Advice For Dancers Starting Dance College

Starting dance college or going back to dance college after the summer break for dancers can be both exciting and daunting. At dance college you dance full time, working on both dance technique and artistry in a professional setting and for a lot of dancers this will be the first time experiencing this. With the right preparation and mindset, you can thrive in this new chapter. Here are some starting dance college tips to help you succeed.

Adjusting As You Go Back To Dance Every Day

Full time dance college means you will be dancing all day, more likely it will be more dancing than you have ever done before. It will take time for your body to build the stamina and get used to this, it is important to manage fatigue and listen to your body. College is about learning so be open to new training methods and styles you may not have experienced before. 

Balance Dance, Studies, and Wellbeing

Remembering balance matters is a key piece of good advice for starting dance college. You will be trying to juggle rehearsals, technique classes, academic work and your personal life all at the same time. Make sure you get plenty of rest, are eating healthy and are looking after your mental well being so you can perform at your best. 

Take Feedback as a Tool, Not a Criticism

One of the best things about starting dance college is that you will get to learn from industry professionals who will push you to strengthen your technique and discover who you are as a dancer. Try not to take corrections and feedback personally but instead see them as a positive, treat them as a stepping stone to improvement and be glad your teachers are helping you to become the best dancer you can be. 

Build Connections in Your Dance Community

When heading back to college remember that the people around you can become lifelong collaborators. Dance college is a great place to network with teachers, choreographers and even your peers.  Be supportive, professional, and engaged. Building relationships early is part of preparing for a successful career in dance. 

Stay inspired 

Another good piece of advice for starting dance college is to stay inspired, this is just as important as training hard. When you’re in class and rehearsal all day, dance can sometimes feel like routine. Keep the spark alive by watching performances, exploring choreography, or journaling your progress

Use these starting dance college tips to guide you through your year, embrace every opportunity that comes your way and don’t forget to have fun! Starting dance college is also a great excuse to get a whole new dance wardrobe, from dance leotards, dance shoes and dance tights you will need them all as you will want to start dance college looking and feeling your best. 

Good luck and happy dancing! 

The Move Dance Team