It is a generally understood idea that college brings about various levels and versions of growth. Whether that is emotional, physical, or intellectual, I find that it rings incredibly true and that this past summer, I experienced an immense amount of growth in all senses of the word.

I spent my summer traveling as a member of Universal Dance Association (UDA) Summer Dance Camp Staff. Doing so, I taught Dance Camps to Middle School and High School dancers in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Ohio. In the styles of Jazz, Pom, and Hip-Hop, I was able to share my knowledge and experience by teaching skills classes and choreographed combinations. In the process, I learned from my fellow staff members, as well as the campers whom I worked with. My passion for dance was reignited with every camp that I traveled to, and my enthusiasm for the company grew an immense amount, prompting me to hopefully pursue future summers in the same position.

However, my summer dance did not stop there. In addition to taking my own technique classes, I had the opportunity to teach two master classes and choreograph three solos, one duet, and two group dances, all for the 2016 – 2017 Competition Dance Season. At one point, I choreographed five dances in five days – my mind was exhausted but my heart was full! As a sophomore in college, I currently have six dance routines in the Competition circuit and I could not be more excited to see where these pieces grow and develop as the year continues.

My love for not only dancing, but also choreographing, was strengthened and such experience has shifted my mindset to focusing my Degree Studies into Performance and Choreography.

On another hand, though, I was able to grow both mentally and spiritually as I gained a better sense of myself, my goals, and my values throughout the summer. Working with the Untapped
Movement, I was able to define my dreams and motivations, in addition to coming to terms with my past. I am now able to look back on my past experiences and unhealthy behaviors and use them as motivation to live a life that is better for me in a multitude of ways. In fact, I was even able to share my experience with the worldwide dance community through my Untapped Dancer Profile (click to read). Furthermore, I will be featured, along with my home studio, Absolute Dance Company (Avon Lake, OH), in the upcoming Untapped Movie, “One Family,” premiering in theatres this October (2016).

What a whirlwind of a summer – but I would not trade it for anything. I am not starting the first week of my sophomore year and I am finding myself in stronger shoes. I am approaching obstacles with a new perspective and I am motivated by healthy living, physically, intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally. I am prepared to continue my growth as the year continues and I cannot wait to share my experiences with my WordPress community.