Sitting in the College Counseling office’s waiting room with my son, I felt anxious, tense, and concerned about what to expect. I was transported back in time, remembering my own horrific experience. I pictured myself walking into my counselor’s office to discuss my plans after high school. Having had no interaction with him until that day, I wasn’t sure what to expect. 

To me, my path was clear, I would attend a top conservatory and major in dance. My counselor let me know in a dismissing tone that my goal was a fantasy and not a real career, and that I needed to pick a more practical direction. I felt like a widget on a conveyor belt, heading to the same place at the same time with the rest of my class- some college. Just then, reality hit as I felt Justin’s hand on my shoulder whispering, “Mom, it’s time, Ms. Dean is ready for us.” My memories continued to haunt me, and I certainly hoped that my son’s experience would not be the same.

My heart was full as I registered at Boston Conservatory of Music. I made the cut through years of preparation, a rigorous audition, and an interview, and I began a journey that would clearly move me toward what I thought was my ultimate goal- to perform with a top ballet company. I was polished, skilled, and happy dancing and performing with seniors at BCM during my freshman year. I had never worked so hard in my life. 

Attending a conservatory in a BFA program was not for the faint of heart or mind. It was a grueling schedule, longer than that of any BA or BS program. Liberal Arts courses were core, but in a BFA program, the focus was on one’s craft. Would this be enough for me since I had other strong academic interests?

Clearly, there was more about my career choice that I had not considered- and then it happened: I was stopped in my tracks after becoming seriously injured during a partnering class. Once again, I was entering a world of the unknown without an expert to guide me. 

 Ms. Dean, a sassy yet professional southern woman, welcomed us into her office, introducing herself to Justin and me with a distinct cultural twang, which was warm and engaging. All three of us were very prepared for the meeting. Every question asked and every thoughtful answer given was formulated to build up the student, support his unique talents and needs and those of his family. From day one, it was a well-planned recipe for success. Throughout the process, I thought back about my own inadequate experience. If I had had this type of support from the beginning, my direction might have been very different. 

I was immediately drawn in by the value and purpose of personalized college and career planning. As we worked closely with the college counselors at the Wes School, I became more excited and inspired by the profession and began exploring ways to reach my goal. Ms. Dean became my biggest ally and connected me to great learning experiences and networking opportunities that prepared me to enter this new field.

My confidence soared as I worked to create my path to gain valuable experiences working with students and staff in a large public school. I became very invested in the process of providing early access for all students to college and career education. My experiences, practice, academic preparation, and mentorship from Ms. Dean provided me with a strong foundation to succeed. Finally, I found my beyond the applause career.

Soon, Beyond the Applause’s birth became clear. It was intuitive and natural for me to use my expertise and artistic background to build a business that would support creative and focused minds through an education and career discovery process. Personal experiences propelled me to find my own new directions for success and happiness.