Jack Elder – BA (Hons) Dance

I’ve always wanted to go into dance – I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. I wanted to explore more about dance, and hope to perform and choreograph as much as I can in the future, be it with a company or freelance.

There were so many things about Edge Hill that caught my eye. The beautiful campus, the opportunities available, and just the familiarity of the place. I’m a local lad, and I feel that going to more urban areas that I’m not used to would have overwhelmed me.

The busy Edge Hill community is one of the best things about the University. There’s always something interesting going on, always something to do, and so many opportunities to connect with other people and make memories.

My favourite part of the degree has got to be all the performance and choreography opportunities. I’ve also made lifelong friendships both on the course and as part of the Dance Society.

Our lecturers are incredibly supportive and always willing to help. They’re very experienced, especially in choreography and dance technique. Even if it’s not course-related, their doors are always open.

Staying organised and having a plan for every single day has helped me combat time management challenges. I’m constantly all over the place, attending rehearsals or completing coursework.

The Arts Centre has amazing facilities, including two theatres for all our performance needs. With many studio spaces for rehearsal, as well, it’s a very open and welcoming building with lots to see and do.

I took the opportunity to be part of Coalesce Youth Dance for their latest season. It was a very enjoyable experience, developing my technique and collaborative skills while performing on different stages, and getting to know other young dancers from around the North West.

Joining the Dance Society has easily been the best decision I’ve made at University. The Society has several weekly classes, covering various styles including jazz, ballet, commercial and heels. There’s also a team that competes against other universities. I’ve made so many friends and amazing memories with others who share my interests.

The new SU is a cosy, welcoming environment. I enjoy browsing the vintage clothing stalls that are often open, and having a drinks with friends. It’s always there when you’re looking for something to do in your spare time. My favourite place on campus is the Costa. I think I like coffee a bit too much.

Away from dance, I love to play guitar, bass and piano, writing songs, and sometimes playing open mics. I’m a big bookworm, and especially like fantasy and sci-fi. And I’m a keen Liverpool fan, and take every opportunity I can to watch and support them. When I’m going out I like to put on ‘Is Everybody Going Crazy?’ by Nothing But Thieves. Amazing song. They’re my favourite band. I’ve recently been to see the film Sinners. I loved every second of it.

After graduation, I hope to go into performance with either a contemporary dance company or as a freelancer.

Advice to applicants? Be really open-minded. You’ll learn a lot of new, weird and wonderful things in dance that you might never have heard or experienced before, but the resulting opportunities are a million times worth it.

My heroes? That would be my mum, dad, grandparents – and my dog Paisley.