Company 12 The Recruitment Playbook

From Studio to Minnesota: Vivian's Dance Journey

Explore Vivian's path to the Minnesota Premier Dance Team.

Dancing has been a lifelong passion for Vivian Amos, who began her journey at the tender age of two. In a candid conversation with Chrissy, Vivian reflects on her competitive dance upbringing and the pivotal steps that led her to join the Minnesota Premier Dance Team.

Early Training and Discovery

Vivian shares, "I danced competitively at a studio for about eighteen years... I didn't start looking into college dance team until I was about a junior." It was a whirlwind of a journey that began with injuries and uncertainty, but it ultimately propelled her towards discovering the vibrant college dance scene.

With her first clinic in 2023, she found herself immersed in the world of collegiate dance teams. "It was just super overwhelming, but also super exciting to see what possibilities could happen," she says, highlighting the various avenues available in dance team culture.

Choosing Minnesota

As the conversation unfolds, Vivian recounts her decision-making process. Despite considering other options, Minnesota felt like home. "Every time I kept thinking about going somewhere else... Minnesota was here, Minnesota was here," she explains, emphasizing the strong connection she felt toward the university and its renowned sports media program.

The distance from her family posed challenges, especially during events where family support is crucial. Yet, Vivian found solace in the friendships she built and the community around her. "My family visits me all the time... I could not be happier that I am where I am," she affirms.

Growth as a Dancer and Individual

Reflecting on her freshman year, Vivian admits to the struggles of independence. "I had really like dorm issues... and I had no family around to help me, and that was really hard. But honestly, I feel like I've really grown as a person and become way more independent."

Through the challenges, she emerged stronger and more self-sufficient, embodying the growth that comes with stepping out of one’s comfort zone.

Technique and Training

In the context of her dance training, Vivian highlights the importance of specialized coaching. "When I started working with Company Twelve, I really dove deep on my technique... those were my favorite sessions because I just could feel myself working hard."

Vivian’s commitment to refining her skills showcases her dedication to both her personal growth and her contributions to the Minnesota team.

This journey from a small studio to the stage of a prestigious college dance team is a testament to Vivian’s passion, resilience, and the power of following one’s heart. As she continues to thrive in Minnesota, her story inspires many aspiring dancers to embrace their unique paths.

For a deeper dive into Vivian's journey and insights on collegiate dance, listen to the full episode.

Lena's Journey to the University of Kentucky
Discover the challenges and triumphs of a freshman dancer's path.
Lena Leja, a freshman at the University of Kentucky, shares her inspiring journey from Pittsburgh to college dance.

Embracing the Challenge
Lena's transition to college has been filled with excitement and hard work. As she juggles her nursing major with dance performances and practices, she reflects on the hurdles she faced along the way.

"Dance is dance... you need to lock in. Kentucky is your dream. If you wanna get there, these people they know who they want."
Lena emphasizes the importance of focus and determination. With her first basketball game on the horizon, she is ready to embrace the challenges ahead.

A Journey of Growth
Lena recounts how she discovered her passion for dance in high school, initially thinking college dance wasn't for her. But with encouragement from her mom, she attended a Colts Combine, which opened her eyes to the possibility of dancing at the collegiate level.

"I was like, wait, maybe I do want to do this."
Through hard work, she began attending clinics and training intensively, despite setbacks like a broken foot. Lena's journey involved tough decisions and a lot of self-reflection, particularly as she navigated the competitive landscape of college dance.

The Importance of Confidence
Throughout her journey, Lena learned that confidence was key.

"You have to believe in yourself as much as I believe in you... that confidence isn't gonna soar unless you do."
With perseverance and a change in mindset, Lena began to shine at combines, culminating in her successful tryout for the Kentucky dance team.

Support from Home
Lena credits her high school dance teachers for their unwavering support. They understood her ambition and allowed her to balance her studio commitments with her aspirations for college dance.

"It's not like I'm going and just missing... I'm doing something for my future."
Her classmates also motivated each other to pursue their dreams, creating an environment of shared determination.

Reflection
Lena's experience serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience and community in pursuing one's dreams. Her journey is still unfolding, and as she embraces her time at the University of Kentucky, she carries with her the lessons learned along the way.

For the full conversation and more insights from Lena, tune in to the episode.

YouTube Description
The rejection that feels like the end can be the redirection that lands you exactly where you belong. Libbie Tacia opens up about her college dance journey, the heartbreak of getting cut from Kentucky, and how that setback led her to Michigan State University’s Elite Competitive Dance Team.
Libbie is a freshman at Michigan State and a member of MSU Elite Competitive Dance Team. Chrissy, who coached and mentored her through the recruitment process, helps frame the reality behind dance team auditions—the limited spots, the pressure, and the emotional ups and downs that so many dancers never talk about out loud.
Hear how Libbie went from not knowing she wanted to dance in college until late in high school to building a plan, narrowing down nearly 30 schools, and preparing for competitive auditions. She shares what it was like to face disappointment in the final round, why she kept going, and how leaning on her support system helped her move forward.
They discuss why rejection can be redirection, how to handle disappointment without getting stuck, and why being proactive in recruitment matters. Libbie also shares what it’s like to start college as a freshman while balancing team practices, campus life, and the community that dance can create.
If you’re a dancer navigating recruitment, a parent supporting your athlete, or anyone facing a door that just closed, this conversation is a reminder that the right path doesn’t always arrive on schedule. Your dream team may still be ahead of you.