My name is Zoe Michaela Papa and I am 18 years old. I am currently enrolled in The Ohio State University perusing a BFA in dance. I am from Ocean Township, New Jersey where I have lived all my life. Dance became serious for me at the age of 14. I had registered at a new studio which had a performance company. The company I was a part of was under the instruction of Jolene Baldini and put on numerous shows including our annual Nutcracker. I have also been trained for the Royal Academy of Dance examinations. Notable teachers I had included Jolene Baldini, Pamela Critelli, Richard Glover, and Michael Susten. Throughout high school, I was a very active member of my high school's dance team, which was under the instruction of Lynette Werthwein. I was awarded the roll of captain my senior year. My dance team held two showcases, one at the end of each semester. These performances encouraged the dance community in my high school to audition and perform in front of students, faculty, and families. I was also a part of my high school’s drama club. My intention for joining the club was not to only broaden my horizons, but also to create a bridge from dance to theater for the younger classes. I had also attended Complexions Contemporary Ballet Summer Intensive for three summers. Here I studied for three weeks at a time under the instruction of Desmond Richardson and Dwight Rhoden. I chose to continue my dance training by enrolling as a dance major. I hope to not only continue my dance training, but also grow as an artist in the process.