Senior Spotlight: Kayla Joyce

Senior Spotlight: Kayla Joyce

15 Years Dancing at Sharon’s Studio of Dance & Music, $450 Scholarship

Studying Kinesiology

Since I was 3 years old, I've gotten to call Sharon’s home. I do not remember much from my pre-k combo classes, but I know that I have always loved to dance. Going on stage during recital was the highlight of my year, and I loved to watch the big kids dance. As the years went by, just dancing at recitals turned into numerous competitions, and somewhere along the way I had become one of those big kids that I had looked up to so many years ago.

I got the opportunity to join the competition team 11 years ago, which was truly the best decision I've ever made. I was a very nervous kid growing up and was anxious about just about everything. But at Sharon's I was surrounded by teachers and friends who supported me no matter what. From getting to do solos to dancing with my friends in all of our group dances, I've been able to build confidence in myself not just in dance, but in the rest of my life as well. Dance has challenged me in situations where I have to step out of my comfort zone and overcome challenges, which may have been hard at the moment, but I am so grateful because they have shown me that I am capable of more than I think. Dancing has not just taught me how to move, but life skills that I will have forever. The discipline, commitment, and perseverance that I have learned will stick with me for the rest of my life. 

There truly aren't the right words to express how much I am going to miss Sharon’s. From long competition weekends, to my late night solo privates with Miss Amanda, there is nothing more I will miss. Going to the studio everyday and getting to see and dance with my best friends is an experience I will forever be grateful for. While my senior year is coming to an end I've come to a realization that I can find dance anywhere I go, but I can never replace all of the amazing people around me that makes dance so special. As Winnie the Pooh says, “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” 

Thank you Miss Amanda, Miss Vicky, Miss Kari, and Miss Tina for all that you have taught me. I am so grateful for you always pushing me to be the best dancer and person I could be. Thank you to Miss Sharon, Miss Tammy, and Miss Susan for giving me such an incredible place to grow. I am forever thankful to be able to call Sharon’s my home.