We caught up with international student Belle, who came moved to UCW from Sweden to study BA (Hons) Musical Theatre! She spoke to us about her journey to UCW, and how she has found her first year.
“One day, my school announced it would be hosting a video call with UCW. Every year, they give prospective students the chance to learn more through a virtual meeting. I was not sure what to expect. The faculty members from UCW’s Performing Arts Department spoke with such passion and enthusiasm about their programs. It wasn’t another formal presentation; it felt like a genuine, vibrant, and full-of-life conversation. They were clearly dedicated to fostering talent and creativity in a welcoming environment where someone’s unique art is not only supported but celebrated. I wasn’t sure if I was ready, still something inside me said, ‘Why not at least give it a chance?’ So, I decided to audition. I didn’t know where it would lead me, but now I realise I was opening the door to a new chapter!
“When I received the offer to join the Musical Theatre degree at UCW, it felt like a dream come true. My heart raced with excitement at the thought of studying abroad, surrounded by talented performers and incredible opportunities. But soon after, a wave of self-doubt followed. I wondered if I was good enough, if my English was strong enough, and if I could really leave everything behind to start again in a new country.
“This was a big unknown, and the first few months were tough. But I wasn’t alone. The support I received, especially in those early days, made all the difference.
“One of the first hurdles I faced was the visa process and finding accommodation. I had heard stories of how complicated it could be, and I was nervous something could go wrong. Fortunately, with the support of the HEART-team at UCW, the weight on my shoulders was lifted. It made me realise how much UCW genuinely cares about its students; it made me feel welcome and supported, even before I set foot on campus.
“Welcome week was another turning point. I was nervous about meeting new people and finding my place in a sea of strangers. The activities, organised by the HEART-team, made it easy to connect with fellow students, and the charm of Weston-super-Mare gradually revealed itself.
“The teachers are an incredible support, too. They don’t focus solely on academic achievements or perfect performances; they invest in the person behind the art. I soon realised that at UCW, the emphasis is not just on technique and talent—it’s on community, growth, and helping each student find their own individual voice. It is more than education; it is a community where we are all supported and valued.
“As the months went by, the questions that had once filled my mind—about whether I could succeed or fit in began to fade into the background. The support from the HEART-team and the guidance from my lecturers helped me not only survive this transition but thrive in it.
“One of my favourite memories at UCW so far occurred when, as a first-year, I was asked to be part of the second- and third-years’ production of SpongeBob SquarePants: The Musical. I was asked to help manage the music, which was an incredible honour. At first, I couldn’t quite believe it. I was still finding my feet, and yet, they saw something in me. It wasn’t just about controlling the music—it was about being trusted, and that meant a lot.
“What truly made this experience unforgettable was the way the second and third years embraced me. They didn’t treat me like an outsider, they brought me right into their world. I was invited into their SpongeBob bubble with warmth and kindness, and it didn’t feel like I was simply helping out; I felt like an integral part of the team. That feeling of being welcomed and valued didn’t stop with just that production. The entire Performing Arts Department has this magical energy. No matter where you are in your journey, there is an undeniable feeling that we are all walking the same path together.
This performance forms part of the Performing and Production Arts Careers Excellence Hub. At University Centre Weston our approach goes beyond the traditional classroom setting. Through industry speakers, workshops, employer projects, and more, we equip our learners with the real-world experiences and insights that set them apart in the competitive job market. It’s not just about getting a job; it’s about standing out from the crowd when they embark on their job searches.
“In the future, I wish to play Ariel in a production of The Little Mermaid. From the moment I first saw the movie as a child, Ariel’s longing to belong and her pursuit of identity resonated with me. To bring her magic to life on stage one day is a goal I hold close to my heart.
“Alongside that dream, another vision I hold dear is to be a performer at Disneyland Paris. The idea of performing in their shows, creating that sense of wonder and joy for people, excites me beyond words. Disney has always been a magical place for me. Knowing that I could play a role in creating unforgettable memories for someone else is something I deeply aspire to.
“For now, I’m focusing on honing my craft and developing the skills that will take me closer to my dreams. I know the path ahead might not always be easy, but dreams like these are worth chasing. They fuel my passion and remind me why I am pursuing this journey in the first place: to be part of something magical, something larger than myself, and to share that magic with others.”
A huge thanks to Belle for talking us through her time at UCW so far! To find out more about studying Musical Theatre at UCW, click here!
