When I was little, my mom put me in everything from martial arts to recreational hiking and everything in between and beyond. It wasn’t until I was put in a dance class at the closest studio to home (with my then-best-friend) that I truly found my love. Throughout the years, dance has challenged me. It taught me to let go of perfection, or at least my idea of it. I learned how to work through difficult and trying times, as dance was NEVER truly easy. It taught me how to work towards a goal and value what I have. And more than anything, I also made friends. My friendships with the beautiful people that made up the I’hde Rather Be Dancing Competitive Team will last long after I leave and start a new life here in Columbus. They have seen me at my best and my worst, and together we were unit of art and passion. Dance was been and will always remain an important part of life, as it reminds me of all the lessons I learned and memories of my youth can bring me up when I am down.