#ballerinaturnedphysicist

My real first love in life was ballet. I fell in love when I was just a few years old. From that moment, ballet provided me with more than the gift of dancing with grace and pointed toes. It taught me discipline, hard work, and self evaluation. For better and worse, I grew to become my biggest critic. 

When I walked away from ballet at 16, I walked away from my first love. There was no turning back, I could not regret my decision, no matter what. No one told me that I would not make it as a dancer, in fact I was asked to stay. I chose the path on my own terms. As I walked away I took with me the skill set to pursue anything, but at a cost. Determination and motivation, but knowing there is always more improve, it is never enough. 

“Only perfect practice makes perfect” 

The last few weeks leading up to my exam, I was the only one putting the pressure on myself. No pressure from mom and dad, no pressure from my supervisor, just me. I chose this path, no regrets. 

As I sit and wait for the results my emotions are all over the place. I have a new confidence for where I am and how hard I have worked to get here. I am lucky to have the opportunity to learn so much and be able to even take the exam. I put my best foot forward, with perfectly pointed toes. In the hidden moments, I have the fear of failure. That my hard work was not enough. With every email I hold my breath. Any day now, I will be able to exhale.