Teaching
Something even more important than dance steps, is how students learn professionalism and engagement. Arriving on time, treating instructors with respect, and doing the work outside of classes and rehearsals. I believe that teaching young dancers certain principles in the studio will prepare them for life outside of the studio, even if dance is not in their future. When I was a student, I latched onto teachers that pushed me, while at the same time provided a comfortable place to fail. As a teacher I know I am achieving my goal when I start to see students experiment and try new things without fear of messing up.
Over the course of my 16 years as a dance student, I have encountered all varying types of teachers. Some instructors who were very delicate and forgiving, and many who fell on the opposite side of the spectrum. I undoubtedly am a sum of the teachers I have had, and I have been very conscious in only holding onto the attributes that helped me as a student. This includes verbal encouragement throughout the process if the student is beginning their dance journey. This also might include some loving course-correction if an older, more experienced dancer seems to be drifting into bad habits.
