When I was three years old, my parents made the decision to put me in dance classes - ballet, tap, and jazz. Fifteen years later, I pursue this art form now as a career. I’m forever grateful for this lifetime gift my parents have given me.

The Importance of Community : The dance community is unlike any other. Whether you dance recreationally, professionally, with a company, or just with a team, you’re practicing and rehearsing for hours on end, in your most vulnerable state, learning and exploring the technique of dance as well as your personal artistry. You pour your heart out every day with them, and although there may be some competition, this connection you form lasts a lifetime - without it, the art form and athleticism that is dance, may not be as fulfilling as it is.

Confidence is Key: Throughout my life, I’ve struggled with confidence and self-image. Once I really started loving myself and learning to appreciate myself as a person and as a dancer, I realized how much more I thrived as a dancer. When pouring your heart into choreography, or working in an audition, without confidence, your artistry and potential won’t come alive. Without confidence, your uniqueness and voice won’t shine.

Stay Dedicated: There have been many days that I thought I couldn’t dance, that the last thing I wanted to do was spend five hours in class, even though I love it more than anything. Pushing through sore muscles, headaches, and self-doubt is one of the things that has helped me grow stronger and more dedicated. Dedication is what pushes you through fear, doubt, and the many obstacles you’ll face.

Find Your Voice: Something incredibly important in the dance world, and real life. There are so many dancers out there, and what will make you stand out is your heart, soul, and uniqueness. Pouring yourself into choreography and technique is what will ensure growth, as well as ensure a lifetime of new experiences and confidence in your art form.

The Power of a Good Mindset: There are struggles, there will always be obstacles, but knowing that you’ll recover, that you’ll persevere, that you’ll be stronger once you overcome - this is what’ll keep you afloat. Though there will be self-doubt and negative thoughts, knowing that you’ll overcome that is what will keep you going.