As part of Central’s Keep Creating Appeal, we’re speaking to students who have received Scholarships and Bursaries whilst studying at Central, to showcase the impact that these have on them, and their future careers.
Molly Wilsdon is a BA (Hons) Drama, Applied Theatre and Education student, and she took the time to speak with us about her placements working with young people and her goals for the future.
What activities have you recently been engaged in?
I have recently just completed a placement at a primary school where I worked with children aged 5-6. Next term, I will be doing a placement in Manchester working with children that have a care experience. The aim of this project, is to work with the young people that the charity assist in order to create an accurate depiction of the care system, to aid social workers in their training going forward.
What excites you about this project?
In the past, I have worked with young people from the ages of 0-10 and have little experience with teenagers. So, I feel this project will widen my skill set and give me the opportunity to learn and grow, as well as enrich my work going forward. In addition to this, I grew up in Manchester and it was evident to me that children from disadvantaged backgrounds rarely get to experience theatre, so one of my goals during this project is to empower those groups and enable them to be involved.
You received a Scholarship or Bursary, what impact has this had on you and your studies?
I applied for a bursary on the grounds that I have recently experienced some personal adversities which left me in hospital for numerous weeks, meaning that working to support myself in London became impossible. Receiving this bursary meant that the financial pressure that was starting to impact my mental health and university work has been alleviated and I will be eternally grateful for that.
What advice would you have for anyone looking to follow in your footsteps?
Growing up in a working class town, I often felt like I would never account to much and despite my big dreams of becoming an actress, I always felt like this would never be possible. I’ve since learnt to believe in my abilities and trust in my purpose. My advice to someone looking to go to Central would be to believe in yourself. You are in charge of your own destiny! Great things don’t come without hard work. And with hard work comes great things. (Cringe but true!)
What are you currently planning on doing after graduation?
My goal is to become a primary school teacher and run my own private drama classes.
Central’s Keep Creating Appeal raises vital funds for Scholarships and Bursaries to support our students.
