As a dancer, I have learned that the most crucial part of this learning process is to have a teacher who is supportive and encouraging, as well as dedicated to guiding their students. Madame has always found a way to help her students, whether it is to make them a better dancer or a better person. Though all my teachers have been incredibly supportive of me these past few years, Madame has continuously shown her support and given me many incredible opportunities to become the best I can be.

Before I even joined ABA, Madame made me feel so welcomed and at home. Her compassion and thoughtfulness towards each student drew me to her studio and this family. Though I didn't start in her class, I gradually leveled up as she saw my potential. Since the beginning, she gave me corrections during class and rehearsal that I had never thought or heard of before, and those have significantly changed my perspective on each dance move. Madame considers what's most beneficial for her students every day, as she is very detail-oriented in her classes. She regularly finds something to correct for every student in each lesson, no matter how small the detail is. Even if we have an extended technique class on some days, I know that I received something valuable out of it.

During competition season, Madame will make sure that each dancer is as confident as they can be. Unlike some teachers, Madame will always go with her students to competitions, as long as she is aware. Having been at ABA for three years now, my competition experiences have been enjoyable. Whenever I go to a competition, I always feel very positive and excited to go on stage. Yes, it can be nerve-wracking, but after all the rehearsals throughout the year and the corrections given to me for each variation by Madame, I know that I gained all the knowledge I needed to do well on stage. Besides that, Madame always finds a way to calm me down before I go backstage. As a pretty competitive person, I can let that get in the way of having a good time on stage, but after coming to ABA under Madame's training, she has helped me find ways to relieve the tension and make the experience fun.

Besides caring for her students, she always finds time to care for her studio and her costumes. For example, after a performance or competition, whether it is late at night or during the day, Madame will take time to spray/clean the tutus to be pleasant for whoever wears them next. I appreciate all the effort she puts into these little things, and I know everyone she instructs does too.

Furthermore, Madame constantly makes sure that everyone is well, keeping the environment safe at the studio. She ensures that everyone is friendly to each other to create the best atmosphere around us. Madame will also listen to any suggestions made by her students. She is so understanding and will assist you in any situation. If you are injured or not feeling well, she will quickly find a solution to help you feel stronger.

In addition to everything above, Madame gives her students so many unique opportunities, like arranging photoshoots, masterclasses, and even field trips to watch different ballets. Each experience is so special, and she makes each one unforgettable. For instance, Madame gives everyone corrections for each pose at every photo shoot to produce the best quality in the photos. She also provides us with the best training, teachers, and guest teachers possible. Moreover, she informs us of the information we might need in the future, in whatever direction we go. I've made so much progress as a student of Madame Akhmedova in the past few years. Without her guidance and support, I wouldn't be where I am today.


Publish Date: 08/08/2021