Jennifer Wren

I’ve always loved performing. I love all things to do with the theatre, like the history behind musicals, and watching productions get put together and seeing the final piece. And I’ve always loved music. I play various instruments, including the flute and saxophone, so that’s always been in my life.

My musical theatre inspiration is Laura Bell Bundy. I admired her dedication and love for the role of Elle Woods in Legally Blonde. I’m also inspired by a performer called Lauren Drew, whom I first saw in SIX, and have followed ever since. I admire her incredibly strong work ethic, her talent, and her drive to never give up.

My dream role is Daisy Buchanan in The Great Gatsby. It’s the best thing I’ve seen recently. I entered expecting a show, I left feeling like I’d accidentally crashed a party where everyone was so talented. She has some amazing songs that really show the depth of her character. The way she’s been portrayed by Eva Noblezada on Broadway and Frances Mayli McCann in the West End is truly breathtaking. I’d love to bring the character alive myself. I’d recommend listening to musical soundtracks, some of them are astonishing. They bring the story to life through music.

Edge Hill has a beautiful campus, and so many amazing resources to help you, academically and personally. Its amazing facilities, the incredible dedication of the lecturers, and the support given to the students to make sure they strive to achieve the best that they can, were all reasons why I chose to study at Edge Hill.

The jump from A levels to a degree is challenging. It gets harder as you progress, but I tackled this by being very open with my lecturers and my personal tutor about sometimes feeling overwhelmed. I was reassured to hear it was normal to feel this way, and they gave me advice and guidance on how to manage my workload effectively.

I spend most of my time in the Arts Centre. The facilities in the building are phenomenal, with two theatres to perform in, and rehearsal spaces available to practice anything from singing to dancing. An in-house tech team help with our University shows, as well as visiting companies, so we get industry experience working closely with professionals. I usually go to the library (aka the Catalyst) for extra reading around my subject. And when I’m looking to relax I go to the Sports Centre for a spin class or a swim.

My degree has given me a professional insight into the theatre industry. In the Musical Theatre Employability module people from across the industry talk to us about various things: auditions; how to start your career after you graduate; how to get an agent; how to approach casting directors – and what they want from you. At the end of the module there was a workshop with the touring cast of Come From Away. It gave us an insight into what you have to do to be able to perform eight shows a week.

We get a variety of different placement opportunities during our course. All placements are optional, and intended to aid your personal growth throughout your degree.

I’m taught all about the industry from professionals. My lecturers are experts in their field. They opened the subject up with real life insight into their own career experiences prior to teaching. One of the main reasons I feel at home at Edge Hill is down to my lecturers. They’re very supportive, approachable, kind and helpful, and always bring a smile to your face in the classroom.

In our final year we perform a world premiere of a musical. It’s something no other university offers – incredible. We can showcase our creativity, and bring the show to life. It encourages us to work as professionals. It’s recognised as a credit on a Spotlight page, so it’ll give me a head start as I pursue a career in musical theatre. Spotlight is like a CV for musical theatre performers, and we have access to it as graduates of this course.

I’d like to create a country and western style musical for my final year assessment. It will showcase medleys and C&W-style dancing. My strengths are in producing and showcasing my musicality through my writing, so I’ve chosen to deliver it as a portfolio, rather than a production. Country isn’t for everyone, but if you’ve never tried it, you’ll never know. Try listening to someone like Luke Combs or Morgan Wallen.

One of the best things about studying at Edge Hill is the pastoral support. Whether you need a friendly chat to cheer you up or help with studying, there are specialised people to help, no matter how big or small your query.

I made lifelong friends in the first week that I’ll keep in touch with long after I graduate. Freshers – or Welcome – Week was the best Edge Hill adventure. The variety of events hosted by the SU was amazing – there truly was something for everyone.

A part of me has always imagined I’d go on to teach the subject I love. I’ve had many different opportunities to work with schools and pupils of all ages, so to teach drama – in secondary or performing arts schools – is my dream. When I graduate, I’ll be staying at Edge Hill to do my postgraduate certificate in secondary education with English.

The University is only a 15-minute walk from the train station – on a lovely day it’s a very pleasant walk to campus. I lived in halls in the first year, but I wasn’t required to be on campus every day in my second year. It was, then, more cost effective to commute as I only live in Preston, 45 minutes away. It’s been relatively easy – there’s a train that goes directly to Ormskirk. After getting off the train I can either catch the Edge Link, a regular free bus for students from Ormskirk Bus station straight to Edge Hill, or walk.

The new Students’ Union (SU) is incredible. I haven’t yet made full use of the facilities but with all the events hosted there and the spaces for students to go between classes, I look forward to doing so this year.

I adore playing golf, with all its challenges and rewards. The thing about golf that brings me most joy is putting in the practice, and seeing how my game changes and how I’m growing into a better golfer with every round. I was junior club captain at 17 and I hope that in the future I can become ladies’ club captain. I also volunteer as a beaver leader to children ages 6-8. Each week the children do a new badge, learning various life skills. I attended the same one when I was a child so giving back to the community this way feels very fulfilling.

My advice? Give it your all. Edge Hill is such a welcoming university where anyone and everyone feels at home, whatever your interests. You’ll find your own little family away from home. Not only is the social side of university always covered by the amazing SU team, but the academic side is phenomenal. Your lecturers strive for you to be the best that you can be, and other teams, like the academic support team, are always on hand to help.

The Ormskirk Food and Drink Market is a great place to go and hang out with friends at the end of a long day. It has a vibrant atmosphere, and some great stalls selling a variety of food and drinks.

I love all things Disney and Walt Disney World Florida truly is the happiest place on earth. To go there on holiday with my family was a memory I’ll never forget. I’m also watching the American version of The Office for the first time, and I’m absolutely loving it. Dwight and Michael are hilarious.

The Jonas Brothers are musical heroes of mine. I’ve grown up listening to their music and followed them all my life. Right now I’m listening – and singing – to the Jonas Brothers’ album Greetings from your Hometown. I’d also say that the character of Elle Woods from Legally Blonde is one of my musical heroes.