Spotlight on Students is a feature that showcases WYWLA students 

and cool experiences they've had and/or recognitions received.

This month, we highlight Buvani Senthukumaran and Zoe Schwartz!

What made you want to start dancing?

 At first, I didn’t want to dance because I was very shy, but my parents signed me up anyway, and I ended up really enjoying it.

 Which one do you like more, jazz or lyrical, and why?

I prefer lyrical because the movements feel more expressive. I especially enjoy the dramatic and exaggerated movements that come with that style.

Who or what influences your dancing the most? 

My dance teachers influence me the most. They push me to improve and help me grow as a dancer.

How do you prepare mentally and physically before performing?

Before competitions, I prepare by reviewing the choreography with my team and stretching to keep my body flexible. Mentally, I try to stay calm and not too nervous.

How do you handle mistakes when they happen during a performance?

I rarely make mistakes on stage because the routine is drilled into my memory. If I ever do, I stay focused and act like nothing happened.

Do you want to keep dancing professionally or just as a hobby? 

I want to keep improving and moving up in dance, but I don’t see it as my ultimate career goal. For me, dance is a hobby that I truly enjoy.

What’s one goal you have for yourself as a dancer this year?

One goal I set for myself this year is to achieve my middle split.

Is there a dream performance or competition you’d love to be part of? 

I don’t have a specific dream performance because I already love the ones we do. 

How has dancing changed the way you express yourself?

Dancing has helped me express myself more confidently, especially since joining. Even if I don’t always show it, it’s made it easier for me to connect with others and speak up.

What challenges have you faced while learning dance, and why do you think they helped you grow?  

One challenge I faced was falling behind when I couldn’t practice. Catching up taught me how to learn faster and adapt quickly, which helped me grow.

What does dance mean to you personally, and why do you think it’s shaped who you are today? 

To me, dance means teamwork. It’s shaped who I am by teaching me how to work with others and by surrounding me with amazing peers who inspire me.

What inspired you to start singing?

My grandmother. She was a professional painter, dancer, and she also enjoyed music. Whenever I was at her house, we would always listen to different songs, and I enjoyed trying to sing along and just hearing the notes. I continued to sing and tried different instruments until I discovered the piano and started taking lessons to improve my music skills.

What is a goal you have for singing/songwriting?

I want to write songs that make others feel happy about themselves for who they are. Most of my music is inspirational, and is what I would like someone to say to me whenever I’m having a bad day. It would be amazing to encourage others to find their passions or feel motivated to be themselves because of my music!

Who do you take inspiration from when writing songs, and why?

I usually take inspiration from whichever artist I’ve been listening to recently. I might hear a song that gives me an idea, which I take and turn into something completely new! Sometimes, I find inspiration from my friends and family, and I’ll write about my relationships with people and how I feel when I’m around them.

Who is your favorite artist and why?

Definitely Florence + The Machine. Their first album is so unique, and Florence Welch’s voice is so special! The lyrics are quirky in a very relatable and poetic way. The mix of all the instruments used in their songs adds a lot and makes them very fun to listen to!

How do you prepare yourself to perform a song in front of a crowd?

Before I go in front of a crowd, I always try to do some vocal warmups and drink some water. I do some stretches so I’m not super stiff and can sing properly, and try to ‘sing’ the song in my mind just to make sure I can remember the whole thing, even though I may be really nervous.

Do you get nervous when performing? If so, what helps you calm down?

Definitely! I think most people would, but it’s about not letting the nerves get in the way of your performance. Personally, I use the triangle breathing technique: breathe in for three, hold for three, exhale for three, and repeat. I also run my hands through my hair if it is down, and count a repetitive motion that I can do easily and without drawing major attention. I like to tap my fingers together or count my breaths.

If you were to perform with any artist, who would it be and why?

It would be amazing to perform with any artist, but I would have to choose JESSIA. I really admire her songwriting skills, and she sings with such confidence; her songs make her seem like she could accomplish anything. I’ve never seen her in concert, but I can imagine she would have a really engaging stage presence.