I began my journey at Empire Performing Arts School taking primarily ballet classes, but over the years, I expanded my training to include jazz, acro, tap, modern, contemporary, lyrical, and pointe. I also participated in musical theater shows such as Tarzan, Hercules, and the Newsies workshop. A highlight of my time at Empire was attending an Agent Showcase audition and a learning trip to London. Additionally, I attended various summer camps, both for dance and musical theater, but it was during dance camp that I truly fell in love with dance. For seven years, I was a member of the competition team, performing group dances across all genres, and I even had the privilege of choreographing two solos. These experiences helped prepare me for the Dance Composition courses I now take in college. I also served as an assistant ballet teacher for the Level 2 and 3 classes, which gave me valuable experience for my future career.

          My experience at Empire was absolutely life-changing, and I am now pursuing a dance major at Brenau University with a concentration in pre-occupational therapy. Without the constant support, training, and encouragement from my teachers at Empire, this path wouldn’t have been possible. I gained so many valuable skills that go beyond the classroom, including teamwork, goal setting, communication, and stress management. Empire taught me how to work hard, accept feedback, and keep pushing forward, which has been essential in both my academic and artistic journey. The faculty, particularly Mrs. Alex, Mrs. Lauren, and Mrs. Kathleen, were instrumental in my growth—not just as a dancer, but as a person. They balanced correction with encouragement and invested deeply in my well-being, helping me develop the confidence to pursue my goals. I also formed lifelong friendships with my peers, and the relationships I built at Empire continue to inspire me today.