This multimedia project is titled "Emotional and Energetic State of a Human Being". The project explores the day-to-day frustrations of being a student and demonstrates how movement can improve mood, leading to a clearer mind. It includes video editing skills for dance that I am learning in my MFA program at Hollins University. I believe dance can go beyond the performance level and should be appreciated more because of its hidden benefits that often go unrecognized. I am independently studying healing in dance for this fall term. As a professional dancer, I chose to pursue a master’s degree in order to eventually teach dance at the university level. I would like to create a college course in the future about the healing benefits of dance, especially for the elderly. *Please see the attached YouTube link.

From the moment I arrived in the United States, my life has been marked by resilience, determination, and a love of dance. I was adopted from China at the age of 2, after spending 15 months in an orphanage. I grew up in North Carolina and began taking classes at Greensboro Ballet in the children's dance program when I was four. By 6 years old, I had progressed to learning formal ballet, then finally progressed to dancing en pointe at 12. Learning ballet at a young age was difficult, but it was rewarding when I finally reached the peak of understanding and could build the strength to do something my body was not initially made to do. I grew to feel at home in the dance studio. Throughout this journey, my parents supported my dreams both financially and emotionally. One of my biggest successes was graduating from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts with a BFA in dance this spring. As an adopted child I am grateful for everything my parents have done for me and, as the oldest child in my household, I want to set an example for my siblings and continue my education by attending graduate school. As the next step in my educational and career journey, I will attend Hollins University while dancing professionally with Roanoke Ballet Theatre for the 2024/2025 dance season. I have been accepted to the low residency program at Hollins, where I will begin my first semester this summer. I also plan to teach dance either with Roanoke Ballet Theatre or online to gain more experience as a ballet teacher and supplement my income. My long-term goal is to continue to dance professionally and later become a professor and possibly a dean at a university. I would love to provide a safe, supportive learning environment for student dancers to thrive. Furthermore, I would love to be part of a program that uses dance to slow down the progression of Alzheimer's Disease. I want to give back by being part of a program that connects dance and the treatment of degenerative diseases. I believe this pursuit, and teaching the next generation would allow me to fulfill my purpose and calling in life. I hope you will be part of my career success by awarding me this scholarship. I am confident this opportunity will help me succeed in my next milestone.

When I was 8, my mother was diagnosed with stage three tonsil cancer. My grandfather had died of COPD and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia approximately 9 months earlier. We found out that my mother was sick after she felt a lump in her neck. She underwent surgery to remove the lymph node and her tonsils. I remember the fear and confusion when my parents told me that my mom had cancer and that she would have to be treated. I was not completely sure what cancer was at the time, but I knew it was serious because of what happened to my grandfather. I also did not understand what chemo and radiation were, but I could see that my mom was sick. My mother completed treatments and, over time, recovered. It took a while, but she eventually returned to work and her regular activities. Through my mother’s courageous battle with cancer, I learned several valuable insights. First, I believe I am more aware of the value of family than most people my age. I enjoy being with my parents and just hanging out with them. I want to make sure that I have a better balance in life between school, work, friends, and family. This shift in perspective has resulted in me appreciating relationships and quality time with others uniquely. I am happy taking walks or just sitting and chatting. I also believe that my experience with my mother having cancer has influenced my choices of colleges and jobs. I chose to complete my undergraduate degree at a university close to home so that I could live with my parents and commute. Furthermore, I will only be two hours away from home where I will attend graduate school and where I will dance professionally. It is important to me to be able to be home during breaks. I believe that my family’s experience with cancer has taught me that I am resilient. I feel that I can bounce back from difficulties because I have faced problems in the past and was able to keep going. I also have my mother as a model of resilience. She could return to work, and care for our family, while she recovered. She even took a huge risk and started her business about 6 years ago. I have become more persistent and focused because, after my grandfather’s death, I know time can be short. My academic goal of earning an MFA is linked to realizing the importance of being able to take care of myself. Furthermore, my mother encouraged me to pursue my education so that I would be able to have job security and support myself. I believe that she was concerned that she would not be able to financially support me in the way that other parents do because of her health issues. Many dancers postpone their college education until they are older or have retired from dancing. I chose to wait to fully start my professional ballet career until I completed my BFA and found out where I would begin my graduate degree this summer. In conclusion, my family’s experience with cancer has taught me valuable lessons that have shaped my outlook on life and relationships. Specifically, I gained insight into the value of relationships and cherish family. My family’s struggles showed me the importance of persistence and pursuing my dreams. As I embark on the next chapter as a graduate student I will take with me the knowledge that time is short and that I must fully commit to every moment.

As a ballet dancer, I love math. While ballet and math may seem completely different, they share underlying principles that enhance a ballet dancer’s understanding and appreciation of both math and dance. There are several specific aspects of math that help to structure and complement dance. Rhythm and timing are essential to ballet and are deeply connected to mathematical concepts. Ballet dancers are almost always counting beats and phrases in music. Understanding patterns helps dancers to grasp complex choreography. When a choreographer creates a piece, math concepts like patterns and sequences are involved. Furthermore, choreographers use symmetry when working with groups of dancers or a corps de ballet. Understanding those concepts makes it easier to create aesthetically pleasing performances. A solid grasp of geometry can help a dancer have precise movements, enhancing awareness of where the body is while in motion. Additionally, the physics concepts of balance, momentum, and force, which involved math principles, are an important part of dance. Understanding the math around the physics helps dancers to refine their movements and their technique. Both ballet and math involve problem solving and logical thinking. Problem solving is especially important on stage. Dancers need to be able to quickly calculate the changes that they experience when using live music, to match their steps to the tempo. And lastly, a mathematical brain can help ballet dancers to approach problems in a more creative manner.

I will soon graduate with my Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. This is one of my biggest successes because I achieved my goal of graduating debt-free in three years. I achieved this by saving money from a part-time job, dancing adjunctly with a local ballet company, receiving support from my parents, and earning the Frank H. Keanan Scholarship during my last year of college. Although I had substantial support from my parents for my undergrad expenses, I cannot rely on them for financial support for graduate school. As an adopted child I am grateful for everything my parents have done for me and, as the oldest child in my household, it is my goal to set an example for my two siblings and show them there is a way to help pay for their education without fully relying on my parents. My plan for the next step in my educational journey is to complete a Master of Fine Arts. I have been accepted and will attend Hollins University, beginning this summer. I will also perform professionally with Roanoke Ballet Theatre for the 2024/2025 dance season. My long-term goal is to continue to dance professionally, potentially with a larger ballet company, while teaching dance. Once I have finished my stage career, I would like to become a professor and possibly a dean at a University. Furthermore, during my coursework at UNCSA, I learned about using ballet with aging adults to slow the progression of cognitive decline. I want to be part of a program that uses dance to help patients with Alzheimer's Disease. Working at a University would give me access to others who are interested in researching the benefits of dance for people with Alzheimer’s. I believe this, and teaching the next generation of ballet students would allow me to fulfill my purpose and calling in life. While I have been awarded a small fellowship from Hollins University, it fails to meet the expenses for the seven semesters I am required to complete for my MFA in dance. Acquiring this scholarship would help to alleviate the financial burden for my initial semester at Hollins University. Your support in granting me this scholarship would play a pivotal role in shaping my career path. I firmly believe that seizing this opportunity will propel me towards achieving my upcoming milestones with confidence and determination.

Growing up, I was affected by my brother’s mental health struggles. It has affected both myself and my family, in that his behavior can be disruptive and frightening. My brothers and I were adopted, but my one brother had experienced more trauma before coming to live with our family. He was placed in our home when he was 5, and I was 8. It was immediately obvious that he had more difficulty than his twin, but was not diagnosed with ADHD, PTSD, and a mood disorder until he started kindergarten. Growing up, I had to support my brother in ways that I did not expect. I remember going to the behavioral health hospital to wait to visit him during family time and sitting in the waiting room while he was meeting with his therapist. My brother had expressed suicidal thoughts and had attacked others and some days he would act recklessly. Two different times, he tried to run away from home. Those nights, my family was worried for him and had to call the police to come and help us get him to the hospital. My brother often had severe temper tantrums, even as a teenager. I found that some nights it was better to stay in my room or outside of the house to avoid the tantrums. I believe that this encouraged me to be more independent and pushed me to attend more dance classes. There were many days that teachers approached our car in the carpool line or I was stopped by kids asking me if I knew what my brother had done that day. At first, this was embarrassing but I began to realize that he could not always control his behavior. This helped teach me compassion for others who are different from me. My brother began taking dance classes when he was 8. Although his mental health issues separated my brother and me, we were able to bond over ballet. I have noticed how ballet is calming for him, allowing him to use his excess energy positively instead of disruptively. He attends the high school program for dance at my school now. We commute to school every day and can talk about dance and our dance classes. Watching his struggles and how ballet has helped him has been encouraging to me. Part of my long-term goal is to teach ballet. I hope that I can provide a safe space for all students, even those who have difficulties or differences.

I am a senior at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts majoring in ballet. I will graduate in May 2024 and have been accepted to graduate school at Hollins University. I will start the low residency MFA program at Hollins this summer. I have also signed a contract with Roanoke Ballet Theatre as a company dancer for the 2024/2025 season. My ultimate goal is to teach at a university, which requires an MFA. When I was 8, my mother was diagnosed with stage three tonsil cancer. The year had already been tough. Nine months before, my grandfather died of COPD and Chronic Lymphocytic leukemia. This loss was difficult for my mother and I believe the stress may have contributed to her illness. Six months after my grandfather’s death, my brothers were placed in our home as foster children. This was a big transition. Within approximately three months of their placement, my mother found a lump in her neck. She underwent surgery to remove the lymph node and her tonsils. I remember the fear and confusion when my parents told me that my mom had cancer and that she would have to be treated. I was not completely sure what cancer was at the time, but I knew it was serious. I also did not know what chemo and radiation were, but I could see that my mom had difficulty eating, was sleeping more, and was losing weight. My mother completed treatments and, over time, recovered. It took a while, but she eventually returned to work and my family was allowed to adopt my brothers. During my mother’s treatments, I learned what a supportive community I am a part of and how generous people can be. My grandmother stepped in, even though she was grieving my grandfather’s death, to pick my brothers and me up from school every day and help us with homework. My school offered to tutor us too. The next-door neighbors and our church brought our family food. Everyone did as much as they could to help our lives as children go on as smoothly as possible. My mother has always enjoyed watching me dance. I told her early on that I wanted to be a ballerina. She has sacrificed her time and financially supported my dreams so that I could ultimately become a professional dancer. Now I know that my mom came to every performance, even when she was undergoing cancer treatments, in case it was the last one she would get to see. Part of the reason I have been so driven to succeed in dance is because I know how much joy it brings my mom to watch me. I also believe that my academic goal of earning an MFA is linked to my mother’s fear that she will not be able to take care of me. She has encouraged me to be independent and to pursue my education so that I can support myself. Many dancers do not finish their education until they are older or are no longer dancing. Furthermore, I believe that because of my experiences when my mother had cancer, I value family in a different way than many of my peers. This has influenced my choices of colleges and jobs. I chose to complete my undergraduate degree at a university close to home, and I will only be a couple of hours away from home with my new job and grad school. I also do not want to miss a moment with my mom and want her to be able to continue to see every performance.

K-pop has had a huge impact in the United States and globally in several significant ways. Of all the K-pop groups, BTS, my favorite, has been one of the biggest influences in the US and in my life as an Asian American. Additionally, their visibility in American pop culture has bridged a gap between Asian Americans and Americans of all races and ethnicities. Historically, Asians have been viewed in a narrow, stereotypical manner and have been underrepresented in popular media in the United States. Before BTS, I do not remember seeing many Asian Americans on stage, in the performing arts. When I have seen Asian people in the media, they were typically cast in movies involving martial arts, not dancing and singing. The rise of K-pop, especially BTS’s fame, has broken cultural stereotypes in many ways for Asian communities worldwide and has taught an important lesson about self-expression and pride. Seeing how successful BTS has been has helped build a sense of community among Asian Americans, even for those who are not Korean, and helped build confidence in being Asian. Seeing successful people who look like me inspires me to try harder with my art, giving me hope that I will be accepted and successful as a performer. Unlike much of the other music I hear, BTS has uplifting and inspiring lyrics, without the typical negativity I hear in most pop songs today. Many rap artists today use misogynistic lyrics or foul language. American pop music today tends to be about materialism and partying and mostly sounds repetitive. In comparison, BTS’s music is upbeat and fun. They have a unique sound and their lyrics are typically positive. I enjoy listening to their music because it makes me want to dance and sing along. When I am having a difficult day, I can listen to one of their songs and my mood is quickly lifted. Because the themes of their songs avoid hateful language or references to drugs, even my parents enjoy it when I play BTS’s music. After watching KDramas about K-pop Idols, I admired their training and found it very similar to the training I received at UNCSA. It was very relatable to the career I chose as a classical Ballet dancer. They work long hours crafting their dances and music. Specifically, BTS inspires others in self-love and embracing acceptance which is important in being an artist. Overall, BTS is a highly influential group that has made a global impact on Asian stereotypes, bringing people together, and giving joy to many people by creating dances and songs. Furthermore, BTS spreads positivity in the world and sets a leading example of how artists can change the world for the better.

There are two reasons my favorite Starbucks fall beverage is the hot chai tea latte. First, I love the flavor. The rich spices, especially the cinnamon and ginger, mixed with sweetness remind me of a holiday treat. The milk, mixed with black tea, is more soothing than coffee. The second reason though is more important to me and is connected to the time I spent with my father when I was younger. When I started elementary school, my father was the one who braved the carpool line to pick me up most days. At least once a week he would drive straight to the Barnes & Noble, closest to our house, with its Starbucks Cafe. It was at the back of the store, but I could smell the coffee and tea as soon as we walked through the door, intertwined with the scent of new books. I remember standing in line with my dad, holding his hand, and peering into the cases filled with cookies and scones while waiting for my drink. I now know that my dad bought me the chai tea latte because it has less caffeine, but back then it made me feel like an adult to be allowed to drink what looked like a grown-up's coffee. My father ordered the drinks in paper to-go cups so we could walk around the store looking at the books, magazines, and craft kits there. As we wandered around the store, I often caught the aroma of the spices wafting from the warm drink, while anticipating the moment it would be cool enough for me to drink. My dad enjoyed looking at the car magazines while I explored the magazines with animals in them. We always ended up in the kids' section, my favorite place because it had the Barbie and American Girl Doll books. Sometimes, there would be an employee conducting story time there, reading the latest book. On those occasions, I felt extra special because I could sit there with my drink in my hand as I listened to the story surrounded by the other children and their parents. Most days, my father would allow me to choose a book to look at or read while I had my chia and he drank his coffee. To this day, I have to get a chai tea latte when I enter a Starbucks. The smell of those spices and the sweetness feel like home to me as they are mixed with my childhood memories of my dad.

I have watched Spiderman movies with three different actors and find Tom Holland the most relatable and; therefore, to be my favorite Spiderman. I read somewhere that Tom Holland studied ballet before becoming an actor. I am attending UNCSA, majoring in ballet, and will start a master of fine arts in dance at Hollins University this summer. When I watch Tom Holland in his role as Spiderman, I can see the athleticism, flexibility, and strength required of a ballet dancer. Furthermore, I have heard that he does some of his stunts. The balance and good coordination he would have gained studying ballet make him better for the role. He also seems to have retained a young persona that makes him believable as an older teenager still living at home. Even though he is 7 years older than I am, he always seemed to be my age. His voice is even youthful. Additionally, he can take on the character in a way that seems he has good chemistry with the other actors and I can imagine that he would be fun to hang out with. I admire his dedication to his craft and ability to blend his dance and acting training in a way that brings depth to the character of Spiderman, making him truly memorable as a superhero.

As a dance major, my mental health is crucial in several ways. Ballet dancers experience pressure to be perfect in both ability and appearance. Solid self-esteem is essential for performing well in class and on stage. Increased stress can lead to being unwell or a decrease in mental well-being. While navigating school, rehearsals, time with friends and family, and daily responsibilities, I have come to appreciate having a balance that helps me maintain my mental and physical health. When I am not doing well emotionally, I find it difficult to concentrate and my relationships suffer. I fight this by intentionally balancing and integrating the various parts of my life and ensuring I have a few moments of alone time. While dedication to academic success is important, I have learned the value of maintaining various interests and hobbies such as photography, beyond my focus on school and my career in ballet. Movement and exercise comfort me when I face challenges, frustrations, and stress. Due to the hectic pace of school and dance, I often struggle to carve out rest for myself and grapple with feelings of loneliness and guilt when not actively engaged in a productive task. However, I have discovered the restorative power of walking in nature and finding peace in the simplicity of the act. I tend to notice things like birds and flowers which bring me joy. As a dancer, I love storytelling, artistry, and the athleticism of classical ballet. I have learned to complement my dance training with walks in my neighborhood or on campus. These strolls offer relief from sore muscles and mental fatigue. Additionally, I have found joy and connection in participating in my mother's morning Zumba sessions, enjoying the opportunity to bond with her while prioritizing my physical well-being. Furthermore, social connections are important in maintaining good mental health. I cherish spending time with friends during casual hangouts or group activities. It rejuvenates me and reinforces the importance of social connections with my peers in maintaining a balanced life. I have learned to appreciate the therapeutic value of confiding in family members when stressed. I often gain perspective and better clarity through verbalizing my concerns to one of my parents. Because I am now better able to recognize the telltale signs of imbalance, which for me are irritability and moodiness, I have learned to proactively integrate leisure time and social engagement into my weekly routine. Doing this goes a long way towards safeguarding my mental health. Ultimately, by prioritizing my well-being and embracing diverse activities, I have been able to have a more resilient mindset and thrive on balance, prioritizing fulfillment beyond grades and ballet.

My journey to the art of ballet began at a Chinese airport when I came to America at two years old. Neither of my parents danced, but for some reason, when I fell into a split, they recognized my potential strength in ballet. I started dancing at Greensboro Ballet in children's dance when I was four and began learning formal ballet technique at 6. Learning ballet at a young age was difficult, but it was rewarding when I finally reached the peak of understanding and could build the strength to do something my body was not initially made to do. One of my biggest successes will be graduating from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts with a BFA in dance this spring, debt-free. I achieved this by saving money from my part-time job, support from my parents, and receiving the Frank H. Keanan Scholarship, after being nominated by the dean of the School of Dance. Although I had support from my parents for part of my undergrad expenses, I cannot rely on them for support for graduate school. As an adopted child I am grateful for everything my parents have done for me and, as the oldest child in my household, I want to set an example for my siblings and show them there is a way to help pay for their education without fully relying on my parents. As the next step in my educational and career journey, I will attend Hollins University while dancing professionally with Roanoke Ballet Theatre for the 2024/2025 dance season. Although I have received a small fellowship from Hollins University, it is not enough to cover the seven semesters I am required to take to finish my MFA in dance. This scholarship would go a long way towards helping to pay for my first semester at Hollins. My long-term goal is to continue to dance professionally and later become a professor and possibly a dean at a University. Furthermore, I would love to be part of a program that uses dance to slow down the process of Alzheimer's. I want to give back by being part of a program that connects dance and Alzheimer’s treatment. I believe this, and teaching the next generation would allow me to fulfill my purpose and calling in life. I hope you will be part of my career success by awarding me this scholarship. I am confident this opportunity will help me succeed in my next milestone.

My dance journey began at a Chinese airport when I came to America at two years old. Neither of my parents danced, but for some reason, when I fell into a split, they recognized my potential strength in ballet. I started dancing at Greensboro Ballet in children's dance at the age of four and began learning formal ballet technique at 6. Learning ballet at a young age was difficult, but it was rewarding when I finally reached the peak of understanding and could build the strength to do something that my body was not initially made to do. One of my biggest successes will be graduating from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts with a BFA in dance this spring, debt-free. I achieved this by saving money from my part-time job, support from my parents, and receiving the Frank H. Keanan Scholarship, after being nominated by the dean of the School of Dance. Although I had support from my parents for part of my undergrad expenses, I cannot rely on them for support for graduate school. As an adopted child I am grateful for everything my parents have done for me and, as the oldest child in my household, I want to set an example for my siblings and show them there is a way to help pay for their education without fully relying on my parents. As the next step in my educational and career journey, I will attend Hollins University while dancing professionally with Roanoke Ballet Theatre for the 2024/2025 dance season. Although I have received a small fellowship from Hollins University, it is not nearly enough to cover the seven semesters I am required to take to finish my MFA in dance. This scholarship would go a long way towards helping to pay for my first semester at Hollins. My long-term goal is to continue to dance professionally and later become a professor and possibly a dean at a University. Furthermore, I would love to be part of a program that uses dance to slow down the process of Alzheimer's. I want to give back by being part of a program that connects dance and Alzheimer’s treatment. I believe that this, and teaching the next generation, would allow me to fulfill my purpose and calling in life. I hope you will be part of my career success by awarding me this scholarship. I am confident that this opportunity will help me succeed in my next milestone.

While navigating school, my dance career, and my daily responsibilities, I have come to appreciate a balance that helps me maintain good mental and physical health. When I do not feel well emotionally, I find it difficult to concentrate and my relationships suffer. My journey toward having a more positive state of mind starts with being intentional about balancing and integrating the various parts of my life, including my family, my friends, my work, school, ballet, and a few moments of alone time. While dedication to academic success is important, I have learned the value of maintaining a variety of interests and hobbies such as photography, beyond my focus on school and my career in ballet. When experiencing challenges, frustrations, and stress, I have found comfort through movement and exercise, being in the moment, and experiencing the joy of being outdoors. Despite the hectic pace of school and dance, I often struggle to carve out rest for myself and grapple with feelings of loneliness and guilt when not actively engaged in some sort of productive task. However, I have discovered the restorative power of simply taking a walk, immersing myself in nature, and finding peace in the simplicity of the act of walking. I tend to notice things like birds and flowers which bring me joy. As a dancer, I love the storytelling, artistry, and athleticism of classical ballet. I have learned to complement my dance training with strolls in my neighborhood or on campus, offering relief from sore muscles and mental fatigue. Additionally, I have found joy and connection in participating in my mother's morning Zumba sessions, enjoying the opportunity to bond with her while prioritizing my physical well-being. Furthermore, I cherish spending time with friends during casual hangouts or engaging in group activities. It rejuvenates me and reinforces the importance of social connections with my peers in maintaining a balanced life. Moreover, I have come to appreciate the therapeutic value of confiding in family members when I am stressed. I often gain perspective and better clarity through verbalizing my concerns to one of my parents. Because I am now better able to recognize the telltale signs of imbalance, which for me are irritability and moodiness, I have learned to proactively integrate leisure time and social engagement into my weekly routine. Doing this goes a long way towards safeguarding my mental health. Ultimately, by prioritizing holistic well-being and embracing diverse activities, I have been able to have a more resilient mindset that thrives on balance and prioritizes fulfillment beyond grades and ballet.

Success can be many different things and be defined differently from person to person. Success for me means learning something new. Being successful is about making mistakes and learning from them, then having the courage to try again. In my life, I have been successful and achieved many milestones and awards. If it had not been for my curiosity and resilience I may not have made those attempts and without the support of my parents, I may not have succeeded. I am a goal-oriented person and do not give up on things easily. I feel accomplished and successful because of what I have been able to do in my life so far. I tend to set up milestones without a limit and see how much I can achieve. My next goal is to attend Hollin’s University while dancing professionally with Roanoke Ballet Theatre. Although this seems impossible financially, I will do whatever it takes to reach my next milestone, whether it is to teach, start my online dance accessories store, or write millions of scholarship essays to pay for my grad school costs. One of my biggest successes will be graduating from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts with a BFA in dance this spring, debt-free. I achieved this by saving money from my part-time job, support from my parents, and receiving the Frank H.Keanan Scholarship, after being nominated by the dean of the School of Dance. Although I had support from my parents for part of my undergrad, I cannot rely on them for support for graduate school. It is only fair that they now help my two brothers as they go off to undergrad school in a year. My long-term goal is to dance professionally and later become a professor and possibly a dean at a University. Furthermore, I would love to be part of a program that uses dance to slow down the process of Alzheimer's. Success means following my calling and being part of a program that connects dance and Alzheimer’s treatment. I believe that this, and teaching the next generation, would allow me to fulfill my purpose and to be successful. Although I have received a small fellowship from Hollins University it is not nearly enough to cover the seven semesters I am required to take to finish my MFA in dance. Receiving this scholarship would pay for most of the first semester of the program. I will be dancing professionally next year, but the pay for professional ballet dancers is very low and I will only make enough to cover my utilities. With the expense of graduate school, I will most likely need to take out a loan. To teach ballet at a university, I need to have a professional performance career first. This will be difficult to continue with high student loan payments which could keep me from meeting my long-term goals. I hope you will be part of my career success in my career by awarding me the scholarship. I am confident that this opportunity will help me succeed in my next milestone.

One of my favorite Netflix series was Never Have I Ever. I always attended private school through middle school and then attended a ballet conservatory for high school and due to this, I never experienced what public school was like. Because my high school was art-focused, there were very few boys in any of my classes, there were no house parties and no dating. There was drama at my school and competition, but not the same type and it was generally not funny. I always considered myself lucky, but I was curious about what I might have missed. Never Have I Ever gave me a glimpse into what public school might have been. The things that happened in the high school in Never Have I Ever were hilarious and completely different from my experiences in school. I had never been in a relationship or been to a house party but it was fun watching something I had not experienced. It did discourage me from wanting to go to house parties though, because that seemed to cause the show’s characters lots of problems. Furthermore, the series taught that relationships, especially close friendships, can last through almost anything. The series had a diverse cast from different backgrounds so that everyone could identify with someone on the show. The core friend group was able to remain close even though they were so different and had unique interests. Devi’s household, with different generations living together, made it possible for people who are my parents' age to also enjoy the show and to be able to identify with the series. The series included episodes that were approximately half an hour long. This was the perfect length because they were not too long and fit into my family schedule so that we could all watch it together. The diversity allows the audience to engage in thought about social issues but in a funny, non-threatening way. I liked how a character like Devi could be a complete mess and still end up mending her issues with just about everyone. She was likable but flawed and even though she was dramatic, things turned out well in the end. I found the show inspiring because, even though she experienced a tragedy and struggled with her mental health, Devi was able to work hard towards her goals by the last episode. Even though “never have I ever” gone to public school, I loved imaging that I had.

In every book, you can learn about a different reality and perspective. Not only is it entertaining, but you can explore and learn about new things. My favorite book of all time is The Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett. I first read the abridged version when I was 9 and later read the full version 3 times. The story never gets old and reminds me to be grateful for what I have and the power that imagination holds. The story is about a girl named Sara Crewe who began life rich and pampered. However, she ends up poor and mistreated when her father is determined to be dead during military service and she no longer receives his financial support. Once she was unable to pay for her school fees, Ms. Minchin forces Sara to be a maid at the school instead of throwing her out. Despite the hardships she experiences, Sara stays true to herself and does not lose her kindness and creative imagination. This book illustrated for me the importance of maintaining your values and self-esteem, even when others dislike you or are against you. It is a reminder to spread kindness and help those who are less fortunate, even when you feel that the world has turned upside down. It demonstrates how we should respect others, even if they are different from us, and that we should put goodness out into the world. I was amazed by how Sara survived a hard situation by using her imagination. It seems that in the technology heavy world we live in today, imagination is not as easily recognized or valued. As an artist, Burnett’s story encouraged me to focus on my imagination. I could personally connect to the character as well. I am a Chinese adoptee and once lived in an orphanage. I went through hardships there but was adopted and moved to the United States. My parents were told that I was “smart” and “helpful” by the nannies who cared for me. When I was little, I was able to imagine that I had been in a place like the character, Sara Crewe, and that I had overcome.

Traveling is a transformative experience vital to a full education and a more open-minded approach to the world. Travelers are allowed to become more open to people who are different from them and to learn about cultures beyond their own. It encourages the celebration of cultural differences and similarities, which increases respect and empathy for all people. Traveling, especially to another country, requires learning and adapting to local customs, food, and languages. This challenges the traveler to be more aware of value systems that might not match their own and enhances the individual’s worldview. Being challenged to explore varied communication methods encourages one to be more creative. The traveler has the opportunity to experience increased wisdom through exposure to different forms of knowing and being in the world. This form of awareness can decrease cultural appropriation and ignorance, breaking down stereotypes held against other cultures. Prejudice against other races can be decreased as a traveler interacts with people who do not look like they look. When we are younger, we experience our world with a sense of wonder. Everything is new and exciting. This fades as we become used to our everyday surroundings, causing complacency. Traveling to a new country can reawaken the traveler’s sense of newness. It encourages experiential learning, impacting all of the senses. It brings out the excitement of investigation and exploration which can improve mood and general mental health. Travel inspires positive change no matter the age of the traveler, helps one set new goals, encourages personal growth, and enhances learning. The traveler is able to experience a sense of renewal. Travel can also increase the traveler’s appreciation for what they have and identify a responsibility, as a global citizen, for global solutions to issues outside of one’s own country and community. Citizens of developed countries can become numb to their privilege and to the struggle of people in non-developed countries. Travel can make more obvious the opportunity that everyone has to make a difference in other communities, but in an empathetic, respectful manner. I have been accepted to Hollins University and will travel to Bulgaria to study dance there this summer. I hope this trip will be a transformative experience that will impact my knowledge of dance and the world. There are many styles of dance in the world and I have experienced only a fraction of those. Travel can allow me to become a more well-rounded dancer and help me to become a better-educated dance teacher.

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As a student dancer, I have always been inspired by my teachers, choreographers, and athletic trainers who have helped me to improve my skills and artistry on a daily basis. As an artist, I want to create dances that can speak the truth about our society and that will inspire young dancers in the way that so many of my mentors have been inspiring to me. My dream is to become a professional dancer at a ballet company and then one day to become a choreographer and a dance teacher. When one of my teachers initially told me about how she envisions dance steps to music, I did not quite understand how it was possible to imagine dancing without actually doing the steps. But, after working on my own dance technique for four more years, I began to develop artistry, musicality, and I learned how to envision possible dances. I still have much to learn about creating choreography and about teaching ballet. By attending the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, I will be able to learn to teach dance and expand my choreographic skills. Ultimately, I would like to create a contemporary ballet that my own students can perform.

My path to dance began when I was 2 in a Chinese airport traveling to America. While waiting in line, I fell into a split. Neither of my parents danced but they recognized that my flexibility could be a strength in ballet. I began dance classes at Greensboro Ballet when I was 3 and formal ballet classes there at age 6. Ballet captured my heart and at the same time, set me free. Age 11 was an important year for me in dance and the year I discovered that I wanted to pursue dance as a profession. I met a creative and enthusiastic teacher, Chris Martin, who said, "We have all danced in the kitchen; it is not any different than dancing in the studio. We all know the steps, it is about perfecting them." I connected with his statement because everything he had said I had done. When I saw pointe shoes for the first time I started walking on demi-pointe and sometimes had competitions with other dancers in my grade to see who could walk on demi-pointe the longest in tennis shoes. Learning to dance en pointe helped me connect with the joy I had seen watching professional ballet dancers. I wonder what my life would have been like if I did not have dance. What would my world look like if those pivotal moments had not occurred? What if no one recognized my strengths or encouraged me to be creative? I believe that a large part of me would be missing. I love dance because it allows me to be my best self. I am introverted because I worry about what others might think of me. But when I am dancing it is okay if I am completely dramatic or if I mess up. My worry is only to strive for my best in that particular step or musicality. I love onstage classes because the music is ten times louder, I can not get caught up in the mirror, and I do not have to look at the mirror to see how small I look compared to others. On the stage, I can be freer in my dancing. When I say free, I mean that I get to choose what happens, I am the only one correcting myself during the performance. From performing, I have learned to hide my fear which has helped me to talk, participate in class discussions, and do presentations. When a performance casting call comes out I am sometimes disappointed when I do not get to dance as much as others. But in the end, I always find joy and freedom in dance. My hope is that by continuing my training at UNCSA as a ballet major. A dance major would allow me to improve my performance skills and learn to teach so that I can help others find inspiration from dance as I have.

I have been fortunate to have had the guidance of multiple role models and nurturing adults in my life. My path to dance began when I was 2 in a Chinese airport traveling to America. While waiting in line, I fell into a split. Neither of my parents danced but they recognized that my flexibility could be a strength in ballet. I began dance classes at Greensboro Ballet when I was 3 and formal ballet classes there at age 6. At that point, ballet captured my heart and at the same time, set me free. I connected to dance because of teachers who showed their artistry and told stories through their movement and teachers who inspired me with their artistry and ability to interpret the mood in a piece of music with their choreography and gave me hope. Age 11 was an important year for me in dance and the year that I discovered that I wanted to pursue dance as a profession. My teachers, Mr. Dennis and Mrs. Mayfield began to push me harder to become a better dancer. Then, I met a creative and enthusiastic teacher, Chris Martin, who said, "We have all danced in the kitchen; it is not any different than dancing in the studio. We all know the steps, it is about perfecting them." This moment was the point I knew that I needed to dance and realized it was a part of me. I connected with this statement because everything he had said I had done. As a young girl, I danced mostly in the kitchen and den. When I saw pointe shoes for the first time I started walking on demi-pointe and sometimes had competitions with other dancers in my grade to see who could walk on demi-pointe the longest in tennis shoes. Learning to dance en pointe set me free and helped me connect with the joy I had seen watching professional ballet dancers. At times, I wonder what my life would have been like if I did not have dance. What would my world look like if those pivotal moments had not occurred? What if no one recognized my strengths or encouraged me to be creative? I believe that a large part of me would be missing. I love dance because it allows me to be my best self. Most of the time I am introverted because I worry about what others might think of me. But when I am dancing it is okay if I am completely dramatic or if I mess up because I am dancing. When I am in class I might worry if I was on music or if I did the step technically correct, but it is a different type of worry. My worry is only to strive for my best ability in that particular step or musicality. I do this for myself because I can enjoy the music and act out different stories or the emotions that I hear. I love the onstage classes because the music is ten times louder, I can not get caught up in the mirror, and I do not have to look at the mirror to see how small I look compared to others. On the stage, I can be freer in my dancing. When I say free, I mean that I get to choose what happens, I am the only one correcting myself during the performance. From performing, I have learned to hide my fear which has helped me to talk, participate in class discussions, and do presentations. When a performance casting call comes out I am sometimes disappointed when I do not get to dance as much as others. But in the end, I always find joy and freedom in dance. My hope is that by continuing my training at UNCSA, I will improve my performance skills and learn to teach so that I can help others find inspiration from dance as I have.

My path to dance began when I was 2 in a Chinese airport traveling to America. While waiting in line, I fell into a split. Neither of my parents danced but they recognized that my flexibility could be a strength in ballet. I began dance classes at Greensboro Ballet when I was 3 and formal ballet classes there at age 6. I connected to dance because of teachers who showed their artistry and told stories through their movement and teachers who inspired me with their artistry and ability to interpret the mood in a piece of music with their choreography and gave me hope. Age 11 was an important year for me in dance and the year that I discovered that I wanted to pursue dance as a profession. My teachers, Mr. Dennis and Mrs. Mayfield, began to push me harder to become a better dancer. Then, I met a creative and enthusiastic teacher, Chris Martin, who said, "We have all danced in the kitchen; it is not any different than dancing in the studio. We all know the steps, it is about perfecting them." This moment was the point I knew that I needed to dance. I love dance because it allows me to be my best self. Most of the time I am introverted because I worry about what others might think of me. But when I am dancing it is okay if I am completely dramatic or if I mess up because I am dancing. When I am in class I might worry if I was on music or if I did the step technically correct, but it is a different type of worry. My worry is only to strive for my best ability in that particular step or musicality. I do this for myself because I can enjoy the music and act out different stories or the emotions that I hear. I love the onstage classes because the music is ten times louder, I can not get caught up in the mirror, and I do not have to look at the mirror to see how small I look compared to others. On the stage, I can be freer in my dancing. When I say free, I mean that I get to choose what happens, I am the only one correcting myself during the performance. From performing, I have learned to hide my fear which has helped me to talk, participate in class discussions, and do presentations. When a performance casting call comes out I am sometimes disappointed when I do not get to dance as much as others. But in the end, I always find joy and freedom in dance. My hope is that by continuing my training at UNCSA, I will improve my artistic skills and learn to teach so that I can help others find inspiration from dance as I have. This scholarship would help me to better afford to pursue those goals.

Age 11 was an important year for me in dance and when I discovered that I wanted to dance professionally. I met an enthusiastic teacher, Chris Martin, who said, "We have all danced in the kitchen; it is not any different than dancing in the studio. We all know the steps, it is about perfecting them." This moment was the point I knew I needed to dance and realized it was part of me. I connected with this statement because everything he had said I had done. I love dance because it allows me to be my best self. I am introverted and worry about what others think of me. But when I am dancing it is okay if I am dramatic or mess up. When I am in class I might worry if I did a step correctly, but it is a different type of worry. My worry is only to strive for my best. I love onstage classes because the music is louder, I can not get caught up in the mirror, and I do not have to look at the mirror to see how I compare to others. From performing, I have learned to hide my fear which has helped me to talk and participate in class discussions. My hope is that by continuing my training at UNCSA, I will improve my performance skills and learn to teach so that I can help others find inspiration from dance. This scholarship will help me to finance this goal.

Judy make others smile -@k.ettles My pet dog is unique. He is a 15-year-old dog but he is still my “puppy”. When picking his name our family read out a list of names and he got excited when we said Jude, but we all call him Judy. The best aspect of him is his reactions when he sees me. Every time I come home he is all hyped and smiles which of course lightens everyone's mood. He jumps as if he is a young dog and loves to snuggle. He is truly my best friend.

When I was 8 years old, my parents began fostering twin 5-year-old boys who eventually became my brothers through adoption. One of my brothers was diagnosed with ADHD, PTSD, and a mood disorder. He frequently had violent tantrums and seems to get into trouble at school almost every day. When he was in the second grade, he attacked my mother and then said he was going to kill himself. He was hospitalized for the first time at the age of 7. Although he is doing better, takes his medicine, and has attended counseling off and on for the last 9 years his mood swings can be disruptive and scary. My parents have to spend lots of energy helping him with school and making sure that he is staying on track. Because of my brother's mental illness, I have learned to focus on what is essential, to be more independent, and to ask for help when needed. I appreciate the time that I have with my parents because it is more limited than it was when I was younger. I have been able to identify teachers and ballet instructors who provide advice, academic tutoring, and encouragement. I also enjoy spending time with my siblings and make sure that I have fun with them, but avoid the typical sibling squabbling as much as possible. I believe that this has helped me to have better relationships with my friends as well because I have learned to be assertive without escalating disagreements. Additionally, I believe that my experience with my brother's mental illness has shaped my career goals. I have used ballet as a way to center myself. When I am in the dance studio taking a class, I am able to focus on the music and the movement and not on my worries about my brother. My brother has also become involved in dance and I can see the positive effect that this has had on him. eventually, I would like to teach dance and to share the calmness and joy that I discovered and so that I can mentor others in the way that my teachers mentored me.

When I thought about my senior year of high school, prior to COVID-19, it did not look anything like it does now. My high school is an art school and I am training there to become a professional ballet dancer. Typically, I would train in large studios with lots of space to move. Because of COVID-19, I am dancing in a taped-off 10 by 10 square in the studio or on zoom from my mother's office. I also would have been cast in a live performance of the holiday Nutcracker, but because of COVID-19, I was cast in a version that is being taped by my hometown studio. It has meant that auditions for summer training or year-round training spots with companies are either canceled or will be virtual. Prom has been canceled too and I can not spend as much time with friends. Although the pandemic has been negative in many ways, I believe that it has helped me to be more intentional and has allowed me to be more specific in planning for my short-term goals. Dancing in a defined space taught me to be more aware of my movement and to have better control when dancing. The altered performance experience helped me to re-connect to my hometown studio and to experience what it is like to film a ballet. The pandemic gave me the time to look at the benefits of college before my professional dance career starts. Additionally, I feel more confident because I have received invitations to summer training from companies that remembered me from auditions last year. Lastly, the experience helped me to connect more closely with my parents and to develop friendships with my siblings. Although I would like life to go back to normal, I am also grateful for what I have been able to gain from the experience.

As a young girl, I danced mostly in the kitchen and den. When I saw pointe shoes for the first time I started walking on demi-pointe and sometimes had competitions with other dancers in my grade to see who could walk on demi-pointe the longest in tennis shoes. Learning to dance en pointe set me free and helped me connect with the joy I had seen watching professional ballet dancers. Most of the time I am introverted because I worry about what others might think of me. But when I am dancing it is okay if I am completely dramatic or if I mess up. When I am in class I might worry if I was on music or if I did the step technically correct, but it is a different type of worry. My worry is only to strive for my best ability in that particular step or musicality. I do this for myself because I can enjoy the music and act out different stories or the emotions that I hear. On the stage, I can be freer in my dancing. When I say free, I mean that I get to choose what happens, I am the only one correcting myself during the performance. From performing, I have learned to hide my fear which has helped me to talk, participate in class discussions, and do presentations. When a performance casting call comes out I am sometimes disappointed when I do not get to dance as much as others. But in the end, I always find joy and freedom in dance. My hope is that by continuing my training at UNCSA, I will improve my performance skills and learn to teach so that I can help others find inspiration from dance as I have.

In the 10th grade, I auditioned for the school's production of the Nutcracker. There are many fun roles in the ballet, but not for someone who is 5 feet tall. I was called back for parts that are for dancers who can look like children. Most dancers never question the director's choices for casting, but I was determined to not allow my small size to hold me back. I met with the director and he agreed to allow me to try challenging roles. As a result, I danced Mirleton and was an understudy for a party scene doll.

When I was approximately 11 months old, I was left at the entrance to a highway in a southern province in China. I spent 15 months in an orphanage before I was adopted and brought to the US by my parents. Being adopted has allowed me to grow up in a loving home with caring parents and two brothers. Unlike the orphanage, my home has enough food to eat and I have my own room. Because of my parents, I have been able to have an education and pursue my love of ballet. I am grateful for having a home, a family, and for being blessed with my parents.