Student profile
Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.
As the wooden stick repeatedly hit the brick to the beat of the music, I heard my teacher instruct, "5, 6, 7, 8". In a split second, I found my position in the dimly lit and claustrophobic backstage. At my cue, I made my way across the stage, confidently executing the steps I had practiced numerous times. My dance-mates and I continued with our annual performance, dressed in bright, extravagant Indian costumes, doll-like makeup, and heavy bells attached around our ankles. I maintained my balance and formations, letting the music take control. The sound of the audience's harsh, thundering applause pulled me back into reality.
For twelve years, I have immersed myself in my passion for Bharatanatyam, a form of Indian classical dance. In 7th grade, when I first began performing in my maroon and yellow costume, I felt the uniqueness of each piece of traditional clothing and jewelry; wearing these, my culture and history came to life.
From learning basic steps at five years old to improving my technique over the years, I have mastered intricate dances that tell a story or critique societal values. Every dance consists of varying levels of emotion, and being able to learn and connect to a story created thousands of years ago, expressing the feelings of the original artist, is both a privilege and a sacred experience. Dancing about social differences, such as the treatment of the rich and the poor, provides insight into the lifestyles of people from diverse classes.
Originating in the region of Tamil Nadu, Bharatanatyam has kept me in touch with my roots. Attending Tamil school on Sunday mornings, where I studied the Tamil language, and then going to dance class immediately afterward, strengthened both aspects of my background. Being fluent in Tamil, I am able to understand the lyrics of songs that I dance to, which allows me to fully express the emotions of the dance. With every performance, I hope to communicate with the audience, who generally may not be well-versed in the meanings behind certain hand symbols or phrases of songs, and convey to them the messages behind the dance through my facial expressions.
Understanding dance has helped me appreciate my rich culture and recognize the history behind it. In my family, we celebrate Tamil culture and holidays such as Pongal, a harvest festival, and Tamil New Year. I love helping my mother cook Pongal, a special rice pudding, and decorate our house with complex and elaborate Kolam designs. I started volunteering at Tamil School to help other children learn the difficult language that opened a pathway to cherishing my identity. I teach my students Tamil through simple songs and dances. As I explain the stories behind the songs, the five year old students learn about our shared legacy.
In dance, I can add my own variations to my movements by connecting to my own stories and what I learned about my family throughout childhood. Dance class with my closest friends, our garage where I practice my formations, and Classroom 54 of Tamil School all hold the parts of my identity. Through dance, I am able to artistically express myself in ways words simply cannot convey. Reflecting on the stories of my ancestors grants me invaluable incentive to pass down my heritage to others who, like me, will flourish from their Tamil culture.