Maya Ordonez

Dance

The anticipation before stepping on stage, bright lights shining overhead, the sound of
applause growing louder, heavy breathing, red lipstick, sore muscles—all dancers experience
these. My life has always been intertwined with dance. When I am dancing, a part of me
becomes alive which does not happen with anything else. Dance brings a feeling of freedom and
joy to express myself in ways I would not normally. I dance for myself because it is my passion,
but I also dance for others, so they can take something away from it, whether it be hurt, joy,
sorrow, or love.
Everyone deals with stress in different ways, and mine is through dance. Dance is self-
expression without using words, just movement and music. I look forward to going to dance
every day after school to abandon worries and do what makes me happy. While dancing, I can let
go and allow my personality to shine through. The sound of music through the speakers, a room
with dancers rehearsing steps, workout clothing, ballet barres— this is my element. Dance is my
body's way of relaxing, and it has become a necessity that is almost therapeutic. My dance studio
is my safe place, where I find happiness and friends that have become family, all brought
together by the art of dance.
It fascinates me how dance is an art form, yet it takes an athlete. Depending on my mood,
I connect differently to each genre, like lyrical when I am sad, or hip-hop when I feel powerful.
Every part of who I am resonates with the variety of styles in which I am well-versed. I find
comfort in the opportunity to put on a facade and be whoever I want to be in the moment. I am
constantly finding ways to improve my technique, artistry, and individual style by finding the
balance between strength and gracefulness. No matter how much I train, there are countless ways
to improve.
I love being able to tell a story relating to a song or my emotions, and making the
audience feel a certain way is key. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing a face in the crowd
and connecting, sharing a moment. Dance is a universal form of communication: no one needs to
speak the same language; one just feels what the dancer is feeling. Dance is a living and
breathing masterpiece that can break social barriers, but it is also a bridge that draws a
connection from the dancer’s emotions to the audience’s. That moment I share with someone is
not something I can spend hours in the studio training for; it is something genuine and human. I
make it my goal not to win the biggest trophy at competitions but to leave the audience with a
message from the emotions poured out on stage.
Since the age of three, dance has taught me valuable life lessons, such as dedication,
teamwork, artistry, and reliability, and I have applied these qualities to many areas like teaching
young dancers, behaving professionally, and engaging a large group of people without saying a
word. My life is filled with rehearsals, shows, and competitions, all of which have taught me
how to manage my time efficiently. In addition, I have gained more from dance class than just
the steps. I now have experience with how to form relationships, problem solve if plans are not
executed perfectly, and communicate effectively around hectic schedules. Although I have
decided not to major in dance, I intend to apply what I have acquired throughout the years to
help me succeed in life’s endeavors. I know my passion for dance will keep me going for many
more years to come because the tools I have acquired along the way will influence my
interactions and shape my future. Wherever I go, I will have confidence that dance has molded
me into the person I am.