I’m "Old," but That’s Okay

By Paris Becker

The University of Minnesota’s Ballroom Dance Club came into my life at a time when I really needed it most. I am forever grateful for the people I have danced alongside. The unconditional support and the love of expression that is shared between us all finally gave me a space where I felt like I belonged and was accepted as myself. I want to say that my only regret in my college career was not joining the club sooner than my senior year, but maturity has taught me that my journey to the club was just as important, for it all has shaped me into the person I am proud to be today.

My decision to come back to the University of Minnesota’s Ballroom Competition Team as a graduate and no longer a student did not come easy. Luckily, recent graduates like me are afforded a "transitional period" where we can participate in the club and team for one semester as we explore our ballroom options in what I like to call "The Real World." But as I returned to campus to participate, I was forced to come face-to-face with this one unforgiving fact about myself: I am now "old."

Being "old" on a college campus is isolating. I did not notice it when I actually was a student, but the first thing everyone asks on a college campus is: "What year are you in school and what are you studying?" Although I very much enjoy the challenge to say, "I graduated," in the most creative ways possible ("I study economics through real-life situations, with a minor in accounting."), the typical follow up question is along the lines of "If you graduated, then why are you here?"

Here we go: why am I still here? I am still new to ballroom---many of the other alums who are in transition have done this way longer than I have and are far above my skill level. If I can only contribute to the team for one more semester, how can I justify taking up a spot over an incoming freshman of my same skill level?

See how my decision to come back was not easy? Fortunately, the final decision was not mine to make. And I am very grateful to be returning for another semester with the team that I adore so much.

My contributions will not be traditional, but then again my journey in ballroom this far has not been traditional either. My desire to learn is still very much alive; I see myself working every last drop out of this next semester and cherishing every moment. I hope that through my hard work and dedication to the sport and to my partnerships, I can inspire the next generation of dancers.

This is my sweet second chance, and I would be a fool not to recognize that and make the most of it.