What led you to the world of ballet?

    My mom enrolled me in dance classes when I was three. For many years, I was a competition kid where I competed in tap, jazz, lyrical, etc. Ballet was never my forte, and honestly at that time, I found it quite boring. However, it wasn’t until my mom took me to a series of ballet performances at the Kennedy Center that I received my first real taste of ballet. The deciding factor that led me to pursue ballet was when I saw Miami City Ballet perform Rubies at the Kennedy Center when I was about thirteen. When the Tall girl took her first step on stage, I knew instantly that ballet was what I wanted to do and that one day I would perform that role.

What are the most important lessons you learned from your schooling both at home and summer courses?

    Dedication and discipline. I didn’t seriously begin to focus on ballet until after my freshman year of high school. My school at that time did not consider ballet a legitimate course to fulfill their athletic graduation requirements. When I returned to ballet, I found myself struggling to keep up with other dancers and noticed that I was not the favorite in class, so I had to work incredibly hard. I truly believe the discipline and dedication instilled at home led me to various summer courses and eventually to PNB.

Can you explain the process you went through to become a member of PNB?

    After I graduated from high school, I attended PNB’s summer course in level 7.  I had received two very generous scholarships from SMU and NYU. It was a difficult decision, but in the end, I knew ballet was what I wanted to do so I took a year deferment from college to see if ballet could be a career possibility. Luckily, Francia accepted me, and I was a PD for two years and ultimately hired as an apprentice.

What have been the most rewarding roles you have danced and why?

    The most rewarding role would definitely be the Tall girl in Rubies. That was a tremendous feat and was very emotional for my mom and me because my dream from so long ago had actually come true. I have also loved Dancing on the Front Porch of Heaven, In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated and Siren from the Prodigal Son.

Do you have any advice for younger dancers?

    Even though there will be hard times, don’t ever give up if ballet is something you really want to pursue. Work each day to your ultimate potential so that in the end you will never regret not trying your best. Ten years ago, I never thought I would be a professional ballet dancer. Now, after so much sacrifice, passion, and dedication, I feel so lucky to do something I absolutely love.  I would never trade this for anything in the world.

Are there other types of dancing you enjoy?

    I love salsa dancing!

What is one thing people might not know about you?

    I have an obsession with nicknames, which constantly evolve. I never call my friends by their real names!