DLMimi_summerintensive_MAINMy first summer intensive audition was for The Houston Ballet. I was twelve years old and really didn’t know much about the dance world. My mom was the one who suggested I start doing auditions for summer programs, since I was of the appropriate age. I remember not being nervous, because I didn’t fully understand that I was actually doing an audition. I just thought I was taking another class. The class was ages 12-18, so I was the smallest one in the room.

When the class was over, we returned the numbers and as I was leaving, they called me back into the studio to inform me that I had been accepted with a full scholarship. I was so excited! I called my mom immediately. I had no expectations for the audition, and suddenly was offered to train at the prestigious Houston Ballet – free of charge. I accepted the offer right away, and that was my first summer program.

I think of it as my first real taste of finding out what it takes to become a professional. My eyes were open to all the other talented dancers from around the world.

It was a big wake up call, lots of hard work, and I learned so much. It was definitely difficult at twelve years old, but it only sparked my interest even more, and drove me to push harder.