Starting at university is a big step, especially when you're moving somewhere new and beginning an intensive performing arts course. If you're considering studying at the Guildford School of Acting (GSA), you may be wondering what life will actually be like once your training begins.
From accommodation and making friends to wellbeing, societies and finding your place in the wider University of Surrey community, here's a taste of what you could expect from your first year at GSA.
Finding your feet at GSA
GSA is part of the University of Surrey, so while you'll be part of a close-knit specialist performing arts community, you'll also have access to the wider university campus and its facilities.
GSA students automatically become members of the GSA Student Society, which is run by students, for students. The society organises events and activities throughout the year, as well as supporting student-led ideas and representing students on areas including equality, diversity and inclusion.
For new students, this can be a great way to meet people across different GSA courses and years, and to feel part of the community from the beginning. See their Instagram for some of their activities, including fresher's week events.
Making your new home
For many students, university accommodation is where some of their first friendships begin. The University of Surrey offers a range of student accommodation, with options to suit different budgets and preferences. Living alongside students from different courses means you can meet people beyond GSA, whether you're sharing a kitchen, heading to campus together or simply getting to know your flatmates. There are also private accommodations within walking distance to GSA.
Being part of the Students' Union
Aside from automatically being part of the GSA Student Society, you'll also be part of the University of Surrey Students' Union, giving you access to a much wider student community. The Students' Union offers clubs, societies, events, advice and opportunities to get involved in university life. You might discover a new interest, join a sports club, volunteer or simply attend an event to meet people.
Productions, performances and creative opportunities
Productions take place in GSA’s own performance spaces, including the Bellairs Theatre and Rex Doyle Studio Theatre, as well as at venues in Guildford.
For students, these opportunities are about more than performing. Productions bring together performers, directors, musicians, production teams and creatives, offering valuable experience of collaboration and the practical demands of putting on a show.
There are also opportunities to explore ideas beyond formal coursework. GSA Labs, for example, gives GSA students a supportive space to share original work in progress, experiment with new material and receive feedback from a live audience. Students can also take part in any of our annual competitions focusing on Spoken Word, Choreography, or Songwriting, giving you the chance to develop and share your work, perform for your peers and potentially win awards.
Explore the latest GSA performances and events.
Looking after your wellbeing
Performing arts training can be exciting and rewarding, but it can also be demanding. Learning how to balance rehearsals, classes, independent work and your personal life is an important part of university. The University of Surrey provides a range of health and wellbeing support, including confidential services for students who need someone to talk to.
There are also opportunities to look after your wellbeing outside formal support. Spending time with friends, getting outside, exercising, finding time to relax and doing things unrelated to your course can all help you maintain a healthy balance.
A community for everyone
There are many opportunities to find communities where you feel comfortable, supported and represented.
GSA Colours, part of the GSA Student Society, creates a space of visibility, connection and belonging for people of colour. It provides an opportunity for students to come together, share experiences, celebrate different cultures and build connections within the GSA community.
For LGBTQ+ students, there are also opportunities to connect with others through the wider GSA and University communities, while Surrey offers dedicated LGBTQI+ support and student groups.
Students who want to explore or practise their faith can connect with the University's Religious Life and Belief Centre, which provides a welcoming environment for students of all faiths and none.
Whether you're looking to meet people with shared experiences, explore different perspectives or simply find your community, these groups and spaces can help make GSA feel like home.
Staying active
Whether you're a committed athlete or simply want to stay active during your studies, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.
Surrey Sports Park offers facilities and activities ranging from gym and fitness classes to swimming and sport. You don't have to be a competitive athlete to get involved; sport can also be a great way to meet people and take a break from your training.
You can also join the GSA Football Club made up of current GSA students. As a member of the Drama School League, they compete with other drama school football clubs throughout the year for the Drama School League Cup. They play a mixture of home and away matches, making this a great opportunity for students to either be part of the team or feel part of a community by supporting and watching the matches.
Finding your study space
The University of Surrey's Library and Learning Centre provides study spaces and academic resources, giving you somewhere to focus away from your accommodation.
And when you need a break from studying, there are plenty of places around campus to meet friends, grab something to eat or simply relax.
Life beyond GSA
GSA is based on the University of Surrey's Stag Hill campus, just a short walk from Guildford town centre. That means cafés, restaurants, shops, entertainment and green spaces are all close by, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore your new home and spend time with friends outside of training. And don't forget, London is only around 35 minutes away by train!
When you first arrive, it can take a little time to discover your favourite places and get to know the town. For practical tips on settling in, from places to eat and shop to things to do and how to make the most of your new surroundings, check out this local’s guide for new GSA students.
You can also explore campus life at the University of Surrey to discover more about the facilities, services and activities available to students.
Your first year, your way
There isn't one way to experience your first year at GSA.
You might spend most of your time with your course mates, become heavily involved with the GSA Student Society, join a Surrey society, discover a new sport or explore Guildford with friends. You may do all of those things, or find that a quieter routine suits you better. What matters is finding your own community and making university life work for you.
At GSA, you'll have the opportunity to develop your skills as a performer while becoming part of a supportive creative community and the wider University of Surrey student experience.
If you're thinking about applying, find out more about GSA and explore what your own first year could look like.
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