Taleena Gonneea
Intended Majors: Dance–Performance and Kinesiology
Hometown: Falmouth, Massachusetts

What were you involved in during high school, and what did those experiences mean to you?
In high school, I was the leader of the Women in Science and Engineering club, and I was part of the Students for Social Justice club, Prom Committee, and participated in science fairs. Outside of school, I danced seven days a week! Throughout these experiences, I found out that even though I am involved in incredibly time-consuming and intense activities, their differences allow me to take meaningful but active breaks from the other activities. All these experiences taught me not only how to use my time, but also how to live a life that is fulfilling.

How did you know Butler was the right place for you?
From the get-go Butler was one of my top choices, especially because dance students can also pursue non-arts degrees while still receiving intense training. What really sealed the deal for me was witnessing Butler Ballet perform Midwinter Dances. The movement quality, professionalism, and intense attack that the students gave to each piece were comparable to an elite ballet company. That performance was the cherry on top in terms of my decision, and it was during that time that I could really see myself thriving at Butler while having exposure to a variety of styles and choreographers.

What are you most excited to get involved with on campus?
One thing that I am very excited to be a part of is the Morton-Finney Scholars Program. I am really looking forward to being involved in a program that aligns with my interests and connects me with so many people outside of my major.

What are you looking forward to most while being a student at Butler?
I have never lived near a city, so I am so excited to have access to Indianapolis without having to travel too far.

How do you think Butler will help you grow as a person or student?
Butler has so many financial, emotional, and physical resources for students. I am looking forward to using these resources to better myself and to become the healthiest version of myself I can be.

What are you planning to study, and what sparked your interest in that area?
I’m planning on studying Dance–Performance and Kinesiology. I’ve been dancing since I was three, and last year I decided that I definitely want to pursue a dance career. As a dancer, I have had a plethora of injuries that range in severity. When I was 16, I experienced two patella dislocations that resulted in several fractures, ligament tears, and tendon ruptures. I went through a lengthy recovery process, and for the past two years I’ve been working with an athletic trainer every week. Science fascinates me, and kinesiology blends my fascination with science and my passion for dance.

What advice would you give to other students starting their college search?
Focusing on acceptance rates will get you nowhere. Colleges cannot be defined by a single metric. Reviews and data don’t fully represent what universities have to offer. Try to talk to real students, and do more digging than a simple Google search.