Sidney Hampton

How old were you when you first came to NSDA? I was 17 yrs old when I started at NSDA.

How did you hear about the dance school? I actually just started dancing and one of the teachers, Ms. Tammy Hurt, saw me and brought me to Ms. Welters to see if she would train me.

How long did you stay? ( How many years) Technically I stayed a little over a year, but I really never left. I go back as much as I can to get that 1-on-1 training that only Ms. Welters can give me.

Why did you leave? I left when I got accepted into the University of the Arts, thanks to Ms. Welters believing in me and seeing my potential. I thank her for not giving up on me. I still come back every year to do the spring concert in June.

What resonates with you most when thinking about NSDA? What resonates most is that my life would not be what it is today if it wasn't for her. I am so thankful beyond words at all she has done for me, and continues to do for. It almost brings me to tears every time I think about it. I can't thank her enough. If it wasn't for her I would not be prospering as much as I am. She has made me feel like a Prince among many, and I find myself asking all the time, "Where would I be if it wasn't for her?" I thank you from the bottom of my heart for believing in me.

What have you achieved from attending the school? Being at NSDA has helped with my self-esteem and confidence in myself. It has also grounded and humbled me. I definitely found a love, respect, and appreciation for the arts as well as the people I am around. What i learned and achieved from attending NSDA I can take into my everyday life. After my time at NSDA I have been awarded a Presidential Scholarship to attend University of the arts, full scholarship to attend The Rock School for Dance Education, Full Scholarship to Alonzo Lines Contemporary , as well as a Full scholarship to Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. None of this would have been possible without Ms. Welters and the NSDA family in my life.

What is your favorite dance/performance? My favorite performance was the concert at the Carter Barron summer of 2011. That was one of the most exciting and invigorating performance. To be able to perform on that stage and amongst many other talented dancers was very exhilarating. All though every year I come back to perform I enjoy it more and more.

What would you say to young dancers who are now at NSDA ? I would say look at the people who came before you, and see where they are now. We all believe in you. You all have so much talent that can be shared with the world. Work hard, dedicate yourself, show ambition and so many doors can open for your future. I believe in you and Ms. Welters believes in you as well. You have limitless possibilities in this world, so go for it!

What would you tell Ms. Welters ? I would tell Ms. Welters that I love her so much that words can't even express. You have been a mom away from home to me. You took a chance with me, saw potential in me, taught me many of things, and you opened my eyes to a better future. You are truly amazing and one of the most loving and cherishing people in this world. I thank you again and again and again. I will always be here for you with whatever you need.

What are you doing now and did taking dance lessons assist you in any way ? I recently just finished a 5 week program with Lines Ballet in , California. My next adventure will be in PIttsburgh at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. Taking dance lessons has assisted in the growth and development of my mind and body. It has also opened my world up to more than just dance. It has given me an appreciation for life and other art forms. i see more beauty in the world and in others now after starting dance. I feel I have become a better person, and a more giving person. Dance is more than just dance. It is life.