Maria Borrowman

Maria dancing on pointe
Hometown: Lossiemouth, Scotland
BA in Applied Dance Studies, and BS Communication Studies
2024

How did you first get interested in dance?
I took my first dance class at 2 1/2 years old, and I have never stopped dancing since! I have danced at multiple dance schools in Scotland, and then at Wayne Ballet at Center for Dance Arts in Wayne, PA. When I applied to UNC Charlotte, I had decided to do a minor in Dance. After Covid started, I could only do a few dance classes on zoom, and I realized how much I needed dance in my life. I changed to a Dance Major a few weeks before my Freshman year, and I think it was the best decision I could have made! Dancing at UNC Charlotte has brought me so much joy, friendships and amazing experiences that I could never have imagined.

What kind of career do you hope to have?
Right now I’m not sure what I want to do in the future, but I know I want to teach dance, maybe perform and travel the world! I would really love to perform the concert dance styles I have the most training in but am open to any opportunities whether it is in concert or commercial dance. 

What is your favorite thing about the dance department?
I love the community within the dance department, consisting of the most amazing and supportive faculty and students. I love that it is generally an uncompetitive environment where we all help and support each other, and appreciate everyone’s individual talents! 

Can you talk about your experience as a scholarship student? 
I have the Belk Performing Arts Scholarship, which has helped me a lot financially during my time in college.

When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
I love to read, ski, ice skate, travel and I‘ve recently been trying to learn how to crochet!