Finding that certain inner passion to excel in is anything but an easy task.  Whether it is in academics, sports, art or music, it is something that can drive the soul. 

A true passion brings its holder a sense of satisfaction, accomplishment and bliss.  For Lauren List, that one passion is dance.

Like many dancers, List began her dance career at a young age.  As early as age 5, she was taking dance and gymnastics lessons. By age 11 she was entering dance competitions which required practicing every day for several hours at a time. 

“Starting out, I loved dance because it was challenging, very physical and I loved the prospect of putting on pretty costumes,” List said. 

But as she grew older, dancing became a much more significant and even therapeutic part of her life. 

“I eventually came to love dance for the opportunity to perform, the artistic quality and the ability to release emotions.  Whether I am sad, angry or elated, my dancing is always an adequate reflection of my mood,” she said. 

“Dance is not just a hobby or something fun to do. It is a lifestyle. Dance literally drives my life.” Lauren List, UT Dancer

Anyone who knows Lauren will attest that her charming nature and illuminating personality are on display wherever she goes.  When she speaks about dance, it is clear that a large portion of this elation can be attributed to her dancing.

Everyone has a talent that they enjoy, for one reason or another.  Generally this hobby acts as an emotional outlet, an opportunity for self-expression.  Often these hobbies become so customary that they provide a feeling of comfort in any situation.  When List left home for college, she admits that joining the UT Dance Company eased the tension of such a big change.

“The transition to college was made easier because when everything else was changing, I was still going to the studio every day for several hours, and the consistency provided much needed stability,” she explains.

List had difficulty in selecting her biggest dance idol.  After listing several dance instructors who have inspired her throughout her dance career, she finally narrowed it down to one.

“Bonnie Nemeth is my biggest inspiration, because despite the obstacles she has had to overcome, she is living the dream as one of the most successful artistic directors at Tennessee,” List said. 

List has set her sights on becoming an idol for girls herself one day.

As an enterprise management major at UT, List plans to open her own dance studio, preferably in the Nashville or Franklin area.  She hopes to create the same lifelong memories she cherishes so deeply in other kids who share her passion.

 “Dance is not just a hobby or something fun to do. It is a lifestyle. Dance literally drives my life,” she said.