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What does it really take to go from an HBCU dancer to a professional performer?

In this episode of the Major Business Podcast, I sit down with Shatangela Jackson, also known as 'Tan'...former 14 Karat Gold Dancer & Captain at Bethune-Cookman University, former Miami Heat and Florida Panthers dancer, educator, and current Dance Director at Florida Memorial University.

Tangela shares how she "got it out the mud", developing her talent through hard work, discipline, and relentless training before her college coach recognized her potential and helped open doors to greater opportunities. She encourages dancers to be more intentional in dance & in life!

We discuss:
• Why HBCU dance auditions are more competitive than ever
• The progression of collegiate dance over the years
• How she trains dancers to be prepared for college and professional opportunities
• The leadership standards she cultivates within her program
• Her journey from HBCU dancer to professional performer
• The technical and performance training required to succeed at the next level
• Why education matters and how earning terminal degrees created career security while pursuing her passion
• Why performance quality matters just as much as technique

This episode is for dancers, coaches, and parents who want to understand what it truly takes to build a sustainable future in dance.

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