From the time I was 2, I knew that my version of self-expression would be dance. I would take my sister's dance wear and find any kind of music I could to dance to. For 19 years of my life I spent time in a studio pouring my heart out to various songs, in various forms of dance.

There is something that those who have never found emotion in movement will never understand. Having the ability to tell a story with the body that was affected by the story you're telling cannot compare to any feeling in the world.

Even if I wasn't dancing for an audience, there was just something about processing your emotions. When a song starts and you begin moving, there is a sort of freedom that is wider than any words or rhythm can do.

Sadly, after 19 years, I walked away from dance when I came to college. Throughout the things I've experienced here, I can say I always miss it.

There is never a day that I don't get in the car and find some song that just brings movement. Before I know it, I have launched into a full dance party in my car. Some days I long for that freedom I knew all those years ago.

Every song I hear takes on a persona in my head and choreography forms in my mind.

Moving on from something you love is never easy but sometimes it is necessary. I walked away from my first love to focus on my future.

I get a lot of criticism for not finding a way to incorporate it into my life, but some things are left better as cherished memories. Like I said until you know that freedom you will never be able to wrap your head around it but it is essential to who I am.

I will always know what it means and feels like, whether it is in a dance studio or my kitchen while the oven toasts the cookies I just finished mixing.

The love I felt was not for sharing my story or experience with the audience, my love came from a place of self-admiration. It stemmed from having the ability to move in a way my body felt compelled to let out the stress and joy I felt throughout the day.