My time studying Dance & Choreography BA(Hons) at Falmouth University

Dance & Choreography BA(Hons) graduate Dorka Zatonyi shares their experience of life at Falmouth's Academy of Music & Theatre Arts. 

When I look back at my recent study experience at Falmouth University, I first think of the classes and the people I shared all those long hours in the studio with. I have always felt like everyone in the department building has the same kind of buzz in common; a huge amount of passion, dedication and enthusiasm for our art forms, but equally a calm and relaxed mind, always ready for a laugh.

The family-like community on my course was the constant factor that kept me going through both the fun and the challenges during the three years. Because of the small community, we were able to look after each other whenever we needed to, which is priceless during such an intense three-year period and it does not always happen on undergraduate courses.

I received unconditional support from the teaching staff as well, who helped me push myself out of my comfort zone numerous times. Especially by the end, it really did feel like our lecturers knew us very well and knew exactly whether we needed support or an extra push each time.

With so many guest lecturers, masterclasses and workshops we always had the inspiration to keep our practice fresh and to be able to surprise even ourselves with what we could achieve.

It's been fascinating to witness everyone unlocking their potentials and growing so much since the beginning. We learnt so much from each other as well, both as people and artists. It's easy to get stuck in the daily routine but with so many guest lecturers, masterclasses and workshops we always had the inspiration to keep our practice fresh and to be able to surprise even ourselves with what we could achieve.

I believe that the courses at Falmouth are tailored to be fit for everyone, rather than getting the individuals to fit into the courses. You take out as much out as you put into it all, and no hard work is overlooked by the lecturers; no matter how small, each achievement is celebrated and each challenge is respected.

The teaching and evaluation system is completely practical and the assessments were always a chance to share what we had been working on. Before most of the assessments, we were told that the assessment board wants to see what we can do and is not interested in what we cannot. This has really stuck with me because the whole time I was at Falmouth we were encouraged to value our strengths and just be curious about what else we could achieve, without judgement or the expectation of a result.

Want to know more about Dance & Choreography BA(Hons) at Falmouth University?  

Head to the Dance & Choreography BA(Hons) course page