Katie Turner 

‘Blindness is licence to penetrate more deeply than the sighted might require.’
Ed Gritzner, K and Rabey, I. 2006. Theatre of Catastrophe New Essays on Howard Barker. London: Oberon Books.

On beginning university, I was a teenager in every sense of the word. I liked to spend the little money I had on drinking, sleep in late and live in a carefree manner. I am now a young adult with a job I can be proud of and a future I never dreamed of.
The Performing Arts course at the University of Wales, Newport opened my eyes to much more than simply acting or learning theory; it taught me about life, that is to say, my tutors taught me about life. I am now assertive, confident and have the ability to see things from the point of view of other’s.

I initially chose the course due to it’s beautiful location and intimate size. I have friends, both at the University of Wales, Newport and other universities, who have completed their degrees in classes of up to and over 100 people. Their reports tell me that they felt they weren’t given enough individual attention or support from their lecturers; at Newport this was not the case. I formed strong relationships with my tutors who helped me through my three years and assisted me in attaining a first class degree.

I am currently teaching English as a foreign language in Leeds, and will be leaving to take up a position as an Assistant Language Teacher in Japan in early March. While not the job I intend to keep for life, I see this as a stepping stone for positions yet to be discovered. I am to begin an MA in Critical and Cultural Theory at Cardiff University this September, a course that I hope will instil in me both the understanding and expertise needed for a future in academia and teaching.

My current aspirations and self belief can be largely attributed to my time at Newport. I hope many more can embark somewhat blindly, enjoy and reap the rewards of the Performing Arts course at the University of Wales, Newport.