Sian joined Middlesbrough College in 2017, where she studied Level 3 Performing Arts (Dance). Since leaving college, she has been dancing her way across the globe, pursuing her passion and inspiring audiences everywhere!
Recently, Sian returned to the college as part of Industry Week to teach a dance workshop for current students, and we had the chance to catch up with her.
Sian said: “Thinking back on my two years at Middlesbrough College brings back such great memories. Coming back to speak to current students, lead dance workshops, and inspire the next generation of dancers has been such an amazing, full circle experience!”
When asked about her Level 3 Performing Arts (Dance) course, Sian said:
“My experience on the course was incredibly insightful – I absolutely loved learning. I gained so many skills that I now apply in dance, performing arts and even everyday life.
“On a more personal note, I made countless friends and created so many wonderful memories, which are such a vital part of the college experience.
“My course truly prepared me for my future in so many ways. It gave me a strong professional foundation in dance upon which to build. One area that my course really helped me with was auditions, which play a major role in any career in the performing arts industry.
“When I was a student here, weeks like Industry Week were a fantastic way to prepare me for my future after college. The industry professionals, workshops, and hands-on experiences were incredibly valuable, showing me exactly where my skills could take me. It left me feeling excited about life after college and really motivated me to work hard to reach my goals.”
When asked about the teachers at Middlesbrough College and support she received, Sian said:
“I loved my tutors – I had a really great working relationship with all of them. Even now, while I’m working in industry, my teachers want to bring me back to help me improve my teaching skills and teach the next generation of dancers.
“One tutor who stood out to me was Karen. She made us work very hard and her classes were not easy, but the results showed. She really cared about us as individuals and about our mental health. She was very approachable, and I always felt I could go to her if I needed anything.”
Since leaving Middlesbrough College, Sian has been taking her passion for dance around the world, performing and inspiring audiences everywhere!
“Since graduating, I have worked in Abu Dhabi as a dance captain and swing performer in land performances. I loved living in the UAE; it was a great experience. I’ve also worked on cruise ships as a dancer and as a dance captain. I’ve been lucky enough to travel the world, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, all while getting paid to do what I love!
“My biggest achievement was being asked to be the dance captain on my first job – it gave me a lot of self-confidence. It showed how the choreographers and directors viewed me: someone who is a strong leader, can be trusted, picks up detail, and provides constructive criticism.
“Recently, I’ve done a lot more teaching and a little bit of choreographing, which is nice. It’s a new side of the industry to explore. I can’t wait to see what’s next for me within this crazy industry.”
Finally, we asked what advice Sian would give to current or prospective students, particularly those who are considering studying dance at Middlesbrough College:
“I know a lot of people get told that dance is not a stable career and that they should choose something more stable, like a more academic path.
“I would say to those people who are being told that but know in their heart that they want to take a dance course or become a dancer, just say yes. At the end of the day, you can always come back to Middlesbrough College and study academic courses at any age. But you can’t dance at any age.
“If you want to do it, do it while you’re young. You don’t want to look back and think, ‘I wish I had tried that’ or ‘I wish I had done that.”
“Say yes while you’re young and take the leap, even if it feels scary, daunting, or a bit unstable. Not many people get to turn their passion or hobby into a job. Dancers and performers are lucky to be able to do that.
“If anyone is thinking about coming to Middlesbrough College, I would absolutely recommend it. I look back on my time there with great memories. It gave me a strong foundation for my future career!”
Are you leaving school this year and curious about a career in the dance industry? Find out more about Level 3 Performing Arts today!
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