ABT Ballet Summer Intensive Texas

My name is Veronica Hughes and I'm 15 years old.  I've been dancing at South Bay Dance Center in San Jose, CA for the past 8 years.  During these 8 years I've come to really love the art of ballet.  In January, I auditioned for and was accepted to American Ballet Theater's(ABT) Summer Intensive Program in Austin, Texas.  This is a four week ballet "boot camp" where I will be living at the University of Texas , Austin, and will be studying multiple dance disciplines with the emphasis on ballet technique.
 
I dance 6-7 days a week and train in all disciplines of dance.  My training time can add up to or exceed 24 hours a week, especially when preparing for a show.  Additionally, I attend an all girls college prep high school and maintain above average grades.   Dance has helped me with my time management and discipline as in order to perform in the shows, I have to make sure that I train and eat properly along with getting my homework done.

I'm not your prototypical ballerina as I am built similiar to ABT soloist Misty Copeland.  Because of my body type, I've had to work extra hard to advance in ballet.  By attending ABT this summer, I will have the opportunity to train under world renowned instructors and directors such as Wes Chapman.
Unfortunately, I was not awarded a scholarship for ABT.  The cost to attend this Summer Intensive, including airfare, instruction, room and board, dance wear, shoes, etc., costs over $4,600.  My parents and grandparents have done their best to always support my dancing, but unfortunately, they need assistance to help make my dream come true.

Thank you so much for taking the time out of your day to read this.  I hope I was able to convey to you how important this experience will be for me.