b'30springtideresearch.orgOften, I find school to be a place where I am expected to hold it together and simply put on a front that I am doing okay, just so that I can keep working. It often feels as though if I share emotions such as being overwhelmed, stressed, or upset, my progress at school will suffer, so I hold it in by putting on a smile. I find purpose in my ballet studio, where I am encouraged to keep striving for my goals by the instructors and fellow dancers who support me. The studio is located downtown, and I feel inspired by the people working and going about their own busy lives, and I know that I can find peace and purpose whenever I step into this studio.Lily, 16'