For Oli Murphy, studying Acting and Performance at Queen Margaret University has been an opportunity to grow in confidence while developing as both a stage and screen performer. Drawn to QMU's supportive community and the course's balanced approach to acting, he has embraced opportunities to challenge himself, collaborate with students across different disciplines, and gain valuable insight into the industry. As he prepares for his final year, Oli is looking forward to continuing to develop his craft, while this summer co-producing and performing in A Midsummer Night's Dream with fellow QMU stufent Abbie Miller.
Why did you choose to study at Queen Margaret University?
I knew many people who studied at QMU and I repeatedly heard strong praise for it especially about how supportive and engaged the lecturers are in helping students develop. I was also drawn to the course’s balanced 50/50 focus on stage and screen, which distinguishes it from many other universities offering similar courses.
What interested you about your chosen course?
While many courses focus primarily on stage training with only limited screen experience, QMU offers an equal split between stage and screen acting, helping students become more well-rounded performers. The course also provides a realistic insight into the industry, offering opportunities such as auditioning for the Brunton panto and receiving feedback on auditions and self-tapes from industry professionals.
Why attracted you to study in Edinburgh?
What attracted me to Edinburgh is its strong sense of identity. The city’s rich history, combined with its diversity, creates an environment that feels both inspiring and inclusive, where everyone can feel at home.
What have you most enjoyed about your course? What has been the highlight?
Compared to other training I’ve experienced, this course stands out for the environment it creates. Rather than feeling pressured to compare yourself to others, it actively encourages you to grow in confidence and develop your own strengths. It’s a space where you feel supported to take risks, improve, and truly thrive, surrounded by people who want to see you succeed just as much as they do themselves.
Have you participated in a course activity you found especially interesting?
The thing I was most excited about within the course was definitely the screen assessment. We had to film one scene over the course of two days, keeping up both physical and emotional continuity.
How have your lecturers supported your learning?
The lecturers strike a great balance between supporting you and allowing you to find your own footing. You’re given the space to grow independently, but there’s always the reassurance that they’re there to guide you and won’t let you fall. They’re also honest when it matters, giving you the push you need to stay on track and keep progressing.
What have been some of your challenges with the course and university life? How have you overcome them?
I think my biggest challenge was finding the balance between university life and social life, trying to balance coursework with a job and still making time to take care of myself. I recommend finding a good support network, which the University does help with. Don’t be afraid to speak out if you are struggling.
Have you taken part in a placement as part of your course and if so, what was your experience?
While placement is not a part of the course, it does over amazing networking opportunities, both with people just going into the industry and professionals, such as agents and casting directors.
Do you have any advice for students who might be interested in applying for this course?
Try to be as authentic as you can be. Be yourself, not the version you think the lectures want to see. It’s very easy to second guess yourself but you must trust that you belong.
Have you been a part of any extracurricular programmes during your time as a student at QMU? If so, how has it helped you develop skills and experience?
We were given an amazing opportunity working with the Costume and Design Course where we had costumes specifically tailored for us for the costume showcase, which helped us bond with the CDC students and some of them are now helping us with A Midsummer Mights Dream; the production I am currently working on with a fellow QMU student. We also got the opportunity to work with fourth years in the Film and Media course, helping them with their dissertation projects.
What QMU student services have you used to support you through your university journey and how have they helped you?
I am dyslexic, and the University was incredibly supportive, helping us to create personalised individual learning plans through the Effective Learning Service (ELS) to help us with our coursework.
Are you a member of any clubs or societies at QMU? If so, what was the reason you joined and what do you enjoy most about it?
I have been involved in the pool society throughout the year. I initially joined because of how welcoming the members were they were incredibly helpful in introducing me to life at QMU and offering great advice on things to do around Edinburgh. Going into next year, I will be taking on the role of event planner.
Did you attend an online or in person Open Day/Offer Holder day before coming to QMU?
Before being accepted into the course I got to attend an audition day where I got to meet potential classmates and get a taster of what the course would be like.
What’s your ‘top tip’ for making the most of being a student?
Don’t get so wrapped up in worrying about doing well that you forget to be present in the day-to-day life, the course is about so much more than just passing, it teaches you about life as a professional actor. Don’t judge yourself based on the success of others, the lectures see how hard you work.
What has been the most valuable lesson that you’ve learned at university?
We all have moments of self-doubt, but those are not the moments that matter, what matters is rising above it. What is for you will not pass you by.
What are you plans after graduation? Tell us about your ambitions and where you see yourself in the future?
I hope to continue to develop my craft as an actor, just because I will be leaving a traditional learning environment, does not mean my education has to stop. There is so much to learn from the people around you.
