My second fall at Connecticut College has been busy, but amazing. I came into this year ready to solidify my Majors, and apply for what Conn calls “Integrative Pathways”. Last Spring I declared my Major in Dance and this Fall I decided on my second Major called American Studies, an interdisciplinary major that will allow me to study Government, Psychology, and Environmental Studies. I was also accepted into the Social Justice and Sustainability Pathway where I will explore issues I am passionate about by intentionally combining interdisciplinary coursework with off-campus learning experiences, and work with faculty and advisers to develop an animating question that is meaningful to me. I look forward to beginning my Thematic Inquiry course for the Social Justice and Sustainability Pathway and building deeper relationships with Social Justice Organizations in New London. I worked on developing the Sunrise Movement Chapter (a climate justice organization) on campus and organizing events for that. I was also in two dance concerts, one for Dance Club where I choreographed a piece, as well as performed, and the most recent Department Concert. I had the opportunity to work with David Dorfman and also Guest Artist Ronald K. Brown of Evidence Dance Company. This was such an incredible experience learning from such an icon in the dance world. The piece we learned and performed was originally set on the Alvin Ailey Company, so there was a lot of pressure, but their guidance, wisdom, and support were valuable and I wouldn’t change that experience for the world. I have also begun planning my application for studying abroad next fall, hopefully in Copenhagen or London based on the programs I have found. I have taken many valuable courses, learned and grown boundlessly, found so much joy, and built so many important relationships at Connecticut College so far. I cannot wait to continue. I could not have done this without MVYouth. The support has meant so much to my family and me, and I cannot thank MVYouth enough. I am forever grateful.

My first semester at Connecticut College has been an incredible experience. These first few months came with many exciting opportunities and moments. I remember Connecticut College truly starting to feel like home after taking my first class in the Dance Department and being introduced to students and professors. Welcome Weekend was busy and exhausting, but I felt inspired again after taking this class and meeting people at the senior/first year dance major brunch. These were some of the moments when I felt things beginning to click. I felt embraced by the community, and it meant so much. In our first two auditions (for Dance Club pieces and the Department Concert), I was nervous, but reminded myself how grateful I was to be there, and to simply give it my all. The audition for guest artist Jennifer Archibald’s piece was intense, but I was lucky enough to be cast in her piece along with other students who I am so inspired by. Getting to work with Archibald (learning and growing in those rehearsals) was an unforgettable experience I do not take for granted. I already have immense love for the dance program and the people in it.

My courses this semester were titled “Thriving in the Anthropocene” (my first year seminar), Introduction to U.S. Government and Politics, Movement Techniques II, and Elementary Spanish. I joined the Dance Club, Students Demand Action Conn Coll, and Amnesty International. I’ve also spent time in Sprout (our campus garden), and volunteered with friends at a local food pantry in New London. I’ve met so many wonderful people, some of my closest friends, and have already learned so much. I cannot thank MVYouth enough for the opportunity that they have given me to grow and thrive, and one day give back to the island community. I am incredibly grateful.