Meet the graduate: Sophie Walters

Trained: Annette Roselli Dance Academy

Now: Training in Second Year at Elmhurst Ballet School, England

What is the main overall lesson you learnt?

The main overall lesson I learnt was that if you have the work ethic, determination and passion for dance, then you can achieve your goals and dreams. They emphasized that if you show up every day with self-motivation, the right mindset, and express your love for dance every chance you get, you will take in as much information and knowledge as possible, and gain so many skills and attributes that you will need as a professional in the ballet industry, and for the rest of your life. I am so lucky that my teachers guided me in the right direction, and gave me so many unforgettable opportunities that have allowed me to be the best version of myself in both dance and as an individual.

What is your best memory of your full-time dance training?

My best memory would have to be my Solo Seal Exam. I was so fortunate to have my three teachers, Miss Annette, Miss Helen and Miss Patricia, supporting me on the day of my exam, and it was beyond special as they have taught me right from when I was a little 3-year-old girl. Completing all of the RAD exams, from Primary to Solo Seal at the same studio is something not many people can say they have done, so this was something I was so blessed to have experienced at ARDA with them by my side each and every moment. It was an incredible feeling leaving the exam room for my very last exam, only a month before I moved overseas to continue my ballet training, and giving those three inspiring women a massive hug, knowing that they were the ones that have encouraged me and believed in me right from the start. If it wasn’t for them, I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today, and I owe them so much.

The 2023 Full-Time Studies Guide in the July/August/September print issue of Dance Australia. Print is for keeps. Buy your copy at your favourite retail outlet or on-line here or subscribe here.