David’s Story
Performing Gracefully
David first discovered dance at age six while watching his older brother’s tap performance in his hometown of Columbia, MO.
He describes what happened next as “miraculous.” The owner of the dance studio offered to fund David’s dance training, which lasted for years and included summer camps, national competitions, intensives, and more.
He’s incredibly grateful for his benefactor, Miss Nancy Laurie. “Everything that I have is because of her.”
“I call it a sign from God, where it was like my occupation chose me, and I started dancing.”
But her generosity left him wondering, “Why do I deserve this?”
While immersed in his craft at a young age, he had no intention of becoming a professional dancer. He wanted to be a doctor. But another mentor told him at age 12 or 13 that he had great potential, and he eventually believed it, too.
Transformation
When he arrived at Purchase four years ago, he was passionate about his journey, even describing himself as “bullheaded.” He added, “I’m going to run through whatever wall, whatever challenges are going to be in my way. That meant people, too,” he says.
He admitted he needed to “break his ego,” and gradually, it happened.
“I wanted to think I didn’t care about other people’s opinions, but I really do.
“And that really fed into the actual human soul that I am on stage because [performing] started coming from a place of ‘this is service’…it feels a lot better when you’re in a position to give.”
Traumatic Twist
During David’s junior year, he tore the meniscus in his left knee. His negative thoughts spiraled, as he falsely believed,
“I’m only important and valuable if I’m doing the thing I do. I needed to change how I think.”
He leaned on his faith and the love of those around him to get through those tough times.
Scholarships Matter
As a recipient of the Adopt-a-Dancer scholarship, he remains incredibly grateful for the financial support and the confidence it has given him.
“Sometimes we need somebody to tell us that we’re doing the right thing. And that confidence alone will help me through the turmoil and the challenges that are going to come up.”
Now a senior, he has fully recovered from his injury and appreciates everything more. He recently learned that he’s been invited to join the Limón Dance Company upon graduating this May.
“Okay, now be thankful. Like all you have is what you make of it. It’s always a choice. It’s just about loving those around you and being present.”