At 55 years old, I’m living proof that it’s never too late to begin something new, or to fall completely in love with it. By day, I work as a service advisor for a large collision repair company, where problem solving, communication, and helping people through stressful moments are part of everyday life. By night (and whenever possible), I step into a very different world: the ballroom.

I began ballroom dancing just a year and a half ago with absolutely no prior dance experience. What started as curiosity quickly became a passion. Ballroom has challenged me in the best ways, physically, mentally, and emotionally, pushing me to grow, stay present, and embrace being a beginner again. Every lesson, practice, and competition is an opportunity to learn, improve, and celebrate progress, no matter how small.

Alongside dancing and a full‑time career, I’m also a full‑time student at Wake Forest. Balancing work, school, and dance hasn’t always been easy, but it has been deeply rewarding. Each part of my life feeds the others, reinforcing discipline, resilience, and a belief that growth doesn’t have an expiration date.

I dance not because I’m perfect, but because I’m passionate. I’m inspired by the journey, the community, and the joy that ballroom brings. My goal is simple: keep learning, keep improving, and keep showing up, on the dance floor and beyond.