After 14 years it is hard to believe that I will be leaving the place I love most. I have made so many friends and memories that I will never forget. I started dancing at Cpac when I was 4 years old and have loved it ever since. One day, I remember coming home from school and my mom telling me about auditions for the competition team. She asked me if I wanted to try out and I excitedly said “yes”! I was very nervous but at the same time excited to start a new journey. So, when I was 7 I joined the competition team. Little did I know that that decision would be the best decision of my life. This team is family, every dancer and teacher included. My life would not be the same without any of them. Each teacher has taught me so much. Not just about dance but also persistence and dedication. My thanks will never be enough for what each one of you has provided me, but I will try. First, I want to thank Candance. Learning how to dance at 4 years old is hard but you made it fun and were one of the reasons I stuck with it. Second, I want to thank Zack. When I first joined the competition team I had never taken an actual ballet class before. I struggled excessively, and you pushed me to keep going even though I was a bit of a “brat”. Sorry Zach. Kristen. When I first moved into level 2 I was terrified of you, but you are one of the best teachers I have ever had. Even though you were tough, and even a little mean sometimes it helped me to learn discipline and grow as a dancer. You helped me find a love for a style that I never thought I would actually like. You helped me to “dance”, and I can’t thank you enough. Jordan. Thank you for sculpting me into the dancer I am today, and for teaching me how to be vulnerable and embrace new choreography. You have helped me to find my authenticity and be comfortable doing what I love. Tessa. From teaching me my first solo to helping me prepare for college I have gained so much from you. Having you as a teacher for 2 different teams has helped me to expand my dance knowledge and abilities in so many ways. My dance career would not be the same without you. Thank you. Jen Lee. Where do I even begin? You are my second mom. Your dedication and love for dance have influenced me tremendously and have pushed me to keep going. Thank you for seeing potential in me and believing that I could do what I am doing now. I would not be here without you and your support, so from the bottom of my heart, thank you Jen. I love you. Nancy. I have no words. Without this incredible facility and your support, none of this would have happened. The love you have for each one of us dancers is extremely appreciated. Thank you. To the costume shop. Every single costume you have made for me is incredible. You are so talented and the costumes always make the dance come to life. Thank you for making stories come true. Lastly, I want to thank my teammates. To the huddles backstage and the chant before showcase, your energy and love are what makes this team a team. Our bond will never be broken and I love every single one of you. CHAKA forever!