For DonorsFor Applicants

Boddu/Nekkanti Dance Scholarship Fund

$500
1 winner$500
Awarded
Application Deadline
Mar 9, 2024
Winners Announced
Apr 9, 2024
Education Level
High School
Recent Bold.org scholarship winners
Eligibility Requirements
Background:
Dance
Education Level:
High school senior

Dance is a captivating art form that has been an integral part of human culture for centuries. It is a medium of expression that combines movement, rhythm, and emotion to convey stories, ideas, and experiences. Recognizing the importance of dance as a form of artistic expression and its potential to shape individuals' lives, a scholarship program has been established to support aspiring dancers in their pursuit of excellence.The scholarship program is open to dancers in high school with all backgrounds, and dance styles. It seeks to promote diversity and inclusivity within the dance community, recognizing that dance is a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries. Whether it is classical ballet, contemporary dance, hip-hop, or any other dance style, the scholarship program aims to support dancers who exhibit passion, talent, and a strong work ethic.

Any high school senior who dances and is a resident of Michigan or Virginia may apply for this scholarship opportunity.

To apply, tell us how dance has influenced who you are today.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Passion
Published October 25, 2023
Essay Topic

How has dance influenced who you are today?

400–600 words

Winners and Finalists

Winning Application

Nihitha Yeluguri
Howard HighEllicott City, MD
After 10 years of training, especially in the traditional South Indian classical style of Kuchipudi, dancing has had a significant impact on my identity and the person I am today. Dancing has been more than just physical movement for me; it has been a life-changing adventure of self-awareness, development, and cultural enrichment. I was deeply influenced by my early exposure to Kuchipudi dancing, which gave me a profound respect for South India's rich cultural legacy. I acquired the unmatched ability to convey stories, themes, and emotions through delicate footwork, elegant hand gestures, and expressive expressions. Every dance performance served as a medium for me to investigate and commemorate the rich tapestry of Indian mythology, spirituality, and culture. Beyond its cultural importance, Kuchipudi dancing has deeply ingrained in me a feeling of discipline, commitment, and persistence. Devotion to practice and many hours were necessary to master the complex choreography and subtle expressions. I developed grit, perseverance, and a never-ending pursuit of perfection via the demands of training—qualities that have benefited me well outside of the dance studio. In addition, Kuchipudi dancing has developed an increased level of movement and emotional intelligence in me. I gain a deeper grasp of human emotions, motivations, and connections as I move to embody numerous characters and narratives. By means of artistic expression, I acquired the ability to emotionally connect, sympathize, and interact with people beyond linguistic and cultural boundaries. Kuchipudi dancing has also greatly cultivated a sense of belonging and community in me. I made lifelong friends, experienced successes and losses together with a dynamic dance group, and relished the happiness that comes from group creativity. Through cooperative practice sessions, stage productions, and cultural gatherings, I was able to witness firsthand the ability of harmony, cooperation, and a common desire to uplift and inspire both audiences and performers. In addition, my experience with Kuchipudi dance has given me a strong feeling of purpose and obligation to protect and advance my cultural background. I feel a great responsibility to preserve this age-old art form for future generations and make sure that its beauty and importance stand the test of time as its curator. To put it simply, learning Kuchipudi dancing has transformed my identity, values, and objectives, making it more than merely a pastime or past time. Kuchipudi dancing has greatly improved my life by combining artistry, discipline, and cultural immersion. It has given me the ability to accept my background, develop resilience, encourage empathy, and build relationships with people. I take with me the priceless lessons and experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today as I continue on my dance journey.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Mar 9, 2024. Winners will be announced on Apr 9, 2024.

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