One key value that is crucial in order to succeed as not just a dancer, but an athlete and a student, is hard work. 

Being the only senior in my dance company, I am the oldest and most experienced dancer in my classes. It is important to me that I am consistently demonstrating what it looks like to work my hardest. 

As an upperclassman, I have experienced the mind-consuming stress that comes along with tests, AP classes, SAT’s, and never ending homework. Amidst these times when it feels like school is swallowing you whole, it can be hard to detach from the chaos and isolate your thoughts when you enter the dance studio. 

Over these years, it’s become imperative that I shut off the “school” and “home” parts of my brain when I step onto the marley, so that I can get the most out of class. Whether I’m energetic, exhausted, frustrated, elated, or apathetic, I’ve learned to give all that I have. If I only have 50 percent to give, then I get all of that 50 percent. If I have 20 percent, then I give my full 20 percent. 

Looking back, I wish someone would have taught me that giving it your all especially on the days when it feels impossible is when the most growth happens. 

Another component that my years of training and experience has granted me is the power of perseverance. When you’re cast in a challenging role or repertoire piece, sometimes it seems impossible to nail down difficult choreography in a matter of months. You become overwhelmed with the need to be perfect and it’s easy to succumb to pressure. 

Rehearsals feel endless and your mind begins to drift as you lose motivation. Over my years of taking on difficult roles, I’ve learned the skill of persistence and stamina. 

Rather than viewing mastery as a sprint – I now view it as a marathon. When I walk into rehearsal, I’ve shifted my mindset to look at everyday as a chance to improve rather than a monotonous cycle of exercises. 

Every combination is a chance to perform and grow my technique. I don’t think about each day individually, instead the result of consistency across weeks and months. 

This mental shift has allowed me to push myself more than I ever thought I could. Envisioning the relief and pride that’s produced by a successful performance is the fuel that drives me to the finish line.