I was recently stepped up to being a co-captain of the Cavalier Dance Company at Cabrini after one of the original captains transferred and the other two had two much on their plates. I didn't want to see the club that brought me so much happiness during my freshman year crumble so I decided to step up and take the responsibility of running the club. I have dreamed of being a dance captain since I was 3 years old and I didn't realize how much work being captain actually is until I got this position. Luckily, I have a co-captain but I have my work cut out for me. Between taking 16.5 credits and running a team, I have to prioritize my time to get good grades and coming up with routines for my team. If you're in the same boat as me, here's some advice on how to be a student and a captain.

1. Your academics ALWAYS come first

Your school work is the most important thing and the social aspect of college comes second. As hard as it may seem to run a club and take college courses, find time to do all your homework,projects, etc. before AND after your club meets and reach out for help so you don't fall behind.

2. Get your teammates' opinions

There's no "i" in team and two captains can't make all the decisions so include the entire team on important decisions like choreography and different opportunities to perform. This way, new members feel more comfortable and will most likely stay in the group.

3. Don't be a DIVA

Like I said in number 3, include everyone on team in the decision-making process. Just because you're the captain doesn't give you the right to act like a diva. If you act like a diva who thinks the world revolves around you, that is the best way to get people to hate you. Don't have the "roll out the red carpet" attitude. You weren't always the captain so treat your teammates the way your captains treated you.

4. Encouragement

Don't treat your teammates like they're 5 but when they're doing well make sure you tell them!

5. Team Bonding

Nothing works better than some team bonding. Whether you go out to the movies or hang out in the dorm rooms painting each other's nails, having a get together is a good way to bond and make lifelong friendships.