As we patiently await our final steps out the door the energy in our class is that of a child, walking for the very first time. Of course there are good days and bad days, but come take a walk around the 3rd floor at Juilliard and your ears will be filled with the sounds of raucous youths. Yes, you better believe we're screaming with excitement for our release into the wild. I hope when the fresh scent of "Real Life" sets in I'm delighted by the smell. Many of us aim for jobs right out of the gate, and I believe my classmates are the people to do it. Some of us are nervous at the moment with still a lot left to do, and others relaxed and enjoying the final ride, but all of us in high spirits for the future. Crazy to think that 4 years ago we were just about to embark on this cliché but true, "Roller Coaster Ride" and it has been just that and more.
My personal quick story is coming to Juilliard as a transfer student after 2 years at Point Park University in Pittsburgh. I loved the idea of starting fresh, maybe not having to do four more years fresh but I couldn't have been happier with my decision. Being in school previously I had developed certain ideas of dance and the dance world. Ignorant and naive back then, I thought I knew it all. Arriving at Juilliard I instantly became a baby walking for the first time. I had many preconceived notions and in a matter of a few days they were all diminished. Over the next four years I'd learn the greatest tools, to allow me the utmost freedom artistically. You see, Juilliard doesn't just produce dancing machines, Juilliard produces the most stunning and dedicated performers. These master minds pushing the boundaries of their craft compacted into one room really pushes you to better yourself. At least that stands very true for me. We've all grown together, been given these amazing skills, and it's time now to make it happen. The potential for different career paths in the arts with the training from Juilliard is endless. I was excited at the possibilities of being a dancer, singer, and actor. I didn't just want to dance anymore, I wasn't content with that. I wanted to do it all. The teacher's here handed me their wealth of knowledge along with combing the five borough's of New York City I've had experiences I can't wait to tell my grandkids.
Now I can certainly say I've made the best of my time here in NYC. Thats not to say that I'm leaving anytime soon that's still up in the air, sorry mom and dad. But being able get pizza at 4 in the morning after a night out is priceless. Not to mention the lights and tourists of Times Square, discovering secrets in Central Park, and particularly odd encounters on the subway. I wouldn't change a thing. It seems as if these past four years have come and gone in an instant but I've made connections and memories to last me a lifetime. And if there's anything I can say to my class, "You've done me proud, even being around you 24/7 you never cease to inspire me with your artistry."
Check out Senior Production it's going to be the cat's pajamas!
Stay Classy,
Taner