Ashley Thorndike is a licensed clinical professional counselor, longtime dance educator, and founder of Dance and College Counseling. With a PhD in Dance Studies, an MEd in Counselor Education, and a BFA in Modern Dance, she brings a rare combination of mental health expertise and firsthand academic experience to college and career planning for dancers.
Ashley and I are both products of college dance programs and have gone on to mentor dancers through this process, so I absolutely loved connecting over this topic! Our conversation is jam-packed with everything from the complex admissions process to building a broad, sustainable career in dance.
Key "Pointes" from this Episode:
Ashley's winding path into dance and her academic journey through the University of Utah, the University of Virginia, and Ohio State University where she became the first person to earn a PhD in dance studies.
The biggest mistakes dancers make when applying to college dance programs.
How families can explore financial options when loans and personal resources do not cover the cost of a dance education.
How to identify the right college fit as a dancer and what to look for during your search.
The importance of moving beyond a one-lane mindset and exploring the many paths available within the dance world.
Why college is a uniquely valuable time to explore interests beyond dance.
How a long, meaningful dance career can take many different shapes, even beyond performing on stage.
What dance faculty are looking for at auditions, based on Ashley's experience serving on an admissions committee.
How to approach your interview as a dance applicant and what questions you should and should not be asking.
Advice for parents who feel uncertain about their child pursuing dance as a college and career path.
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