How to Make the Most of Your Summer Dance Program

Every month Role Call Prep shares dance career tips and industry advice to help advance young artist’s skills. This month we talk about summer dance programs.

How to Make the Most of Your Summer Dance Program
by Sarah Horne

Summer programs are an incredible way to learn about a college you are interested in. It not only gives you a glimpse into your future college lifestyle, but it’s a chance to see if the program is a good fit for you (and if you’re a good fit for the program).

Here’s a few tips to help you make the most of your summer dance program:

Focus on Your Own Growth

It’s easy to get in your head and compare yourself to everyone else in the program. But you are there for a reason - whether you want to learn from a specific teacher, grow your repertory, advance your skills, get to know the school, or all of the above. 

Focus on what you want to get out of the program, not if you are a “better” or “worse dancer” than someone else. Take it one day at a time and zone in on your own growth. 

Make Connections

Try to connect with other students and especially the teachers. This will give you a great deal of information about who your future classmates might be, and how you will be taught. 

Feel free to ask questions and get to know people. Just be respectful of people’s time.

A solid piece of advice -- treat others how you want to be treated because being friendly leaves a good impression. And, you never know who you might need to call on in the future for help, jobs, or advice. 

Take Care of Your Body and Mind

Self-care is extremely important. You want to push yourself but don’t overdo it. You don’t need to impress anyone but yourself, and you certainly don’t want to get injured. 

Make sure you pack healthy snacks and drink enough water. Make sure to warm up and cool down. Bring a journal if you want to take notes about your classes (this is also good so you can remember how you felt at the program and if you want to apply to the school!). 

Do whatever you need to do to feel good and get rest!

Experiment

Summer programs are also good times to try new things - both inside and outside the studio. 

Feel free to try a new class or do something you might not have thought about doing before. Take chances and don’t be afraid to fail. 

When you try new things you develop new experiences and grow in your heart and mind. This will make you a better person and dance artist. Plus, you might fall into something you love!

Here’s another great article about preparing for summer dance programs.

Have a great summer and most of all, remember to have fun!

Questions or Concerns? Always feel free to reach out to us!

Photo Credit: Jurien Huggins