鈥淚 have always had a strong passion for music and dance, and choosing to major in both was an easy decision. There is something so beautiful about expressing your emotions through music and movement when words don鈥檛 suffice, and it is something I want to be able to do for the rest of my life.
I chose Meredith because it offered everything I could ask for. It was close to home, had both a B.A. in Music and a B.A. in Dance, and had a field hockey team that welcomed me with open arms. What more could I ask for?
At the start, it was important to me to continue playing field hockey throughout college. When Meredith provided that opportunity, I knew it was the place for me. However, at the end of my sophomore year, I realised there was a lot I had not factored in when coming to that decision, and I had to come to terms with the fact that I could not complete both majors while still being on the team. I was burnt out, and though I kept up my academic and athletic performance, my health was dwindling. Eventually, I could not keep up. I gathered up the courage to officially leave the team. It was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make, but it was also the best because sometimes you have to acknowledge that what you want isn鈥檛 always what you need.
I have learned the importance of recognizing your own self-worth, trusting yourself, and prioritizing your goals. It is important to be aware of one’s limits and value one’s health while still consistently striving for more.聽聽
The supportive community at Meredith has provided a safe space for me to face the challenges that both college and life bring every day. I am more passionate, determined, and courageous, and have learned to advocate for myself 鈥� none of which would have happened without the advice and opportunities given by those at Meredith.
Meredith has provided me with opportunities I never thought I would get the chance to do as an undergraduate. I made my professional debut as a performer and choreographer at the North Carolina Opera. Secondly, I got to be a part of the Division III field hockey team my freshman and sophomore years, and I have been the office assistant for the music department, as part of the work-study program, for three years. All these experiences have helped shape the path I am on and really made my time at Meredith a memorable experience. Additionally, it has allowed me to experiment in a variety of realms, which has helped me envision what a life as a professional musician/dancer/athlete could look like, as well as helped me form numerous connections within the Meredith community.
Honestly, I am unsure about what the future holds. I have the desire to perform professionally; however, the path that will allow me to get there is unclear. I have also decided to take an extra semester at Meredith as I feel it will give me a chance to hone my skills and complete a performance certificate in dance. No matter what, my curiosity, spontaneity, and eagerness to learn will help me reach my goals. Those are the characteristics that have helped me grow and succeed as of now, so whatever is in store, I know I’ll be okay.鈥�
