Bronwyn Smith ’23
Majors: Dance, Arts Administration
Founder & Director of Studio Bee LLC, Deos Contemporary Ballet Dancer, Funky Buddha Yoga Marketing Assistant

How did Butler prepare you for your career?
Going to Butler to this day is the best decision I have made for myself, not only career-wise but also for my personal development. Of course, I received top-notch instruction and performance experience in the Dance-Arts Administration program, but what brought my college experience to the next level was the community of the most caring and passionate professors and peers. This community saw strength and skills in me that I previously hadn’t. They pushed me out of my comfort zone and led me to discover who I truly wanted to be and what impact I wanted to have on my chosen industry.

By the time I graduated, I was not only prepared with the skills to lead a successful career but also with the knowledge that I had a team of people cheering me on and lending a helping hand at any bump in the road. Plus, I knew my worth and how to take the steps to achieve my goals. Now, I have found a place at Deos Contemporary Ballet where I am cared for, valued, challenged, and surrounded by that same level of community I found at Butler.

What skills or knowledge gained at Butler have been most useful in your career?
The skills that I gained at Butler that have been most useful in my career thus far are time management, improvisation, public speaking, performance, professionalism, and writing, to name a few. As someone who balances dancing professionally, a second job, and now starting/running my own business and working with clients, I must plan my time effectively to maintain a balanced lifestyle while getting everything I need done. Being a Dance-Arts Admin major at Butler was the perfect preparation for this because I was balancing rehearsals, assignments, classes, performances, and personal time from the get-go. By senior year, I was well-versed in all things scheduling. I graduated as a senior who was a spokesperson for my class, was confident leading groups and meeting with professors, and even spoke at the JCA 2023 commencement. These experiences give me the confidence to carry myself professionally and communicate well in many career settings. 

What is the most important thing you learned at Butler?
The most important thing I learned at Butler was my worth and connections to other Bulldogs. I knew that kindness would always serve me. Plus, I learned the value of working hard and giving myself a break when needed. My classmates and friends in my class inspire me with their successes and push me towards mine.

Who influenced you the most while you were a student?
In addition to my incredible group of friends who showed me nothing but kindness and inspiration from my first day on campus until now, Professor Reid, from the start of my first year, showed a level of trust that made me feel so empowered. He leads daily, no matter how stressful, with kindness, care, humor, and focus. Having someone like that believing in you from the beginning is influential beyond words.

I am also inspired by my mentor and fellow Butler graduate Lindsay Moncrieff, who believed in me before I did as my ballet teacher. Lindsay continues to show me so much generosity and care every day. Working with her for my home studio, Acton School of Ballet, is a joy and privilege. I am so grateful to have Lindsay in my life.

What advice do you have for students interested in pursuing a career in this field?
This career can be highly challenging, but I encourage students to go for what they love. Remember what aspects of this field are most intriguing and essential to you as you look towards your future to keep that love alive. Setting your intentions, knowing your worth, communicating your needs, and leaning on your support systems, all paired with hard work and perseverance, will pay off. Ensure you stay connected with your peers, alums, and professors, and don’t be afraid to contact them. I was informed of my current job opening by fellow Butler alums simply through an Instagram message. Put yourself out there!