Aspiring students need to recognize the tremendous impact a well-crafted personal statement can have on the admissions panel, and they must strive to make their submission stand out as a powerful testament to their abilities.

THE WEIGHT OF YOUR DRAMA SCHOOL STATEMENT

Undoubtedly, one of the most common misconceptions among auditionees is that the personal statement’s significance pales in comparison to their acting abilities. While it is true that acting prowess holds substantial weight in the evaluation process, discounting the influence of a compelling personal statement would be a grave mistake. The moment an applicant places that sheet of paper before the admissions panel, they essentially offer a glimpse into their personality, aspirations, and potential. Given that this piece of writing can significantly influence the panel’s decision, it is crucial to ensure that the personal statement is nothing short of remarkable. By infusing the statement with authenticity, passion, and confidence, candidates can increase their chances of leaving a lasting impression on the evaluators.

OPPORTUNITY

The task of writing a personal statement is not to be underestimated; it presents an unparalleled opportunity for an applicant to speak for themselves. However, this opportunity comes with great responsibility. As a prospective drama student, one must ponder over the message they wish to convey through their personal statement. The first step in this process is to ask oneself, “What do I want the reader to know, think, feel, and do after reading my statement?” By employing a thoughtful approach that aligns with the know/think/feel/do framework, candidates can strategically plan the content and structure of their personal statement. Articulating specific objectives for the reader’s takeaway ensures that the writing remains focused and impactful.

CREATE A NARRATIVE

Aspiring drama students should also consider a few essential questions to answer in their personal statements to create a well-rounded and compelling narrative. Firstly, why are they applying for a particular acting course at a specific school? If possible, candidates should conduct thorough research on the course and offer specific evidence to support their choice. A vague response such as, “It’s a practical course,” lacks depth and conviction, as every drama school typically offers practical training. Therefore, candidates must delve into the unique aspects of their chosen program and articulate their reasons for pursuing it.

Another critical question to address in the personal statement is the reason behind the applicant’s profound interest in acting and their aspirations for a future career in this field. While it is understandable that many have nurtured dreams of becoming an actor from an early age, it is essential to elucidate what aspects of acting and the profession particularly intrigue them. Demonstrating a thorough understanding of the profession and the journey ahead is a powerful way to showcase one’s commitment and passion.

SHED SOME LIGHT

Furthermore, the personal statement should shed light on the candidate’s suitability for the chosen course. This goes beyond simply recounting high school experiences in a musical or theater production. Instead, applicants should focus on identifying and highlighting the specific qualities, skills, and background experiences that make them uniquely suited for the course. Admissions panels are interested in candidates who possess the qualities that align with the demands of a rigorous drama program.

PAST EXPERIENCE

In addition to discussing past experiences, the personal statement should provide insights into how the candidate’s current or past education relates to studying acting. This is an opportunity to demonstrate that the decision to pursue acting is not a spur-of-the-moment one. By illustrating the progression and commitment to acting thus far, applicants can provide a compelling narrative of their journey and showcase their genuine interest in the craft.

SHOW YOUR PASSION

A candidate’s passion and dedication to acting should be evident throughout the personal statement. To emphasize this commitment, applicants can detail the various steps they have taken to demonstrate their interest and devotion to a future in acting. Whether it involves reading plays for pleasure, attending theatre performances, delving into books on acting, or immersing themselves in documentaries related to the performing arts, showcasing their active engagement with the craft can strengthen the statement’s impact.

Finally, an exceptional personal statement should delve into the candidate’s unique personality traits that make them especially suitable for the chosen course. Whether it is maturity, creativity, imagination, resilience, or any other attributes, providing specific examples and anecdotes that highlight these qualities adds depth and authenticity to the statement. By showcasing these personal attributes, applicants can illustrate how they align with the requirements and expectations of a rigorous drama school program.

SELF-MARKETING

As applicants navigate the process of composing their personal statement, they must keep in mind that this piece of writing is, in essence, a marketing tool for themselves. Therefore, honesty, directness, and authenticity are paramount. While it may be tempting to craft a statement that caters to perceived expectations, such an approach often results in generic, wishy-washy content. Instead, the personal statement should reflect the applicant’s true self and provide the admissions panel with an intimate and genuine insight into their character and passion for acting.

In conclusion, crafting an exceptional personal statement for drama school is a multifaceted task that requires careful thought, introspection, and honesty. Aspiring students must seize this opportunity to leave a lasting impression on the admissions panel by showcasing their passion, commitment, and suitability for the chosen course. By addressing critical questions, highlighting relevant experiences, and infusing the statement with authenticity, candidates can create a compelling narrative that sets them apart from other applicants. As they embark on their journey into the world of acting, a well-crafted personal statement can be the key to unlocking the doors to their dreams. For those seeking guidance or coaching throughout the audition process, reaching out for assistance from professionals, such as those at [email protected], can prove invaluable in refining their personal statement and enhancing their chances of success.

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Creative Drama School Personal Statements to Consider

Table of Contents

Crafting a creative and captivating personal statement for drama school applications doesn’t have to be a difficult task.

It requires thought-provoking language that captures the reader’s attention and conveys your passion for theater. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

By considering examples of previous outstanding submissions, you can draw inspiration from those who’ve come before while also exercising your creativity. We have some helpful tips on using dramatic flair to craft original and engaging personal statements for your drama school application.

In addition, we have drama school personal statement examples for you to read through for inspiration.

Simple Tips for Writing an Effective Drama School Personal Statement

Here are some simple tips that can help anyone to write a great drama school personal statement.

Keep It Concise

Writing a great personal statement for drama school does not require lengthy dissertations. Rather, it requires carefully worded paragraphs that convey your passion for the craft and demonstrate your unique talents. Aim to be succinct to grab the reader’s attention quickly and avoid excessive fluff or unrelated information. 

Be Original

Looking at drama school personal statement examples from past applicants can be helpful. However, remember that you must create a unique statement if you want to stand out. Use creative language to paint a vivid picture of yourself and your capabilities. You should do this while still being true to who you are as a person and an artist. 

Showcase Your Best Self

Dramatic flair is important, but don’t use overly-dramatic words or phrases. Stick to showcasing your genuine abilities in a way that will captivate the admissions committee. Highlight any training experiences or awards that you have and emphasize how they have shaped you into the actor you are today. 

Demonstrate Passion

Your statement should display your enthusiasm for theater and explain why this particular program stands out to you above all others. Explain what drew you toward this specific institution. In addition, express why their classes or professors would help hone your skills in ways other schools couldn’t. 

Embrace Adversity

In some cases, sharing stories about moments of difficulty or failure can help bolster your application. These types of stories can demonstrate resilience and growth. Discussing challenges faced in pursuit of success gives insight into the obstacles you have overcome. It allows readers to see the deeper human side of your story. 

Proofread and Edit

Don’t be in a hurry to submit the statement. Proofread and edit the statement to make sure there are no errors. Sometimes, you can ask another person to read through and offer suggestions. The ultimate aim is to make sure the statement is as perfect as possible.

Drama School Personal Statement Examples

If you need drama school personal statement examples , you’ll find a couple of them in this section.

I am excited to apply for admission into your prestigious drama school. I’ve had the pleasure of exploring the art of performing and playing with a subject that’s always been close to my heart. My enthusiasm for this craft has grown since childhood, leading me on an enriching path filled with unyielding ambition and resilience. 

I possess a diverse range of skills in acting, having honed them through countless workshops and courses. From musicals to plays, comedy to tragedy, I am always eager to learn more and expand my repertoire of techniques. Every performance is an opportunity to test myself and refine my strategies. 

My appreciation for theater extends beyond the stage, however. In recent years, I have discovered a burgeoning passion for writing and directing. I find immense fulfillment in constructing stories and characters from scratch, manipulating words and movements like pieces of a puzzle until everything fits together. This interdisciplinary approach provides a unique insight into the creative process, which I’m sure will serve me well at your esteemed institution. 

I pride myself on being able to collaborate effectively with others, evidenced by my work experience both onstage and off. As such, I am confident that I can make meaningful contributions within any production team or setting. Above all else, I am dedicated to making an impact in the world of dramatic arts. It would be an honor to do so in your drama school!

As I have come to understand over the course of my lifetime, theater is a craft that requires dedication and time for mastery. Through my career experience and natural affinity for this art form, I can say that I have amassed considerable skill in performance and production. During my recent decade-long foray into various theatrical roles, I’ve found myself immersed in various avant-garde performances. My experiences have only furthered my enthusiasm for this multifaceted profession. And now, it is time to hone these honed capabilities by furthering my studies at your esteemed drama school. 

I am an experienced veteran in the arena of theater, yet never content with complacency. As such, I embrace a journey of perpetual learning while cultivating an atmosphere of creativity and good faith among cast mates and peers. In addition to demonstrating strong organizational skills, I bring leadership abilities to projects in need. Whether writing scripts or hosting workshops, I seek out ways to propel those around me toward success. 

No challenge has been too daunting for me. I thrive on moving forward within complex situations, even if it involves extensive travel plans and the establishment of new networks. With my passion for collaboration, I have been able to accomplish many feats during my time as an actor thus far. Yet, I know there is still so much more to learn. 

The prospect of studying in a distinguished program like yours puts a sparkle of joy in my eye. A place where excellence and innovation intersects is what I hope to find in the pursuit of knowledge and advancement of my career goals. The theater is ever-evolving, and I feel strongly that investing in my education will give me the tools needed to stay competitive. 

I have a long-standing passion for the performing arts and have had the opportunity to explore many facets of this field. My experience has taught me that theater is an amalgamation of ideas, music, movement, and, most importantly, emotion. It is a way of connecting with others through creative expression. I am eager to pursue a degree in drama at the university to improve my understanding of the craft while broadening my theatrical knowledge. 

This desire has been further stoked by my involvement in various community-based organizations that focus on creating art out of everyday experiences. I have come to think of these activities as channels for self-discovery. They have allowed me to identify and explore novel ways of interpreting life’s tribulations. Through this exposure, I have learned how to project feelings and convey emotions more effectively. 

I am confident that acquiring a formal education will enable me to hone my skills and become well-versed in all elements of theater. For instance, I plan to take classes in costume design, musical performance, scriptwriting, improvisation techniques and stage direction. Each of these could help shape my thinking around the nuances involved in becoming a professional performer. In turn, I believe such courses would empower me with the confidence needed to think critically about any artistic challenge that comes my way. 

My ultimate ambition is to demonstrate my growth as an individual while making meaningful contributions to the theater community. With this goal in mind, I’m certain that furthering my studies at your esteemed institution would help me reach new heights in my career.

A personal statement is an essential statement of intent and is, thus, something that must be written with care. No matter what school you are applying to, students must write strong, bold, and catchy applications if they want to stand out. If you can follow the tips in this article, you can easily write a personal statement that stands out.

For those that want to write their personal statements faster, you should consider using the new Hey INK tool . This tool can write different types of content for you in a split second. You only need to enter your instructions or prompts for the tool to create amazing outputs like the examples above.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Drama Personal Statement Examples

• 1 Personal Statement Example Links
• 2 Career Opportunities
• 3 UK Admission Requirements
• 4 UK Earnings Potential For Drama
• 5 Similar Courses in UK
• 6 UK Curriculum
• 7 Alumni Network

Personal Statement Example Links

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Ever been moved by the magic of the theatre and the transformative power of performance? Fascinated by the opportunity to bring characters to life and tell compelling stories through drama?

If so, a degree in Drama could be your perfect pathway. This vibrant field will immerse you in the art of dramatic storytelling, helping you hone your performance skills and understand the cultural and social significance of theatre.

Drama is an interesting and relevant choice for students because it provides them with the opportunity to explore their creative potential, develop communication skills, and gain insight into the human experience. Through the study of drama, students can learn how to express themselves through movement, dialogue, and character development.

They can also gain an understanding of how theatre works, and how to use it to tell stories and engage audiences. Additionally, drama can help students develop their critical thinking skills, as they analyze and interpret plays, characters, and stories.

Finally, drama can help students better understand the complexities of human relationships, and how to effectively communicate with others. All of these skills are essential for success in any field, making drama an important and relevant choice for students.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

A degree in drama can open up a variety of career opportunities. Depending on the individual’s interests, they may pursue a career in the performing arts, such as acting, directing, or producing. They may also find work in the film and television industry, as a scriptwriter, editor, or production assistant.

In addition, a degree in drama can be used to pursue a career in education. Drama teachers are in high demand in both public and private schools, and many universities offer drama courses.

Those with a degree in drama can also pursue a career in the music industry, as a music director, choreographer, or sound engineer.

Finally, those with a degree in drama may find work in the corporate world, as a public speaker, corporate trainer, or event planner. They may also find work in the marketing and advertising industry, as a copywriter or creative director.

UK Admission Requirements

In order to get accepted into the university course drama, applicants must have a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English Language and Maths. Additionally, applicants must have a minimum of two A-Levels in related subjects, such as English, Drama, Theatre Studies or Music. Other qualifications, such as BTECs, may also be considered.

The entry criteria for this course is quite similar to other courses in the same field, such as Theatre Studies or Music. The main difference is that applicants for the university course drama must have a minimum of two A-Levels in related subjects, whereas applicants for other courses may only need one A-Level .

UK Earnings Potential For Drama

The average earnings for someone with a degree in Drama can vary greatly depending on the individual’s career path. Those in the performing arts, such as actors, dancers, and singers, typically have lower salaries than those in technical or administrative roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for actors was $20.21 per hour in 2019. The median annual wage for directors and producers was $71,680 in 2019.

In terms of trends, the job market for those with a degree in drama is expected to grow in the coming years. According to the BLS, employment of actors is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029, while employment of directors and producers is projected to grow 11% from 2019 to 2029.

Similar Courses in UK

Other related university courses in the UK include Drama and Performance, Theatre and Performance Studies, and Creative Writing.

Drama and Performance focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of theatre and performance, while Theatre and Performance Studies focuses more on the history and analysis of performance. Creative Writing is more focused on the craft of writing, rather than the performance of it.

All three courses involve elements of creative expression, but the main difference between them is the emphasis of the course. Drama and Performance places more emphasis on the practical elements of theatre and performance, while Theatre and Performance Studies focuses more on the academic aspect of the subject. Creative Writing focuses on the craft of writing, rather than the performance of it.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in a university course in drama typically include:

• Theatre History and Theory: Students learn about the history of theatre, from its origins to the present day, and explore the theoretical foundations of theatre and drama.
• Acting: Students learn the fundamentals of acting, such as improvisation, character development, and scene work.
• Directing: Students explore the role of the director in theatre, from casting and staging to blocking and rehearsal.
• Playwriting: Students learn the fundamentals of playwriting, from structure and form to dialogue and character development.
• Design: Students explore the various design elements of theatre, such as lighting, sound, and set design.
• Performance: Students have the opportunity to take part in a range of performance activities, including student-directed plays, improvisation, and scripted readings.
• Research and Analysis: Students learn how to research and analyze plays, as well as how to critically evaluate theatre and drama.

Practical experience is an integral part of any university course in drama. Students have the opportunity to take part in a range of hands-on activities, such as rehearsals, performances, and workshops. These activities allow students to put their theoretical knowledge into practice and gain valuable experience in the field.

Alumni Network

One notable alumnus from the university course drama is Academy Award-winning actor and director, Tom Hanks. Tom Hanks graduated from the university in 1974, and has since gone on to become one of the most successful and beloved actors in Hollywood. He has starred in numerous iconic films such as Forrest Gump, Saving Private Ryan, and Cast Away. He has also directed several films, including That Thing You Do! and Larry Crowne.

The university offers several alumni events and networking opportunities for drama alumni. Alumni can attend the annual Drama Alumni Reunion, which is a social gathering for alumni to reconnect and reminisce about their time in the program. Additionally, the university hosts an annual Alumni Networking Night, where alumni can meet and network with other alumni and faculty in the drama department.

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Drama Personal Statement Example

Sample statement.

For as long as I can remember I have wanted to be on stage and perform in front of an audience. As a child I enjoyed every trip to the theatre my parents could manage to take me to from the Christmas pantomime to a birthday trip to see ‘Cats’.

Watching ‘Cats’ for the first time not only inspired me to take up dance lessons but also to persuade my parents to enrol me in a stage school when I reached school age. During my educational career I was dedicated to all my subjects, but in particular to Drama and English Literature as this allowed me to closely study some of the greatest plays ever written.

At secondary school I performed in various plays included ‘The Crucible’, ‘Grease’, ‘Oliver’, and mostly proudly, as Tallulah in ‘Bugsy Malone’. As well as giving me the opportunity to put in valuable hours on stage my time at school also allowed me to work behind the scenes in the costume department and gain valuable directing skills during my GCSE year.

One module of my GCSE Drama course that I really enjoyed was Theatre in Education. This involved putting together a play with a small group to teach 5-6 year olds an important message. Not only did we have to perform this play we also had to conduct a drama workshop with the class of children afterwards to help them think more about the anti-bullying message we portrayed in the performance.

Taking part in this module inspired me to pursue a career as a drama teacher as I feel that educating children through performing is one of the best ways to educate and develop young children’s skills.

Outside of school I am very much involved with my local theatre group which has given me a ‘universal’ understanding of all aspects of theatre including costume design, stage management, and producing and directing a production.

I hope that my time at university will allow me to further develop my performance skills and hone my craft both on stage and as a producer and director. 

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What to include in a Personal Statement

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Personal statement example ba (hons) drama and dance.

Submitted by Sophie

BA (Hons) Drama and Dance

I want to study Dance at university I have always wanted to do dance and I have found that it is something that comes naturally to me. I have always found dance and the preforming art industry, there are no two days that are the same. Every time I dance, I want to feel that I have improved in different abilities.

I am currently studying BTEC dance, drama and, photography. I have enjoyed studying dance at college, I have done a lot of different styles of dance in college and I feel that it is a good way discovering new ways of dancing. In a group, we have had to choreography a dance based on mental health and my part in this was to interrupt different movements that would link to mental health which I really enjoyed doing. Outside of lessons I always want to get involved with anything to do with dance because I want to learn more skill and develop my skills in all different ways in dance so I volunteered to do the college production which are always really fun and amazing to be involved in because I get to show of my skills as a dancer. In Footloose I was a main dancer and an extra in the play.

I also do dance outside of college at a dance school, the main style is contemporary and we also explore over dancers such as jazz dance. We do showcases to show off our ability, we do this twice a year in the local community.

Studying drama , I do practical and theory work. The practical has brought out a lot of my confidence, also the ability to perform in a way where I can show off my skills when performing. I have enjoyed studying Arto, I like his style because it very different and the play doesn’t have to make sense. Following this in a group we had to write are own script and perform it to the other students.

In photography, I enjoy this creative subject because all of my ideas are accepted and find I come up with many ideas. I like using light photography as there is a lot of different ways to use light photography, I have done my own work using light photography, I had to use a mobile phone to capture the image of light streaks.

I was an acrobatic gymnast for eight years, I have found that been a gymnast it has help me with my dancing when doing routines. and I was an assistant coach and I did this volunteer because I have a lot of passionate for acrobatic gymnastic.

I am currently employed at TGIFridays as a severing assistant and a door host. My confidence has developed through working here and has helped me with my communication skill as I feel comfortable speaking with customers. I have also learned skills that I need balance for, I have to three plates carry and three drinks carry; this is a skill that I have learnt over time and I’m still leaning over different skills within my job. I have also gained another skill which is working in a team.

In my spare time, my interest is an extension of my college studies but I also enjoy meeting up with friends.

Going to university is something that I want to do because I want to study further in an area that really interests me and it will also give me better career opportunities as well as different skills and knowledge. Dance has always been an interest of mine, this is where I can be the most creative and make it personal therefor I feel I would be really successful on this course.

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Postgraduate drama therapy personal statement example.

I have sat in audiences at the theatre and felt a sense of freedom. At times of stress I played my flute until day turned to night.

Painting offers me a window into my imagination and opens a door to escapism. Knowing the catharsis that emotional expression through the arts has offered me, I wonder, can I help others to attain well-being in the same way?

I have always been drawn to the creative arts and involved myself in some way throughout my life; from playing in school orchestras, acting in school plays, singing in bands for charity and completing murals and art displays.

Throughout my working life I have carved out an informal niche role as the ‘creative go-to’ person. Realising my talent and passion for the creative arts, I have been striving to find a role where I can marry my love of artistic expression with psychological explorations.

It is my view that the MA in Dramatherapy might offer me this balance. Whilst I am committed to every job role, I have always felt that something was missing.

When I learned about this course, it felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders as it seemed like a perfect opportunity to combine my creative and therapeutic skills.

I hope to be able to fuse my musical and artistic abilities to form a complimentary approach which could inform future Dramatherapy practice.

In 2001, I completed a BSc (Hons) in Psychology with Criminology at Roehampton University, achieving a 2:1. The course requirements led to two dissertations being compiled and submitted and during this time I was focused on a career in forensic psychology.

I started on my path to gain the experience needed to become a forensic psychologist, all the while gaining priceless life experience and an assortment of transferable strengths and skills. Throughout my academic experiences, there were times when personal circumstances were not ideal, however, I felt I worked well under the pressure, always remaining focused and driven.

I am aware that a requirement of this course is to undertake personal therapy. This is something I have experience of and would welcome further exploration into, in order to learn more about myself, my journey and my emerging identity as a therapist.

I value researching and learning about working environments, often by undertaking voluntary or seconded positions before committing to full-time contracts. This prevents me from jumping into situations unaware and unprepared. From 2006 - 2009, on a relief basis, I worked at HMP Wandsworth, a category B prison for males. My position was as a ‘link worker and the experience was invaluable.

My role led me to interactions with inmates whose offences covered a broad spectrum. I encountered many individuals who had been diagnosed with a mental illness and others with more than one presenting diagnosis; this allowed me to explore and deepen my psychological understanding in a practical sense, rather than just the knowledge I had gained from my degree.

My role allowed me to deal with sensitive issues, such as someone expressing suicidal ideation or presenting with self harm. Although art painted by inmates was presented on the high walls, I always felt the prison could have done more to enhance and encourage creative expression.

From 2007 – 2010, on a full time basis, I started working at a residential unit for adolescents with emotional and behavioural difficulties. This allowed me to work intensely with individuals over a long period of time, gaining a wealth of experience. Whilst at the residential unit, I took on the additional role of Activity Co-ordinator.

This role involved making a series of programmes for activities that were diverse, taking into account, healthy living, physical and educational pursuits.

The programmes were engaging and promoted positive interactions between young people and staff. Compiling these programmes allowed me to flap my creative wings.

We held art sessions and encouraged the use of the on site music studio and organised trips to the theatre. The young people would engage with the arts as an escape from the turbulent and sometimes frightening environment of the residential unit.

Many of these children commented rarely feeling a sense of achievement, however creative activities often gave them the feeling of self-worth that the education system was unable to provide for them.

Since April 2010, I have been employed at Broadmoor Hospital, a high secure psychiatric hospital for mentally ill and personality disordered males. My role was as a ‘Therapy Assistant’. I fully involved myself in day to day ward life and again enjoyed the more creative activities such as singing with the patients in the music room and completing artistic projects.

A number of patients reflected that the informal creative groups were more beneficial than the formal talking therapies. With this in mind, I began to be interested in exploring the significance, importance and impact of non-verbal approaches to well-being.

In November 2010, still at Broadmoor Hospital, I began my secondment in an area known as Newbury Therapy Unit. My role is as a ‘Nurse Therapist Assistant’.

It was here that I surrendered to my creative voice and unearthed my passion for Dramatherapy. I was aware that this department worked closely with the Arts Therapies Department to enhance the experience of therapy delivered to the patients.

The innovative and progressive ideas and concepts were a breath of fresh air. I started co-facilitating a cognitive skills group, which lasted for three months.

During this time, the process gave me a lot of confidence and built skills in facilitating groupwork. I was disappointed to learn that a psychodynamic group for Art and Drama was no longer running.

As part of my post, I have been assigned a clinical supervisor who is a Dramatherapist. The only feeling I can describe following a supervision session is one of enlightenment. After much thought and discussion with family and peers, I decided to start researching Drama therapy trainings.

I am excited to be able to enter into a relatively unknown field where my interest only spurs my curiosity and passion. A passion I hope you will give me a chance to express on the course.

In terms of hobbies, I have always been a keen theatre goer and enjoy musicals the most. I sit envious in the stalls inspired by the people on the stage. I also enjoy singing, and was part of a small band that sang to raise over £2500 for various charities.

As a shy person when I was younger, I threw myself into experiences that would demand me to step out of the shadows and this has helped me become more confidant and able to present in front of others.

I often go on holiday with my watercolours or at the very least a pencil and pad, so I can sketch.

Travel is a big part of my life, and I hope to visit every continent at some point. I also enjoy varied socialising activities; cinema, photography, laughing with friends and family.

In my spare time I find monologues on the internet and read them trying to embody the feelings of the characters. I also enjoy festivals, gigs and fancy dress.

I am a highly motivated and self-driven person with the ability to adapt to a constantly changing environment.

I have a positive outlook on life and I am willing to invest time and effort into pursuing my long term goals. I always strive to encounter any problem with an open mind and seek to achieve well-being.

I embrace training, reflective practice and supervision, as I see them as avenues for personal growth that will enhance my strengths and skills.

I take direction well, but also use my initiative to complete a task. I will take on constructive criticism in the view that it will only be offered to better my abilities. I am not afraid to ask questions and I do tend to pick things up quickly.

Due to my life and work experience, tenacity and abilities to work with others, I believe I would be a benefit to the future cohort of trainees.

Undertaking the MA in Dramatherapy will, I hope, enable me to develop the knowledge and skills to fulfil my innate purpose - helping others to attain well-being through the arts.

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This personal statement was written by Bernie-Fox for application in 2011.

Bernie-Fox's Comments

I window into my heart and soul!

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Very helpful.

Fri, 25/01/2013 - 01:24

This is the closest sample PS I can find for a Art Psychotherapy course i'm applying to at Roehampton University and others. You definately covered all basis when it comes to talking about your experiences and the many various qualities you have; which are suited to this course. Overall very well written, Puts me of a bit cos now I have to write one just as good. Did you get in to the course you applied to? I can see it was written in 2011 so you may be settled at your placement or even finished. I would like to have more info so I know what's to come.

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