Today we are featuring Miss Victoria in our latest edition of “Getting to Know You”!  The “Getting to Know You” series helps us get to know each of the Dance Connection teachers and staff we get to see at the studio every week and learn a little bit more about them.

What is your hometown? Islip

What’s the story of how you became a dancer?  I started dance at 2 years old. Dance has alwaysbeen a part of life. I’ve been dancing over 20 years. As soon as I was able I joined the Teacher Training Program and held every position up to and including today.

What impact has dance had on your life? Dance has given me confidence. Learning how to express myself and dance on stage is a freeing feeling. I started with just one class a year, which turned into two, then three, then I joined the Petite Company, later the Junior Company, then Senior Company. I participated in NYC workshops and was in all levels of the Competition team. I went from being a shy little girl, to someone who eventually loved dancing as part of a team who worked hardto have my own solo. Being on the competition team has given me rare opportunities such as dancing in Walt Disney Word, and on Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruises.

Why did you start teaching dance? I couldn’t wait to work alongside my teachers. As a 9 year old it was all about the special attention and respect you receivedfor being in the teacher training program…. and the shirt!

What are you passionate about outside dance? I love working with kids, so much so that I decided I wanted to teach for a living. I also love spending time with friendsand family.

What question do you wish students would ask sooner rather than later? I wish they would ask for help sooner than later, rather than having them be confused.

In your opinion, what makes dance such a great activity and art form? It is a GREAT way to express yourself. I especially love choreographing and as a teacher it is so rewarding to see the end result when it all comes together at the recital.

College and Major? St. Joseph’s College, majoring in Education (Dual Major: Elementary and Special Ed.)

Favorite Color? Purple

Favorite Dance Movie? Highstrung

Special Talent? When I laugh REALLY hard, my jaw jiggles uncontrollably. It makes everyone laugh 😊