It was really special for me to get to work with so many amazing teachers and staff, and I left feeling like a new dancer. My biggest personal goal this summer ballet intensive was to gain confidence in myself as a dancer, and to really hone in on my strengths and what makes me special. It was so interesting to see how my roles varied each week in style, and it helped me get out of the mindset that I am only able to do one thing. For example, I have often been typecast as a shorter dancer that does all the fast, small footwork, cute variations. As much as I absolutely love doing things like that, in the past it has been because teachers say I will never be able to do the leggy, jumpy, or turning variations. It was really important to me that I got to prove to myself this summer that I am capable of doing more, and I want to thank the Burklyn Ballet teachers and staff for giving me this safe space to do so. How one perceives themselves can really impact their career, especially in a job like this, and it was exactly what I needed going into my first professional position. I have had a lot of friends and peers comment on a positive change in my demeanor. I still have so much more to learn, and I think my goal next summer would be to really continue building who I am as an artist.