My Anchor by Jillian

My Anchor by Jillian - January 2025 Scholarship Essay

From the moment I took my first dance class at the age of three, I fell in love with dance. By seven, my talent and dedication led to an invitation to join the competitive dance team, where I quickly learned the importance of perseverance and teamwork. I was the one always encouraging my peers to give their best, which often set the tone in the studio. Over the past 14 years, my passion for dance has only deepened, and I am eager to bring that enthusiasm to my college experience.
Competing against talented peers taught me invaluable lessons about humility, compassion, and sportsmanship. I learned that every dancer on that stage, myself included, has a unique story and set of strengths. Winning or losing became less important than sharing the experience with others. Dance instilled in me the belief that comparisons are not only unnecessary but counterproductive; we each shine in our way and at our own pace.
As I grew within my dance studio, I became increasingly aware of the toxic environment surrounding me. I witnessed insincerity and immaturity among the older dancers, which significantly impacted my high school dance experience.
The constant negativity and criticism created an atmosphere of extreme stress and low motivation, leading me to consider quitting more than once. It was difficult to perform at my best in such an unsupportive environment.
At times, leaving the studio felt like the easiest option, however, everything changed with the arrival of a new studio manager. She taught me the importance of not letting others diminish my love for dance, a passion I had cherished since childhood. She held me to higher standards, both in and out of dance, emphasizing that I should focus on what I could control instead of trying to change others' behavior. Her mentorship has had a real impact on me.
The lessons I learned from her shaped me into a better, stronger person. I embraced the positive attitude she instilled in me, applying it to my daily life. This shift not only helped me navigate my junior year but also inspired me to try to help others. I became more involved in teaching and mentoring younger dancers, determined to try to help them avoid the challenges | faced. My goal was and still is to ensure they continue to find joy in dance, free from the negativity that once plagued my dance experience. Teaching has not only reinforced my love for dance but also allowed me to grow as a leader and mentor.
Through these experiences and challenges, I've learned the importance of resilience and perseverance which have helped me overcome the demands of high school when I felt overwhelmed and uncertain about meeting my own and others' expectations. I am learning that setbacks are growth opportunities, teaching me to face difficulties with a positive attitude and an open mind.
As I look ahead to college, I am excited about the possibility of continuing my dance journey in a new environment, sharing my experiences, and learning from others who are equally passionate.