Profile Blog

At nine years old, I could have never known the importance of the envelope I was holding. I opened it up and read the first sentence."We are extremely happy to offer you a position on the Movement Dance Company." Looking back, joining the competitive dance team at my dance studio Movement Dance Academy opened up the door for me to have the memorable experiences that have truly shaped the person that I am today.

From that moment on, dance went from being a hobby to the being the most important aspect of my life. I danced at least 15 hours a week and competed in national and regional competitions with my team until I graduated from high school. One of the main things my experience on the dance team taught me was time management. I had to learn how to balance school, dance, and my social life, as well as any other activities, which were almost impossible to fit in. Therefore, I had to sacrifice many things growing up. I missed some school dances and birthday parties; I had to quit soccer and the school play. However, I chose to do all these things because of how important dance was to me. Dance also taught me countless other valuable lessons, including extreme discipline, self-awareness, good sportsmanship, the value of hard work and dedication, and most importantly, teamwork.

When I opened that envelope, I became a part of a team with an indescribable bond, with whom I made lifelong friendships. Growing up in this competitive environment, a child needs role models and people who they know are on their side. My team provided this for me and so much more. My teammates and I spent at least 15 hours a week together, usually more. We knew each other inside and out and were there for each other through every quick change, big win, screaming teacher, costume malfunction, asthma attack, bruised knee, and lost jazz shoe. No matter what happened between us, we always remained a team and were there for each other no matter what. I can look back on any time in my life, good or bad, and remember my teammates by my side through it all. Being alongside them throughout my childhood and adolescent dance career taught me the most valuable lessons that I can carry throughout my entire life.