Did you take A levels or IB? Why?
I took A levels as I wanted to focus and dedicate myself to the subjects that matter to me. I really wanted to learn them at an intrinsic level, especially Drama and Media Studies. 

Why did you choose MST? What factors influenced your decision to accept it, and what stood out about the university?
I auditioned for multiple drama schools, which have around 2,500 applicants and often more each year. Yet what particularly stood out to me throughout all my auditions was the way in which MST encouraged me entirely to explore and experiment creatively, without any inhibition - beingsomething I believe is rare. During the audition, the panel prompted us to use our bodies in response to the music, space, and people around us. In addition, the teachers felt extremely supportive and kind. They wanted to know the real you and work with that. I remember leaving my audition feeling inspired and as though I had challenged myself. I felt this place was able to help me push myself to new limits whilst still encouraging me to be myself, so this was my reason for choosing this drama school over other offers. 

Why did you choose to pursue acting, and what interests you most about the subject?
I chose acting because from a very young age, I've always had an intense sense of curiosity about people. I would often analyse people and pay great attention to the smallest details. I became fascinated by people. In addition, I’m naturally quite expressive. Throughout exploring drama as a subject in my time at school and as a hobby, I noticed that I could actually utilise this skill creatively. A highlight for me was in Year 5, when I got to play a Spartan woman filled with strength and might. Ms Chapman, our Junior Head of Drama at the time, made me feel confident in my ability to perform. 

What interests me about this subject is its amazing way of connecting people to each other. This was evident during Sister Act, in which I experienced the power of a cast who supported and uplifted one another, and it was so fun to be part of a community. I also experienced this through my time performing in Blush, a short film directed by Ana Chavez. The film centres around the lives of teenagers growing up in Singapore and highlights the theme of diaspora. It was refreshing to meet people who understood that feeling and were able to express it on the screen so beautifully. 

What surprised you most during the university application process? If you could give one piece of advice to students currently applying to universities, what would it be?
The process for drama school applications consists of multiple rounds of auditions. What surprised me most was how rigorous the process was; it was quite an extreme period of time in my life. I had to fly back to the UK and back to Singapore to be considered for each round, on top of studying for my A levels and coursework. It was a very nerve-wracking yet rewarding experience. 

For example, one school took me from the second round to the final round on the same day, which meant going through an intense elimination process. Even after finding out I had made it to the final, I still had to wait to discover whether I had actually secured a place. The news can arrive at the most unexpected time, and in that moment, you find out whether all the time, effort and travelling have paid off.

If I could give one piece of advice to anyone auditioning or applying to drama school, it would be to show up authentically and be yourself every time you enter the room. Even when you face judgement, rejection or setbacks, trust that what is meant for you will find its way to you. I often remind myself of the quote: “Be yourself, so people who are looking for you can find you.”

What are you most looking forward to about university life?
I’m really looking forward to exploring Manchester and everything the city has to offer, while also meeting new people and making new friends along the way!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I hope to be pursuing acting professionally while spending plenty of time with my brother.