Trump tramples Emma’s dream of a lifetime

American President Donald Trump’s stance on international students has trampled a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Central Coast student Emma King.

Emma’s dream of a lifetime came true when she received word she had been accepted into New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts later this year for musical theatre.

This year’s admissions cycle into the world-renowned performing arts school was one of the most selective in NYU history with a 7% acceptance rate from more than 120,000 applicants.

Emma, 19, of North Avoca, was set to leave in August but her dreams came crashing down last week when she contacted the American Embassy to book in a student visa interview.

“The Embassy said a pause had been put on all new international student interviews,” Emma said.

“They didn’t have a timeline or know when they book any new appointments.

“I am very disappointed, it’s all I wanted to do since Year 8 and I was very proud of myself when I was accepted.

“If you look for the best university for performing arts, New York University Tisch is it.”

She will now be heading to London’s Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in September.

“To be accepted to NYU was an absolute honour and dream come true,” she said.

“I am so fortunate to have been supported by my family, coaches Todd Keys and Kate Dunn, and my wider community. 

“I had to make a decision on Saturday because I had to let Mountview know.

“I had a choice between Mountview and NYU, so the decision was made for me.”

Emma had hoped that by sharing her story, she could not only reach potential support to help fund her education at NYU, but also inspire other young artists on the Central Coast to pursue their passions.

“With the right work ethic and commitment, you can absolutely make your dreams a reality,” she said.

She had dreamt of going to NYU because it is one of the only institutions that allows students to pursue an academic degree alongside their chosen arts degree. 

A student at the esteemed McDonald College in Strathfield from Year 8 to Year 12, Emma graduated Year 12 as college captain and received a high ATAR in the 90s.

She was awarded the Year 12 Musical Theatre Award 2024, was the McDonald College Scholarship Recipient for 2020-2024 and Bouddi Foundation of the Arts grant recipient for 2024.

She is also a passionate advocate and leader, most recently receiving the Zonta Central Coast Young Woman in Leadership Award and touring to Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney with Daniel Widdowson – also from the Central Coast – for his Mental Health and the Actor’s Life documentary.

Denice Barnes