The journey for our students that take part in the student ambassador program is exciting and rewarding. From the beginning level of student ambassador to junior trainee up to the top tier of apprentice, our faculty guides and mentors students to not just become role models but to start to see themselves as leaders and effective communicators. Each level of the tiered program gives students opportunities to receive feedback on their performance in the classroom and helps them to work effectively in the group setting. With the guidance of our seasoned dance educators our students can set and reach goals through this program that can propel them into a successful leadership role upon completion.

- Andrea LaMaina, Co-Owner / Artistic Director, That’s Dancing

Student Ambassador Leadership Program

The Student Ambassador Leadership Program at That’s Dancing provides dedicated students with the opportunity to develop leadership skills while serving as faculty assistants and representatives of our studio community.

To be eligible, dancers must be enrolled in at least three technique classes for the 2026–2027 dance season, maintain strong attendance in all current classes, and consistently demonstrate responsibility, respect, kindness, and a positive attitude both inside and outside the classroom.

Student Ambassador

Dancers ages 8 and older who meet the above qualifications are eligible to apply to become a Student Ambassador. Student Ambassadors serve as faculty assistants and role models for our younger dancers. Responsibilities include assisting with classroom management, demonstrating exercises and combinations, helping dancers stay engaged and focused during class, escorting younger students to the restroom when needed, and representing the values and culture of That’s Dancing.

Student Ambassadors play an important role in creating a positive, supportive, and welcoming learning environment for all students while developing leadership, communication, and mentorship skills of their own.

Junior Trainee Ambassador

Dancers ages 12 and older who meet the above qualifications and have a minimum of two years of Student Ambassador experience are eligible to apply to become a Junior Trainee.

Junior Trainees take on an expanded leadership role within the program. In addition to serving as faculty assistants and studio ambassadors, they have the opportunity to mentor, guide, and help train new and less experienced Student Ambassadors. This leadership experience allows Junior Trainees to further develop their communication, teaching, and problem-solving skills while helping maintain the high standards of the Student Ambassador Program.

Training opportunities may take place within their regularly assigned classes, where Junior Trainees work alongside faculty members to support and coach newer ambassadors. In some cases, Junior Trainees may also be asked to attend additional classes or special training opportunities to assist with the onboarding and development of Student Ambassadors across multiple age groups and programs.

Through these experiences, Junior Trainee Ambassadors gain valuable hands-on leadership experience while helping shape the next generation of ambassadors at That’s Dancing.

Apprentice

Dancers who meet the above qualifications, are 14 years of age or older, and have a minimum of four years of experience as a Student Ambassador may be considered for an Apprentice position. The Apprentice Program is the highest level of the Student Ambassador Leadership Program and is designed for dedicated dancers who demonstrate exceptional leadership, maturity, and a passion for dance education.

This advanced leadership opportunity is geared toward students who are interested in pursuing a future in dance, dance education, arts administration, or related fields. Admission into the Apprentice Program is by recommendation only. Eligible dancers must be recommended by That’s Dancing faculty, with final selections made by the Artistic Directors based on leadership qualities, reliability, initiative, professionalism, and overall readiness for the program.

Throughout the season, Apprentices will work closely with a faculty mentor who will help guide their growth as leaders, educators, and young professionals. Apprentices will have the opportunity to assist guest artists, observe and support faculty members in a variety of classroom settings, gain experience and knowledge in working behind the scenes at Dance Gala tech rehearsals, and gain valuable insight into the day-to-day responsibilities of dance educators and studio leaders.

As leaders within the Student Ambassador Program, Apprentices serve as training assistants for both Junior Trainees and Student Ambassadors, helping to mentor and develop the next generation of studio leaders. They may also be eligible to assist with choreography, rehearsal direction, classroom planning, and other educational opportunities as appropriate. Apprentices will also have access to additional professional skill-building resources and leadership opportunities.

Through this program, Apprentices will develop valuable leadership, communication, teaching, organizational, and problem-solving skills while gaining hands-on experience in a variety of educational and studio settings. The Apprentice Program is designed to prepare dancers for future success by providing meaningful mentorship, practical experience, and a deeper understanding of what it means to be an educator, mentor, and leader within the dance community.

If you are interested in applying for any of the above positions. Please fill out the application and submit it to Ms. Nicole via email at coleeg01@gmail.com Dancers interested in being considered for an Apprentice position should contact Ms. Nicole.