Photo by Hannah Mayfield

Where did you train?

Growing up, I trained under Shai Rosen at a studio called “The Company”. There, I received more or a commercially focused education, mostly working in styles Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Improv, Ballroom, and Hip-hop. And for the past year and a half I have been training at Barnard College at Columbia University under Colleen Thomas-Young. There, I have been more immersed in the concert world, focusing on my Modern and Ballet training. Between both spaces, choreography and creative collaboration has been my main focus and curiosity.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by the taste of my mother’s signature Mediterranean salad, the sound of my father playing the piano, and the introspective conversations I share with dear friends, I create to express my love for the people, perspectives, and places that touch me.

Describe yourself in three words.

Joyful. Open. Connected.

Tell us a fun fact about you.

In addition to dance, I do ceramics! And for the past half year, I have been working as an instructor at a ceramics studio in Santa Monica called ArtimeBarro!

What does it mean to be a part of USC Kaufman?

To me, being a part of USC Kaufman means existing in a space of constant creation and collaboration, always making and imagining. Waking up every day inspired to feel, to share, to reach, and connect. It means being a part of a community grounded in love, acceptance, and understanding. It is a home where I am taken in by an organism much larger than myself—a purpose I cannot see with my eyes closed but can feel with my arms wide open.