Dance Student Spotlight: Valentina Romano

My name is Valentina Romano and I am 9 years old. I live in Zapoan, Mexico and I dance at Paty Geyer Dance Center.

@vale_romano_a

Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.

At the age of 3, I felt the desire to dance ballet. From the first day I took classes, I felt the taste and passion for dance. In my ballet studio, I was selected for elite ballet and jazz. Currently, I practice 6 to 7 days a week, and my goal, with the support of my family, is to be able to dedicate myself to dancing. I have the blessing of having the support of my family, my director, and my teachers, who always support and advise me.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?

It is definitely not easy since I have sacrificed playing with my friends, vacations with my family, and going out. Since there were 2 years to be able to compete, I managed to win medals and scholarships. Ballet definitely requires passion, commitment, dedication, and sometimes physical exhaustion, but it is definitely worth everything to compete and see the fruits of my sacrifice and dedication.

What personal limitations if any did you go through in your young career?

Fortunately, I have always had the support of my family and my director and teachers.

Has anybody ever tried to limit you on what you could do? If so how did you fight it?

I was fortunate to participate in an elite group in PGDT in which I am the smallest, with a difference of 3 years from the rest of my team. At first, it was hard for me to reach the level, but they have not limited me. I also have full support.

How do you conquer negative talk?

I have a positive attitude and am proactive and the most objective with my performance.

What is your favorite quote?

"Practice makes perfect." - Original Author Unknown

So, what’s next? Any big plans?

I want to participate again in Youth America Grand Prix in order to be in the top 12.

I also want to continue participating and maintain the excellent results I obtained in 2022 this coming year 2023 in the following contests I will participate in; Sheer Elite, Attitude, Jump Dance Festival, and Ballet Festival. I want to improve day by day, obtain better opportunities, and continue growing professionally.