Chelsea Hilding Major: Dance MFA

Hometown

Brattleboro, VT

High School

Brattleboro Union High School

Major(s)

Dance MFA

Career Plans & Goals

To teach ballet in higher education

Why did you choose UNCG and specifically UNCG for the Arts?

I read a paper by B.J. Sullivan who is a professor here in the dance department and knew I wanted to study with her.

Are you where you thought you’d be when you first came to campus?

No, this program has surprised me in so many wonderful ways. I have been able to dig into areas of interest in ways I was not expecting. I have developed a real love for research in particular.

Peak experience?

Getting to be a part of this dance community. They truly feel like family.

What surprised you?

How supportive everyone is of each other and genuinely want everyone to succeed.

Who helped you get to where you are now?

My cohort has been the biggest support in this journey.

What do you think you will miss the most after you graduate?

I will definitely miss the community and taking classes every day.

Advice for the incoming class?

Don’t be afraid to take changes and be compassionate to yourself.

Describe the moment you knew you UNCG was for you (or alternatively the moment you knew you were in the right major):

I came to take a tour of the school and everyone looked like they were having fun and supporting each other. The atmosphere in the dance building is warm and one that honors the individuality of all of the dancers.

Your favorite place on campus and why?

201A. The texture of the floor feels like velvet and when everyone moves together in B.J.’s class it sounds like waves on the beach.

Your favorite professor or class and why?

Picking a favorite seems nearly impossible, but I have loved all of Dr. Ana Paula Höfling’s classes so much. Her enthusiasm and passion for research is inspiring.

Anything else you would like to share about your experience at UNCG and in your major that you think prospective students should know about?

Grad school is challenging in so many ways, but it is absolutely worth it. This is a truly special program.