"My first experience of dance was when I was eleven years old. Contemporary dance was part of our physical education at Impington Village College in Cambridgeshire. I quickly became addicted to the thrill of being on stage and chose expressive arts as a GCSE option."

"After starting a performing arts A-level at a different school I found I yearned for the combination of physical, creative and intellectual skills that dance training provides. I went back to Impington to study dance, performing arts and English at A-level. Impington also offered me a diploma in dance, which meant joining classes before and after school and during lunch breaks. Through this I developed quickly and was asked to join a dance company, run by one of my teachers, which gave me the opportunity to work with various choreographers, film-makers and DJs."

"I began to appreciate not just the thrills and the skills, but the idea of a group of people working together on a project, everyone working towards the ultimate performance. It was this group mentality that made me finally choose to pursue dance as a career."

"Towards the end of my A-levels I visited many higher education institutions. I watched or joined in classes, talked to students and teachers and always left with a prospectus and an application form in my hands. I auditioned for both universities and private institutions, knowing I wanted to do a Bachelor's degree. My qualifications, experience and attitude - along with my performance in auditions - were the things considered when I was offered a place on the BA Dance Theatre course at Laban."

"Training was strict and attendance imperative. Diligence and an open mind got me through the three years. Classes would start at 8.45 a.m. by which time you were expected to have warmed up; classes would then finish between 6.30 and 9.30 p.m. Because Laban has a strong academic, technical and creative emphasis, the standard of work was high and so coursework and rehearsals took up much of my spare time. However, that's not to say I didn't have any fun: I made many good friends and took full advantage of the London student lifestyle."

"Laban made me aware just how vast the array of career opportunities is for dancers, from dance management, to community dance, to writing critiques. I chose to work as an independent dance artist as well as continuing my studies to Master's level. I begin my MSc in Dance Science in September 2005. From this I hope to gain a specialisation that will support me financially and academically to enjoy a practical and explorative career in dance."

"Making a living from dance is tough; there is a lot of competition though the rewards are sweet. My advice is to stay positive and focused. Find a balance between proving your dedication and showing off your individuality. Most of all, follow your instinct and believe in your abilities."