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Senior Spotlight - Emma

Graduating Seniors
June 06, 2024•2 min read

Class of 2024 Spotlight - Emma

With recital right around the corner, we are shining the spotlight on our graduating seniors one at a time. Today, we're thrilled to celebrate Emma, who has danced in all styles and in Company at The Pointe. Emma is a Linn-Mar HS Graduate and 11-year PSD dancer! She is an excellent role model for our younger dancers and has been an assistant teacher for many Dance & Discover classes! In addition to dancing at the studio, Emma is a four-year member of Linn-Mar Poms.

This year, Emma has competed in group dances, a solo, and performed as the Snow Queen in our first Nutcracker production. In Emma's own words, here are some dance career highlights and advice for dancers.

How long have you been dancing?

I started dance at four years old at the studio, and moved to Dubuque for three years where I continued dancing and started competing at the age of six. After moving back, I have now been at the studio for eight years, making this my eleventh year of competing. Freshman year, I made Linn-Mar’s JV pom team and went in to make varsity my junior year!

What is your favorite routine that you've performed?

My favorite routine has to be “Covergirl” which was my jazz 3 dance choreographed by Vanessa Terrell.

Favorite dance memory?

Choosing my favorite dance memory is hard because there are so many. However, if I had to pick one, it would be walking off the finals floor at UDA nationals with my team. The feeling is so surreal and is so special to share with such a close family. Coming off the floor and feeling so proud and confident is a memory that will stay with me forever.

Favorite genre of dance (and why)?

My favorite genre of dance is pom because you get to be sharp and hard-hitting plus you get to dance to multiple songs in one routine!

I love dancing at The Pointe because....

Dance has been something that I can always work at and constantly get better. There is never a point where you have nothing else to learn. Not only have I improved my dance skills over the years, but dance has changed who I am as a person and taught be to be the best version of myself.

What are your plans (as of now) for after high school?

Right now my plan after high school is to attend Iowa State University and major in Athletic Training!

What advice would you give younger dancers?

Never give up something you really want. I know it sounds really cheesy but if you have any goal for yourself, you can reach it. Whether is be making a team or getting your splits flat, if you really want it, nothing can stop you.

Miss Vanessa is the owner and director of The Pointe School of Dance. She has been sharing her passion for dance and mentorship with students for over 10 years. In addition to teaching at the studio, Vanessa has taught and choreographed for a variety of dance programs and performing groups throughout Iowa. Her choreography has won several “Best Choreography” and “Judges Choice” awards. She is the founder and director of The Pointe School of Dance. Vanessa is also the founder of The Pointe Foundation, a 501(c)3 charitable organization. In addition to her work at the studio, she is dedicated to improving the dance industry by serving as a Certified Coach for Youth Protection Association for Dance and More Than Just Great Dancing. Outside of her work, Vanessa lives with her husband, Dan, who is a band director at Linn-Mar High School and their son, Ray.

Vanessa Terrell

Miss Vanessa is the owner and director of The Pointe School of Dance. She has been sharing her passion for dance and mentorship with students for over 10 years. In addition to teaching at the studio, Vanessa has taught and choreographed for a variety of dance programs and performing groups throughout Iowa. Her choreography has won several “Best Choreography” and “Judges Choice” awards. She is the founder and director of The Pointe School of Dance. Vanessa is also the founder of The Pointe Foundation, a 501(c)3 charitable organization. In addition to her work at the studio, she is dedicated to improving the dance industry by serving as a Certified Coach for Youth Protection Association for Dance and More Than Just Great Dancing. Outside of her work, Vanessa lives with her husband, Dan, who is a band director at Linn-Mar High School and their son, Ray.

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