Jessye Phillips
Degree: B.A. in Dance with a concentration in Dance Education, Minors in Theatre and TESL
Graduation Year: 2029
Tell us about yourself! How did you first get interested in dance and theatre?
I did not really study dance before UNC Charlotte. Apart from a few months of ballet classes when I was three and joining the color guard for marching band in high school, I had no prior dance experience.
Originally, I was going to Rowan-Cabarrus Community College for physics. However, I realized I don’t want to sit at a desk all day and do math; I want to run and jump and play outside. So that’s exactly what I’m doing. But this prior study in physics helped prepare me for aerial and rigging!
When I came to UNC Charlotte I had no idea they had any circus stuff at all. I just took a leap of faith. However, when I was fully transparent with my advisor, she told me about Professor Carlos Cruz and all the circus classes!
What kind of career do you hope to have?
Aerial performer or instructor, and hopefully open my own studio one day. I’m getting a minor in teaching English as a second language to immigrate to Finland.
What is your favorite thing about the College of Arts + Architecture?
I like that it’s not a competitive atmosphere and that everyone works together as a team. We focus on collaboration not competition.
Do you participate in any community activities or work in the Charlotte arts community?
I work at Ariel Joy in Fort Mill, South Carolina! I also donate a lot of my time to them free of charge. And I am the president of the Queen City Circus student organization.
When you are not in class, studying, or working, what do you like to do for fun?
Circus, playing with my bunny, knitting, crocheting, writing, social advocacy, and reading.