In the world of dance perseverance, passion, and dedication often pave the way to success. For seniors, Erial Lloyd and Isabella Carrillo, two talented Bailadoras, their commitment to their craft has not only earned them admiration from their peers but also secured them a scholarship that will undoubtedly shape their future.

Lloyd, reflecting on her journey, expressed her initial disbelief at being selected for the scholarship. 

“It felt unreal to hear my name; I was like what?” Lloyd said. “It just was crazy because you think about how many girls had signed up for the same opportunity, and I personally did not think I would be chosen for this. It felt super rewarding and refreshing to receive it.”

Carrillo shared her unique journey in her scholarship essay. Growing up in a large, athletic family, she always felt like the odd one out. Her father, attempting to integrate her into sports, soon realized dance was her true calling. 

“He ended up putting me in dance and that is when I finally had the same feeling my siblings had with their sports,” Carrillo said. “It just felt like a family and that’s what I explained in my essay.”

Langham Creek had not seen a scholarship recipient for an extended period, making the victories of Carrillo and Lloyd all the more significant.

 “No one at Langham has received the scholarship in so long, and knowing that Erial and I were chosen, I was really excited,” Carrillo said.

Mrs. Love, their dance instructor and mentor, expressed immense pride in both Lloyd and Carrillo. As four-year members of the dance team, their dedication and talent truly deserved the recognition.

 “It felt really good, and it had been frustrating for a while because our last candidate that was selected was in 2020, I believe,” Mrs. Love said. “So, to kinda revamp and have this class who has gone through struggles like COVID and post-COVID be rewarded in such a way and see their team support them was fulfilling.”

The seniors shared a bit of wisdom for their lowerclassmen who want to follow in their footsteps.

“A lot of times when people apply for scholarships, they try to write in a way so that the judges will like them, but I feel that you should just speak from your heart,” Carrillo said. “Trust yourself and if you did the right things, you will be recognized.”

As they embark on this new chapter of their lives, the scholarship serves as a testament to their dedication. 

“Looking back at this moment will make me very proud that I was committed to applying and taking it seriously,” Lloyd said. “Old me would’ve just given up and I’m glad I can see what can happen when I apply myself.”