I was first introduced to dance when my mom enrolled my older sister in a dance class and, being a typical little sister, I insisted on joining the same one. From there my love for dance only grew. Not just for the art form and the challenge that initially drew me in, but also for the community and friendships I found along the way. As a shy child, dance quickly became my form of expression where I found a sense of belonging.

One of the most pivotal moments in my career was working with Violette Verdy on George Balanchine’s Emeralds. After many notes, she reminded me of something. She said, “Be present in every moment and just be you”. A simple thought, but from that point forward I began shifting my thinking from trying to achieve perfection, to simply pouring myself back into the art form that had given so much to me. I gained a newfound sense of freedom.

Dance has always, and continues to teach me. Whether it’s personal development, artistic growth, or a better understanding of the world around you, dance has the ability to speak and transform both artist and audience. You just have to be present and listen.