Tania Gole, Grade 12
UWCSEA Singapore (Dover)
Economics gives individuals the tools for understanding the commercial world, and physics allows us to describe the nature within where we live. Initially, I was the type of person who assumed these were the substantive topics that students opted for. I shared the views of my peers and family. Yet my perspective on these subjects did a 180 when I decided to drop higher-level Physics to pursue higher-level Dance instead, after my first term in IB.
For a very long time, Dance was merely a hobby, not worth the academic credentials. I followed the conventional route, prioritized intellect because I thought that heavy academic subjects could make me happy, but it didn't.
Dance is my passion, so I broke the pattern. At first, I was afraid of people's judgments. Not many people in our school pursued IB Dance, and the majority of my grade did Physics. As someone who wanted a conduit to express my emotions and, in some way, distress from the IB, Dance as a subject was calling me.
As I joined the class, I found myself letting down my guard, becoming happier and enjoying myself a lot more. But the subject has also allowed me to see the broader purpose of this art form.
Dance allowed me to explore different feelings within my movements; I also found more depth in the subject as I researched its role in various cultures.
As part of my investigation in Dance, I explore two dance styles. I studied the role of Bhangra and Hip-Hop within their respective communities and was given insight into two styles that, on the surface, seem different but instead stem from the same values and beliefs. Both styles have overcome adversity, bringing in people from all walks of life together, no matter their background, race, and religion. It is incredible to see how much of an impact these styles have had globally. Organically as time has evolved, these styles have found their place within the dance world. My research showed me that Dance brings people together and sheds light on pertinent issues, through public performance or personal expression.
A big part of my journey was the internal struggle that came with dropping out of the subject. For a long time, I enjoyed the natural sciences but felt that something was missing. However, the way I got over that is majorly due to the support around me. Through conversations with faculty, family, and friends, I was able to see that following your heart is the way to go. The UWC community has stressed the importance of self-independence and happiness. I would not have been able to continue forward with my decision if it was not for the people around me. Happiness, a lesson that seems universal, was a big lesson I learned from this whole experience.
Following your heart and opening your eyes to the reality of how you are feeling. Be yourself, and you will do well in whatever environment that you are in. If you are not happy, do something to change it. UWC has definitely taught me this lesson.
For a very long time, Dance was merely a hobby, not worth the academic credentials. I followed the conventional route, prioritized intellect because I thought that heavy academic subjects could make me happy, but it didn't.
Dance is my passion, so I broke the pattern. At first, I was afraid of people's judgments. Not many people in our school pursued IB Dance, and the majority of my grade did Physics. As someone who wanted a conduit to express my emotions and, in some way, distress from the IB, Dance as a subject was calling me.
As I joined the class, I found myself letting down my guard, becoming happier and enjoying myself a lot more. But the subject has also allowed me to see the broader purpose of this art form.
Dance allowed me to explore different feelings within my movements; I also found more depth in the subject as I researched its role in various cultures.
As part of my investigation in Dance, I explore two dance styles. I studied the role of Bhangra and Hip-Hop within their respective communities and was given insight into two styles that, on the surface, seem different but instead stem from the same values and beliefs. Both styles have overcome adversity, bringing in people from all walks of life together, no matter their background, race, and religion. It is incredible to see how much of an impact these styles have had globally. Organically as time has evolved, these styles have found their place within the dance world. My research showed me that Dance brings people together and sheds light on pertinent issues, through public performance or personal expression.
A big part of my journey was the internal struggle that came with dropping out of the subject. For a long time, I enjoyed the natural sciences but felt that something was missing. However, the way I got over that is majorly due to the support around me. Through conversations with faculty, family, and friends, I was able to see that following your heart is the way to go. The UWC community has stressed the importance of self-independence and happiness. I would not have been able to continue forward with my decision if it was not for the people around me. Happiness, a lesson that seems universal, was a big lesson I learned from this whole experience.
Following your heart and opening your eyes to the reality of how you are feeling. Be yourself, and you will do well in whatever environment that you are in. If you are not happy, do something to change it. UWC has definitely taught me this lesson.
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