Tight buns, cold rehearsals, uncomfortable costumes and strict coordination are all a part of being on a dance team, however, junior Aubrey Bowen seems to find joy in her rigid schedule.
“When I’m stressed at school, or with anything, I can just go to dance and forget about it. That helps my mental health,” Bowen said.
Balancing commitments to the Junior Varsity Dance Team and Underground Dance Company, Bowen faces a packed schedule every day of the week. Despite this, she places equal importance on education by taking three AP classes now and in past years all while dancing.
“Dance has given her a sense of security and trust as well as the ability to express emotions within herself,” Bowen’s mother Melissa Mulville-Bowen said.
Amid everything, Bowen finds time to squeeze in any homework possible during breaks at her dance classes. When home, she usually stays up late trying to finish up anything that’s left. Bowen plans on keeping this as her consistent routine.
“Even though she was experiencing difficulty, she was very tough and never stopped fighting,” Junior Varsity Dance coach Emily Goy said. “I am so proud of her.”
Last year, Bowen endured some medical difficulties, but after everything, she got right back up and adapted to what she had missed. She continually works on improving her techniques, according to coach Goy, she is” going to do great things in the future.”
“This girl was born to be on a stage,” Goy said. “She is captivating to watch.”
Bowen shows passion through her movements, not caring what others think. According to Goy, her bubbly, energetic personality comes as a package in everything she does. Even when Bowen makes mistakes, she owns up to them and learns.
“We are proud of Aubrey because she works hard to achieve her goals through determination and dedication,” Bowen’s mom said.
Bowen runs on the treadmill and maintains a healthy diet at home in preparation for dance. She pushes through the hardships while relying on her home activities which boost both her strength and stamina.
“Everything’s just a mind game,” Bowen said. “If you tell yourself you can push through it, you can do it. Your body always gives you more than your mind thinks.”
