Student Dances her way to an academic trifecta – and to Oxford

Nika Shlomi, an Honors student in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences studying biology, psychology and dance. Recently returned from a UGA Oxford study abroad experience, she shares details about her international experience as well as how her minor in dance compliments her majors and aligns with her pre-med aspirations in this interview.

What first attracted you to the UGA Department of Dance? 

My upbringing in the dance world was heavily centered around ballet. When I learned about the UGA Department of Dance’s expert ballet faculty and classical repertoire, I knew that this was a school I wanted to explore. My older sister pursued the UGA Dance minor and her experiences in the department deepened my interest in the program. 

What is your program of study at UGA: 

I am an honors pre-med student, double majoring in biology and psychology and minoring in dance.  

Did you know when you accepted your admission to UGA that you would have the opportunity to choose a double major, or an additional field of study with Dance as a Minor or Major, or to study abroad?  

After committing to UGA, I immediately planned to pursue a dance minor alongside my biology major and pre-med requirements. As time went on, I realized that my interest for psychology could seamlessly blend with my biology major, so I added the second degree with a neuroscience emphasis. With this wild combination of degrees, I am currently able to fulfill my pre-med requirements, expand my knowledge in the realm of science and partake in the dance department’s thrilling seasonal performances. 

As for studying abroad, it didn’t seem possible given the pre-med track. I always wanted to travel, but figured I would have to wait until my undergraduate studies were finished. Dr. Fusillo, one of my primary ballet instructors within the Department of Dance, helped guide the way to England where she introduced me to the incredible opportunities offered by the UGA at Oxford program. As I explored the details, I discovered that the UGA Summer Program at Oxford was the perfect choice for me. This program let me to participate in study abroad, while staying on track with my four-year plan.  

Tell us about your UGA at Oxford experience 

I recently attended the 2024 UGA at Oxford Summer Program, and it was an incredible educational and experiential opportunity. Dr. Fusillo, one of my ballet professors, inspired me to apply to this program, and it was one of the best decisions I have made in my time at UGA. While I did not receive ballet training abroad, spending the summer in Europe exposed me to countless artistic experiences. I enjoyed plays and tours of performing arts venues that served to deepen my love for the art form. The program also offered wonderful courses taught by Oxford professors. In fact, at Oxford I studied psychopathology and biomedical ethics. These two courses greatly contributed to my understanding of the medical field and neurodevelopment.  

Describe how your study of dance is important to, or complements, your full program of study at UGA?

A minor in dance and majors in biology and psychology will prepare me to become a physician. The blend of my scientific and artistic studies will enable me to approach the medical field with creativity and with a greater understanding of the mindset, work ethic, and healing processes of young athletes.

A truly unique aspect of my dance minor alongside my other majors is how it complements my daily schedule. Before UGA, I was used to having a full school day and then going to dance at night. Now, dance is a part of my day and this integration into my schedule is far more beneficial than I initially realized. In the courses pertaining to my science degrees, I am typically sitting in a lecture hall for at least an hour, sandwiched between other students and often not moving for the entire period. When I can dance in the middle of a day like this, it provides not only mental but also physical relief. Many dancers constantly feel a need to keep moving, and my dance minor mixes perfectly with my science majors as a form of physical exercise and de-stressing.

When I made the decision to pursue a career in medicine, many factors came to mind while determining what undergraduate school, degree and overall experience would suit me best. I had grown up in the world of ballet. Although the career I wanted to pursue was drastically different from this passion of mine, I knew that I needed to maintain my dance training wherever I attended. I am extremely grateful for the UGA Dance Department for facilitating my deep-rooted passion alongside my medical career goals, and for continuing to push me towards artistic and technical improvement every day.

If you were speaking with a prospective student, how would you describe your experience in the UGA Department of Dance, and your ability to expand your studies at UGA?

What I appreciate about the UGA Department of Dance is its flexible course offerings, the inclusivity of its performances, and the numerous opportunities it provides to students.

With the dance minor, I am offered a wide range of class options, requiring me to complete a specific number of hours in each category. This structure is really helpful in balancing my pre-med courses with my dance studies. In addition to dance classes, performances are a highlight of my time at UGA. I have always been passionate about the performance aspect of dance and the UGA Department of Dance facilitates this wonderfully by holding department-wide auditions for both student and faculty-led performances each semester. Finally, the dance department also does a great job of connecting students with renowned artists through master classes, guest pieces, and study away programs. These opportunities not only provide valuable professional connections for dancers, but they also inspire and influence dancers as they navigate their career paths. Overall, my time with the UGA Department of Dance has been amazing, and I look forward to continuing my journey with this incredible program.

Image: Nika Shlomi performs in Oxford's Keble College Chapel in Oxford, England.