“I love how secure I feel when I am in the building. Bad day or good, I always feel supported and at rest when I am in the building. It’s an Academy motto, but there is a real, unique sense of community at The Academy. Being able to have friends and teachers that feel like they’ve become a part of your family is awesome.”
Over the past couple weeks we have been honoring our seniors as they graduate The Academy and move on to the next chapter in their lives. We have also had a chance to interview a few seniors and senior families about their future plans, what they love about The Academy, and what they will miss most. See below for more from Isaiah Day, Dance. Next year, Isaiah will be attending The Juilliard School to earn his BFA in Dance!
Isaiah credits The Academy for helping him get to where he is now.
“I can not stress enough that The Academy played an important part in me getting here. I look back on videos of me dancing freshman year and I notice a big change. It does not just relate to me, but when I look at my friends, I see transformation. The academic education has influenced my arts training. I’ve learned a lot about perseverance and tenacity through academics and that carries over to my art form.”
Isaiah had a message for incoming students and those who don’t attend The Academy.
I want new students to know that The Academy is always changing in good ways. Each year is different, and I would suggest to always be open to change. Also, realize that your peers are artistic resources. There are so many talented students at The Academy and they are worth personally investing in. And I wish my peers in other schools knew what they were missing. The Academy is one of a kind.”
Isaiah also reflected on his favorite Academy moments.
“My favorite performance was the 2019 Mix at Six at the Harris Theater. I can’t describe the feeling I had when I was on that professional stage. Also, I was able to perform a student choreographed work, “A Saturday on Timber Lane,” choreographed by Lillie Yokom (Class of 2019). I think you would have had to be there to truly experience it. And I will always remember The Academy’s Teacher Parades. After a long summer break, it is the best feeling to see the wonderful faculty and staff again. I think the sound of the applause grows every year.”
Congratulations Isaiah!