West End star shares tips with university students
ALUMNA of Loughborough University, Emma Hatton, has visited the campus to share insights into her career on the stage with students and staff.
Emma has starred in West End shows including Wicked, Evita and We Will Rock You. She also produces her own music and released an EP last year. Alongside acting and singing, the alumna also teaches and presents.
During her visit, drama students were treated to a workshop session, where everyone was given the opportunity to discuss their passion for drama and their career interests.
Emma shared useful knowledge and insights into the industry with students based on their interests, and encouraged everyone to follow their passion, but to be prepared for hard work.
In the evening, Emma delivered her Personal Best: My Story talk, welcoming students and staff from across the university who were keen to hear about her experiences and skills.
Emma discussed the realities of the theatre industry and said: “Talent is only a small part of it, it’s also about attitude and aptitude.”
She also talked passionately about physical and mental wellbeing and about the importance of knowing what you can control “so that you have the energy for the things you can’t control”.
Students were keen to ask questions about her experiences and asked how to tackle a perceived failure.
Emma said: “It’s about a shift in mentality. Be so prepared and so committed – there’s only so much you can do. Also have other things going on in your life.”
Emma graduated in 2004 with a degree in English, physical education and sports science.
The talk was delivered as part of the Careers Network ‘Personal Best: My Story’ series, where alumni share their career journeys and top tips with students.