Graduation Spotlight: Bailey Zettler, Dance
Bailey Zettler has been dancing since she was 3. In middle school, she choreographed her own dance routines. And she hasn’t looked back since.
The Dallas native is set to graduate May 8 with a Bachelor of Science degree in University Studies Dance Concentration.
“By the time I came to college at Texas A&M, I was unsure of what to major in,” Zettler said. “I started out an as education major, but after being a part of one dance composition showcase, I knew I wanted to be in the Dance Science program.”
Zettler will also be honored as a distinguished student in the College of Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts’ Graduation Recognition Ceremony on Wednesday.
“I am so honored to have been chosen for this award,” she said. “I am so grateful for everything I have experienced and accomplished during my time here. I have loved every minute of it and will hold the friendships I’ve made forever.”
Zettler said her proudest achievement was choreographing a piece titled “Obstinate” during her junior year. The piece was selected to be performed at the American College Dance Association’s National College Dance Festival on May 2. She said the theme of the dance was based on the performers repeating a motion with their arms.
“I am proud of this project not only for how far it has gone, but for the work that my dancers put into it,” she said. “It was a challenge to create an entire piece out of three movements, but I learned so much. I am so thankful to my cast for diving in and trusting the process.”
Zettler said two professors played a significant role in her dance journey: lecturers Jessica Boone and Abby Williams Chin. Zettler said she was grateful for their mentorship.
“These two professors have inspired, guided, challenged, supported and encouraged me over the last two years,” Zettler said. “They taught me to take up space, own my strength, be intentional and to stay present. They helped me believe in myself and grow as a dancer.”
Following graduation, Zettler plans to continue choreographing with her twin sister, Lenzy Zettler, who is also a dance student. The sisters created a business, ZTwins Choreo, where they choreograph for dance groups. In the future, Zettler said she hopes to travel and dance professionally.
“I also have dreams of owning a studio, teaching at a dance convention, writing a book and becoming a professor,” she said.
Photo by Lenzy Zettler.
