A rewarding year studying dance at Leeds Beckett University

I chose Leeds Beckett University based on the recommendation of my international study agency. Dance has always been my major, and it is a field I have been deeply involved in for many years. This time, however, I wanted to come to the UK to further develop my choreography skills and gain a broader creative perspective. Leeds Beckett offered the opportunity to explore dance in a more conceptual and expressive way, which aligned perfectly with my goals.

One of the biggest differences I noticed in teaching styles was the emphasis on creativity and storytelling in choreography. In China, dance education focuses heavily on technical skills, where even a two-minute performance is often filled with complex techniques from beginning to end. Studying here has helped me understand that a dance work also needs a clear background and emotional context, and that every movement should serve that story. My lecturers often remind us to consider the role of the audience and how they experience the dance. This approach has been incredibly important for me, as it has provided deeper emotional sources for my performances and completely changed the way I think about creating work.

My favourite learning experience so far has been the drama module. This module allowed me to experience live works by choreographers from different backgrounds and cultures. I had the chance to offer feedback and suggestions to choreographers and work collaboratively to improve pieces in real time. This experience gave me the confidence to explore ideas more boldly, express my own viewpoints, and engage critically with creative work.

Moving to the UK and settling into life in Leeds was a very positive experience. I quickly grew to love the city because it feels comfortable and safe, which is extremely important to me. Leeds has a welcoming atmosphere that made it easier to adapt to a new environment and focus on my studies and creative development.

As an international student, I felt supported by Leeds Beckett, and I was very grateful to receive a scholarship, which helped ease some of the pressure of studying abroad. For students considering studying dance here, I would strongly recommend it. Before coming to Leeds Beckett, after graduating in China, I could mainly be described as a dancer or performer. After just one year of study here, I have grown into someone who thinks more like a choreographer and a researcher in dance, rather than only a performer.

When I reflect on my time at Leeds Beckett, I can confidently say it has been a very rewarding and enjoyable year. If I had to describe Leeds Beckett in one word to someone back home, it would be 'rewarding' because the experience has given me far more than I expected, both academically and creatively.