Walking into Nova Southeastern University, I was the typical college freshman: overly excited to begin the rest of my life in the “real world”. Yet, I was slightly terrified that only four years separated me from life-changing decisions that would set me up for the rest of my life. I also knew that biology was not the major for me. I had painstakingly tried to sit through a full semester of biology classes, but I was so disinterested in anything involving science that I usually drifted off into my choreography, the music blasting inside my head.
I was going to lunch in the University Center, when I happened to notice a poster for dance auditions. Needless to say, that was the moment that forever changed my life. Being a part of the dance program at NSU has taught me so many things about myself. There is a sense of family within the dance community here that I have never found anywhere else. I have strengthened my abilities as a dancer, as a performer and as a person. New styles and techniques have pushed me beyond my limits.
Upon graduating, I plan on opening up a dance studio for children with special needs. My professors have helped me find the perfect path to reach this goal. I am currently a part of Karen Peterson and Dancers, a mixed-ability dance company, which offers dance classes for individuals with different special needs. I also teach different genres of dance to children of all ages at three local studios. With classes, work and rehearsals, my entire life revolves around dance, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I wake up every morning knowing that I am very fortunate. I know that I will get to do what I love every single day for the rest of my life.
