Dance has been the most transformative force in my life, shaping not only my identity but also my aspirations. Over the past 13 years, it has been my passion, my creative outlet, and my greatest accomplishment. From training in ballet, modern, and jazz to choreographing and performing in prestigious programs, dance has allowed me to explore movement as both an art and a science. It has fueled my curiosity, leading me to pursue a dual education in psychology and dance at Chapman University, and inspired my goal of becoming a dance psychologist. At the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (LACHSA), I immersed myself in rigorous training, performing in works by renowned choreographers such as Jiri Kylian, Martha Graham, and Francisco Gella. My journey also included winning national titles, earning scholarships like the Caplin Foundation and winning awards like the Artistic Merit Award. At Chapman University, I continue to refine my technique under esteemed faculty while expanding my knowledge in the mental aspects of dance. My ultimate goal is to find that connection between dance and psychology, ensuring that dancers receive not only technical training but also the mental support to thrive in the industry. I aim to mentor young artists, helping them cultivate both their artistic expression and mental resilience. Whether through choreography, performance, or psychological guidance, I hope to give back to the dance world that has given me so much. Dance is my lifelong passion, and I am committed to using my experiences to uplift the next generation of artists.

Art, in all its forms, is a powerful source that has the ability to inspire, heal, and transform lives. For me, dance has been the most significant force in shaping my identity and guiding my purpose in life. Over the past 13 years, dance has not only been my passion but also a source of comfort, self-expression, and personal growth. It has given me meaning and a deeper understanding of the world, and I aspire to share this with young, aspiring dancers to help them find their own paths within the art form. Dance has the unique ability to upraise emotions, foster creativity, and encourage self-identity. Through movement, I have learned to find my own unique style broadening my mind to new perspectives. The way dance has integrated in my body and mind has always fascinated me, which is why I have chosen to pursue an education that merges both my artistic and academic interests. I am fortunate to be attending Chapman University, where I am expanding my knowledge of dance both technically and theoretically. This incredible program is allowing me to deepen my appreciation for dance while providing me with the necessary tools to make a meaningful impact on the next generation of dancers. From an academic standpoint, I am striving to become a dance psychologist. This field allows me to combine my love for psychology and dance in a way that provides crucial support to young dancers. The mental aspects of dance are just as important as the physical ones, and I aim to help dancers develop a healthy mindset to sustain their passion without being overwhelmed by the pressures of the industry. Dance psychology is a growing field, and I hope to contribute by addressing the psychological well-being of dancers, helping them with the emotional highs and lows that come with pursuing a career in the arts. Beyond the psychological aspect, I also want to teach and mentor young dancers, not only in technique but also in the emotional and creative depth of the art. By sharing my knowledge and experience, I hope to inspire young dancers to show that dance is more than just a skill but also a lifelong passion. Dance has given me so much, and my goal is to give back to the world, showing the new generation of artists the beauty of this art that has become my whole life.

Arts have had a positive impact on my life for the twelve years I have done it. At the ripe age of five, I started my true passion for dance and continue it now as a seventeen-year-old. Throughout my twelve years of dancing, I trained at local dance studios perfecting my craft and experiencing the idea of collaboration with many talented artists in creating beautiful pieces. I began sharing my art with the world by volunteering at her local studio called Adage Dance Center where I taught the young dancers ballet and tap, I also became a student representative at my arts high school called Lachsa. One challenge I overcame was breaking a bone in my foot which stopped me from doing what I love the most. It was in 2018 right before the most important competition of the year and I broke a bone in the most important part of a dancer's body. The 2 months I was sitting out felt like the longest months of my life. As a dancer, I wanted to get up and move every second of the day but I couldn't and it was truly heartbreaking. Luckily, I pushed and constantly iced my foot every night to make a full recovery just in time for the competition. Although it was a difficult experience, I overcame it and came back stronger and ready to learn and dance more. Dance has always been a part of my life and I may have had a few setbacks, but this is what pushed me to grow tremendously and allow me to continue my passion for the arts in college for my professional career. In my professional career, I am hoping to continue dancing, and working with artists in the industry, while also becoming a dance therapist, becoming this beneficial person to lean on when dancers need support for their foundation, moral, and overall physical selves. The arts have truly affected my life for the better, influencing creativity, well-being, cultural understanding, and social change. Dance specifically has become my whole world, the surrounding, the drive, and the overall passion I have for this art is everything. I am hoping to get into an amazing college to continue pursuing and excelling in my craft. Art as a whole gives me meaning and helps me with my understanding of the world. The appreciation I have for art improves my quality of life and makes me feel good. Creating art specifically in dance elevates my mood, improves my ability to problem solve, and opens my mind to new ideas in the near future.