February: Juwan Alston

February Post: What have you loved most about your college career so far? People, shows, socially

There is an acronym that is very popular today, B.A.E. To my understanding B.A.E. stands for before anyone else. The University of North Carolina School of the Arts is truly more than anything I could have ever asked for in a school. While not perfect it is definitely going to allow me to be successful in the future. Being in a place that fosters and values artistry is extremely beneficial to becoming a well-rounded artist. The community of Fighting Pickles (my school’s mascot) is very tight knit, and they are constantly looking out for each other. I know of a dancer that was struggling to find housing for a summer intensive program and a fellow Pickle graciously opened their house to them. I love the sense of community that we have not only among current students, but faculty and even alumni are all extremely supportive of what we are doing at UNCSA. I have reached out to alumni, and they have all been ever so gracious enough to actually talk to me and provide me with guidance and wonderful advice.

The rehearsal process for the shows are extremely demanding. As we get closer to the shows the longer the days are. Something I found to be difficult is working to find the balance to maintain my academics on top of my rehearsal schedule and trying to get adequate amounts of sleep. I don’t know about y’all but when I am tired I am not motivated to do anything but have a meeting with my pillow and the back of my eyelids. Being able to do what I love all day, has been such an experience. The place where I am in has allowed me to learn so much about myself and I am able to grow and mature as a person. I love meeting all of the new people and making connections with other artists. Interacting with people who are passionate about something, inspires me to continue to push on, especially on the really hard days. I honestly find it quite challenging to put into words how much I love this school.



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