Ever since I was 2-years-old I have been dancing. I remember walking into the dance studio with my little pink leotard and skirt on ready to be a little ballerina. I remember learning the basics and tapping my little toes at recitals. I remember the excitement of leaving every class with a lollypop. The most important thing I remember is my first dance teachers.

I looked up to these women. Not only physically, because I was tiny, but I thought they were awesome. I wanted to dance just like them. I literally wanted to be like them. I even named my pet fish after my dance teacher. My dance teachers helped me become not only the dancer but the person I am today.

Without my dance teachers I would be so shy. I wouldn't have come out of my shell if it weren't for dance. Whenever I was too scared to try a new dance move, you showed me that it was okay. Whenever I fell, you helped me up. Whenever I doubted myself, you pushed me to keep trying. Without you, I would not have gained the confidence I have today.

My dance teacher helped me find an escape. Dance slowly became my life. I turned down plans for dance class. I walked into my studio excited to be able to have a few hours of peace. My dance teacher helped turn my studio into a second home.

Through dance, I learned how to push myself even when I thought I couldn't do something. All through the help of my dance teacher. She worked one on one with me to show me what I was doing wrong and how to fix it. She gave me constructive criticism that I could use to make myself better.

I learned through dance to not be scared. I can stand on stage and perform in front of tons of people and not worry. This is because my dance teachers gave me nothing to worry about. They helped me have faith in myself.

My dance teachers helped me learn how to be competitive in the best way. I learned to compete with my peers, in a positive manner. They taught me how to be the graceful young woman I am today. To stand up straight, to construct myself in the best way possible.

I thank every dance teacher I have ever had. Not only have you taught me how to dance, something I want to do forever. But, you have helped build me into the young woman I am today.