Gabrielle Grossman
Major: Dance—Arts Administration
Hometown: Sylvania, Ohio
What made you decide on Butler during your college search?
Butler’s nationally ranked Dance program was the reason I came to Butler.
What made you interested in studying your major?
My desire to pursue a career with a professional ballet company after graduating was the driving factor in deciding my major. Additionally, I wanted to broaden my knowledge in Arts Administration so I can pursue a career in arts administration or marketing with an arts organization after I retire from the stage.
What is your favorite part of being a student in the Jordan College of the Arts (JCA)?
The professors we have at JCA are truly unlike any other program! I also love all of the performance opportunities we are given within Butler Ballet.
Is there a particular faculty or staff member who has inspired you?
Professor Ruffo has inspired me and pushed me as a dancer so much over the past two and a half years. She is truly so passionate about what she does and cares about all her students. I would not be the dancer I am today without her guidance and expertise.
What are some examples of internships or experiential learning opportunities you’ve participated in?
For my Arts Administration degree, we are required to do an internship during the summer after our third year. Since I am currently a third-year, I am in the process of applying to internships right now, but I am doing it more so for the professional experience I know I will gain through this opportunity.
In what ways do you think JCA is preparing you for life after graduation?
JCA, and specifically my time in Butler Ballet, is preparing me for life in a professional ballet company. We are held to the standards of those of the professional ballet world and are given opportunities to work with former and current professional dancers and choreographers.
Additionally, the variety of classes offered and performance repertoire gives Butler Ballet dancers the ability to become a more well-rounded dancer during their time here.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of studying in JCA?
I would say to go for it! Even if you are unsure, it doesn’t hurt to come to one of our audition days. I truly fell in love with the campus, the Butler Ballet atmosphere, and Lilly Hall when I came here during my Butler Ballet audition. If I was given the opportunity to go back to my senior year during the college search process, I am positive that I would choose Butler again!