Auditioning for a college dance team is an exciting opportunity that goes beyond just showcasing your technical skills and performance ability. As many college coaches will tell you, one of the most valuable qualities they seek in dancers is strong communication. From the way you present yourself in person, how you utilize social media platforms, to how you interact with teammates and respond to feedback, communication is key. Here is a list of Do’s and Don’ts on how mastering communication can help you stand out and make a lasting impression during your audition process.
DO
- Contact the coach. Send a short and professional email (or DM depending on the program’s preference) introducing yourself, expressing your interest in the program, and what about the team appeals to your college dance team goals. You can include a highlight reel, or link to a YouTube account highlight reel if you have one.
- Attend the team’s camps and clinics. That is the best way to demonstrate your interest and have a coach get to know within their team space and culture. You’ll also know after that experience if that team is a good fit for you!
- Stay in contact. Demonstrate ability to apply any corrections provided at a clinic or camp with follow up video. Let the coach know you are working to earn a spot on that team!
- Use your social media platform. Similar to a highlight reel, post video from class or performances showcasing what you’re working on. No coach is looking for perfection, we’re looking for passion, potential, and the desire to grow!
- Show your other interests and abilities. Are you involved in clubs or organizations other than dance? Passionate about service to a specific population? Active in your community? Hold leadership positions? Use your social media platforms to showcase the other interests and skills you have that would make you a great ambassador of that college, and student-leader.
DON’T
- Don’t let your parents and teachers be the main source of communication. Coaches want to build working relationship with YOU, their prospective athlete. It’s always good to have an adult proof your email, but it should come from you.
- Don’t send lengthy emails listing your entire dance resume and awards. While we appreciate how hard you have worked to earn those accolades, trust us that we’ll be able to see skill and ability through your dancing.
- Don’t isolate yourself. Make friends with both participants and current athletes when at clinics. Demonstrating your ability to work with others is important. And you never know who may be your future teammate!
- Don’t skip the details. Chances have it, there’s an information page, or description about the program and/or tryouts that the team has posted and is available to you. Before you ask questions, do your research.
- Don’t limit your school options. If you want to dance in college, there is a team for you. The best fit for you may not be on the top of your list. That’s okay. Keeping your mind and heart open may find you exactly where you are meant to be 💫
Coach GK,
GCU Dance Team Head Coach