1. How did you become involved in dance?

My older sisters took dance classes at our local park district, and although I was only two years old I wanted to go too. I loved it from the beginning and was always dancing and dressing up in old recital costumes. After moving to a different town my mom enrolled my sisters in ballet classes at a more serious ballet studio and me at a smaller local studio because she thought being so young I would have more fun with less formal training. However, after seeing my sisters perform in the Nutcracker, I knew exactly what I wanted to be doing, and my mom let me switch dance schools. Once a week turned into twice, then before I knew it I was spending every day at the studio and loving it.

2. What are you currently doing in the field?

I am currently an apprentice dancer with the Minnesota Ballet.

3. What is the best advice you have ever received from a teacher or mentor?

The best advice I have received is to never be satisfied and to never give up. There is always more you can do and farther you can push yourself.

4. What is your greatest challenge in dance?

I am not naturally turned out or naturally flexible so making my body do what I want it to has always been my biggest challenge. I have learned to work with what I have but am always trying to improve.

5. What is your biggest strength as a dancer? [Read more…]