Dance Student Spotlight: Paula Cirule

My name is Paula Cirule, 13, and I live in Miami FL. I dance at Miami Dance Collective.

@paula_dancer6

Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.

I started dancing because one of my friends had been doing it twice a week so I thought I would try it out! I fell in love with ballet immediately and then explored other styles as I went along. I am now dancing at Miami Dance Collective and competing with them!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?

No!! Things have not always been easy. There have been many times where I wanted to quit. But my mom has never let me because she knows I will regret it! I’m so so thankful she has kept me going no matter what.

What personal limitations if any did you go through in your young career?

I started at a very late age, compared to the people I was dancing with. I started when I was almost 8 years old when everyone around me had been dancing since they were 3! It wasn’t easy, but soon enough, I caught up and got on level with everyone.

How do you conquer negative talk?

When I receive negative talk, I like to ignore it and not let it get to me.

What is your favorite quote?

"Beyond the sun a person's life holds, dancing or not, no one knows." - Paula Cirule

So, what’s next? Any big plans?

I’m not sure what will come next in my career, but I’m ready to conquer anything!