Dear Janie -- Evaluations

Evaluations are important and necessary. Schools have them at certain times of the year and of course information is gathered daily through observation of your performance, your attitude, your attendance, etc.

Certainly each school has a protocol in terms how they approach the student, time spent with them and the topics they cover. The focus can be different depending on the teacher's style and the student's level and needs.

You are right to inquire about how they approach their evaluations. You can glean information from other dancers. You can also ask your teacher or whoever is in charge by asking them about the process as time draws near.

You may also ask for an evaluation/discussion with a teacher outside of the scheduled evaluation. If you have concerns, or are struggling, etc. Teachers can be pretty accommodating to have a discussion with you. So approach them if you are so inclined.

This is a good time to give some thought to your goals. Because if you are clear about what you want, where you are headed, then the evaluation has more clear meaning and can offer feedback and direction in relation to your goals. I know you have goals, yet they may not be 'developed.'
You will see what I am talking about ...

Let's start there -- I know you want to dance professionally. You are in a ballet training program. What do you want? Have you written out your goals on paper?

Many people do not realize that putting a goal/desire on paper takes it out of the mind and brings it out into the world. You write it. You see. You read it.

Do that here. Write out your goals. Write it out in longer form and then you can arrive at a simple statement. Then we will tweak it. You have to really feel it otherwise you lose the juice. It can create a powerful drive within you.

Some folks speak with uncertainty (if at all about their goals), sometimes a hesitancy to speak, or fear that if I say it and don't make it ... then what? You have to breathe power into what you want .. and of course image it --- We will get there.


Sanna Carapellotti, MS
Performance Specialist

PS -- Goal defining is so important in the performing arts.