‘Fame’ chance beckons for Jenni

But the achievement has also presented her with the daunting challenge of how to raise guarantees for fees set at a staggering $53,000.

Jenni Wales (23), a former Cumbernauld High pupil, graduated with Honours from the University of Strathclyde, and has a job with Hilton Hotels – but is determined to pursue her dream.

She recently performed in a stage version of TV drama Bad Girls, and has had small but useful roles in other productions, for example Outlander.

“I auditioned for the Academy in London and was thrilled when I was accepted,” said Jenni.

“Only 20 students are accepted from outside the US, but now there’s the problem of how to raise funds in time for the start of the course in September.”

Grant aid to cover part of the cost is available to US citizens, but not students from other countries.

Jenni’s mum Irene said: “Jenni’s huge interest in drama began when she was nine, and we went to see the Phantom of the Opera – it’s all developed from there.

“I am involved in amateur drama, and we have even been on stage together, but we were overjoyed when she won the chance to study at the Academy.

“Then came the paperwork showing the sort of figures we needed to match to make it happen.

“It is a brilliant opportunity – but there’s no easy answer for how to make it happen”.

She hopes company or other sponsorship could be available for Jenni, a bright talent who has proved she has the ability to perform with the best.

Anyone able to help can contact her on e-mail at [email protected]