Irish Dance Research Paper

Living in a small town , bordering downtown Boston, I have always felt comfortable with an inner city lifestyle that my family lives. Having all of my extended family living within five blocks, and everything just around the corner from my house, I have always felt at home in my tight knit community. Having my dance studio right up the street, directed me into the right lifestyle and kept me out of trouble for as long as I can remember. Although living in the city, I have surpassed the stereotypes set for inner city kids, by working hard and committing to an important hobby, Irish dance. For as long as I can remember, Irish Dance has been my entire world. At just two years old, my mom tied my shoes, getting my triplet sisters and I ready for practice. With my aunt being the teacher, I grew up in my dance studio, making it feel like it was my home since I was there most of the time. When I would walk through the front door, the lime green walls would reflect onto my clothes and I knew I was meant to be there. The loud music would ring in my ears, and I would get ready to work hard. I could feel the vibrations under my feet and could feel the
Learning to balance my schedule and manage my time was a key factor in my everyday schedule. From missing days of school to compete at regionals, nationals, or worlds, I always stayed on top of my school work. As I grew older, dance became more challenging, as my love for it diminished. I used to be one of the best dancers my age division, but everyone seemed to be catching up to me. It was frustrating knowing that all of my hard work was not paying off, and every loss made me more discouraged. I pushed through the losses for many years, and finally decided to take time off. I found myself back in the studio only ten months later, ready to work harder than ever. My time off made me realize how important dance was in my life, and I much I needed