Ryan Norman
Senior
Dance Pedagogy
Chicago, Illinois

What’s the best thing about being a Bulldog?
The best thing about being a Bulldog is the strong network I have been able to join here. Butler students have so much pride that does not end after graduation. The love we all share for the school is immense, and our alums do not hesitate to help us in any way they can.

What’s your favorite student activity?
My favorite student activity is Block Party, which happens at the beginning of the fall semester. I love returning to campus after a long summer break and seeing all my friends. It’s a great opportunity to see what you can be involved in on campus outside of classes and see the strong communities each club/organization has.

What’s your favorite spot on campus?
My favorite spot on campus is the Lilly Hall “airport lobby” lounge on the 3rd floor outside the dance studios. Whether it is warming up for classes, chatting with friends over lunch, getting some homework done, or taking in the gorgeous view of the wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, I spend about 60 percent of my time in this space. 

Which faculty member has inspired you the most and why?
Professor of Dance David Ingram has inspired me the most. He has guided me as my academic advisor, teacher, and as an artist. He is an alumnus of Butler’s dance department, which makes his success in the field seem so much more attainable, knowing that he has been in my shoes. He has challenged me to push beyond my limits to improve myself and the dance world around me.

What do you want to do upon graduation?
Upon graduation, I want to pursue a career as a dancer full-time and join a professional dance company. I would utilize the Pedagogy aspect of my degree to teach dance to young students—primarily students of color and those from a low socioeconomic background. I want to share the art of dance with students who may have not yet been exposed to it and be a guiding hand in their improvement and progress.