My name is Emely, and I am a first-generation Latina college student with a deep passion for dance. Ever since I was young, dance has been my way of expressing myself and connecting with my culture. Now, I have the opportunity to attend a dance intensive that I have always dreamed of, but I need some help to make it possible. I got accepted into my dream intensive at the Institute of the Arts Barcelona, and I need any support I can get to get one step closer to my professional career!

As one of the first in my family to go to college, I am working hard to create new opportunities for myself and set an example for my community. At the moment, I face several challenges that make it difficult for me to pursue professional development opportunities in dance. I am working three jobs as a full-time college student to pay for my tuition and help my parents with expenses. Furthermore, the BFA dance program at Alonzo King LINES, in which I am currently enrolled, is being forced to shut down due to funding cuts, and the art program will no longer exist. Although the future of my collegiate dance training remains uncertain, I am trying to make the most of any opportunities I can leverage. Life has not been easy, but I am fighting my way through the hardships with perseverance for my dream of becoming a professional contemporary ballet dancer.

This dance intensive is a unique chance for me to learn from incredible instructors, grow as an artist, and take a big step toward my goals. However, the costs of tuition, travel, and other expenses are more than I can manage on my own since I am juggling a lot of financial and medical barriers. As part of my long-term career goals, I hope to establish a dance studio in low-income neighborhoods to provide dancers with limited financial resources, allowing them to dance and explore what it has to offer. I understand first-hand how difficult it can be for aspiring dancers to enter a highly competitive industry, especially with the added obstacles presented by financial hardship and even racial bias.

Any support you can give will help me get closer to my dream. Your generosity will not only help me attend this life-changing program but also inspire me to keep pushing forward and give back to others in the future. Thank you for believing in me and helping me take this next step.