I am a dance professional with extensive experience in teaching ballet at the university level. Currently, I teach Ballet II, Ballet IV, and Pointe at Shenandoah University, where I strive to instill discipline, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the art form. In addition to my teaching career, I am an interpreter and content creator, managing a YouTube channel dedicated to fitness and dance education. My journey in dance has been shaped by rigorous training, continuous learning, and a commitment to helping students reach their full potential.
Teaching & Research:
My teaching philosophy is rooted in technical excellence, injury prevention, and artistic development. I emphasize individualized instruction, ensuring that each student progresses at their own pace while achieving high standards. My areas of interest include:
Ballet pedagogy and curriculum development
Dance injury prevention and rehabilitation
Integrating digital media into dance education
Performance coaching and artistic mentorship
Email: jsk66@su.edu | balletjesse@gmail.com
Dance professional and educator with extensive experience teaching ballet at the university level. Dedicated to cultivating technical excellence, artistic expression, and creative confidence in students. Skilled in integrating classical ballet training with modern pedagogical techniques and digital media for enhanced learning experiences. In addition to teaching, serves as an interpreter and content creator, managing a YouTube channel focused on fitness and dance education.
· Master of Fine Arts in Dance (Choreography Track)
The University of Iowa, Department of Dance — 2009–2012
Specialization: Ballet, Modern, Choreography, Improvisation, Theory, Pedagogy, and Kinesiology
Recipient of the Iowa Arts Fellowship Award (Department’s only fully funded graduate)
· Bachelor of Arts in Dance (Performance Track)
Shanghai Theatre Academy — 2002–2006
Specialization: Ballet, Modern Dance, and Choreography Performance
Graduated with Honors (Top 5% of Class; GPA ranked #1)
· Ballet Pedagogy and Curriculum Development
· Dance Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation
· Integrating Digital Media into Dance Education
· Performance Coaching and Artistic Mentorship
· Shenandoah University — 2024–2025
Adjunct Assistant/Associate Professor
Courses Taught: Ballet I–V (majors and non-majors), Pointe (Advanced Ballet), Ballet for Musical Theatre Majors, Ballet for Physical Education Majors
Designed syllabi, course plans, and grading criteria; conducted faculty meetings and student evaluations.
· The University of Iowa — 2009–2012
Teaching Assistant & Adjunct Professor
Courses Taught: Ballet I–II, Modern II, Dance Production, Choreography; assisted in Dance History instruction and served as company dancer.
· Shanghai Theatre Academy — 2002–2006
Teaching Assistant (Ballet Rehearsals)
Assisted in rehearsals for Sleeping Beauty, Paquita, Giselle, Swan Lake (Act I Trio), Don Quixote (Act III Wedding), and Le Corsaire (Act III Partnering).
· Hilo Performing Arts Center — 2014–2018
Founder, Director, and Instructor
Established and managed a performing arts center offering ballet and jazz for all ages. Designed curriculum emphasizing technique, artistry, and performance preparation.
· City Ballet School of San Diego — 2006–2008
Ballet Instructor & Company Soloist
Taught Pre-Professional Ballet, Levels 1–3, and Adult Ballet. Choreographed original works and led student rehearsals.
· Ballet Arizona — 2008–2009
Company Artist
Performed in The Nutcracker, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Romeo and Juliet, La Sylphide, and Four Temperaments.
· City Ballet of San Diego — 2006–2008
Soloist Dancer
Featured in La Bayadère, The Nutcracker, Don Quixote, Raymonda, Dying Swan, Swan Lake, and Who Cares?
· You Yu – Solo work, Gold Medal Winner, Guangzhou International Modern Dance Festival
· The Star That Burns Through the Sheets of Clouds – Duet inspired by poetry and film
· Matrix – Contemporary ballet exploring internet censorship
· Red String of Fate – Modern dance inspired by folklore
· Dream the Butterfly Dream – Graduate thesis comparing Carl Jung’s psychology and Zhuang Zi’s philosophy
· ID, Password? – Contemporary dance exploring digital identity
· Hilo Performing Arts Center (2014–2018)
Founded and directed a community dance center focused on accessible education and creative growth. Developed business strategies and marketing initiatives.
· Iowa Arts Fellowship Award (University of Iowa, 2009)
· BA Honor Graduate (Top 5%, Shanghai Theatre Academy, 2006)
· Multiple Academic Excellence Scholarships (2004–2006)
· Representative: Shanghai International Ballet Competition
· Finalist: Youth America Grand Prix (California State Representative; Full Tuition Award, Australian Ballet School)
· Gold Medal: Guangzhou International Modern Dance Choreography Award
· Hatha Yoga Teacher Certificate
· Medical Interpreter Certification
· Public School Teaching Experience (2019–2024): Prince George County & Winchester City Public Schools
· Fluent in English and Mandarin