Shadow Ridge is full of many talented students who pursue awesome things outside of school. For example senior, Kali Hamilton is a brilliant dancer. Hamilton has spent many years dancing as she started when she was quite young.
Hamilton says, “I have been dancing for 14 years, my mom put me in a tutu and turns class that started it all.”
Dance has been an overall awesome experience for Hamilton as she has grown grateful for her experiences.
“Dance has allowed me to be able to meet such talented people and experience unique opportunities,” Hamilton adds.
Hamilton is a versatile dancer being able to perform in multiple genres, however, like any dancer, she has her favorite.
Hamilton adds, “My favorite genre of dance is hip-hop because there’s no strict technique or style to it. There’s more freedom with it and it’s just more fun in general.”
Hamilton has also come to learn that dance is about much more than just actually dancing.
“When I first started dancing competitively, I used to only think about winning and didn’t know how to work as a team. But over the years, I’ve learned that you have a better chance at winning and growing with your team rather than individually because your team is all you have sometimes. And, because the relationships and opportunities I’ve been given are better than any trophy,” says Hamilton.
Though dance has been full of positives, there have been some challenges that have presented themselves, however Hamilton has especially been able to learn from those low moments.
“Hamilton says, “It’s challenging to remember that you can’t compare yourself to someone better than you because you don’t know the type of training they’ve had or how long they’ve been doing dance and winning is not always the goal.”
The lessons Hamilton has learned from dance have made sure she is prepared for her future of handling the issues of life.
“Dance has helped prepare me for my future because it’s shown me patience and taught me how to use my flaws as motivation,” Hamilton says.
Though there have been many ups and downs within Hamilton’s dance career overall she has found a sense of reward.
“Over time, making a family within my team and growing with them and also getting to see how far I’ve come has been so rewarding,” says Hamilton.
