to Texas Christian

By Allie Jorgensen Staff Writer

Victoria Goncalo’s love for ballet all started because of her grandmother, who was a ballerina in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and wanted Victoria to follow in her footsteps. Ever since she was 2 1/2 years old, her grandmother would sit her down in front of a TV and make her watch Barbie ballet and shows about ballet.

“I’ve pretty much been raised in ballet,” Victoria said, “and I just don’t know my life without it.”

Goncalo dances at Rowland Ballard and also with a pre-professional ballet company called Kingwood Dance Theater Group. She also has a side job teaching ballet to little kids from ages 3-8.

“I just genuinely love teaching and seeing the kids grow as they go on,” Victoria said.

From teaching, she has learned and grown as a dancer. It really helped her figure out how her own body understands things because she interprets it to kids and can then interpret it to herself.

Victoria Goncalo’s parents have helped her navigate through life and push through hard times. They have really supported her in lead roles and busy schedule. They have also been there for her in her college dance decisions. Despite the sometimes high expenses, she is grateful for her parents’ help.

Her ballet teachers have also been critical in her success. She said they have been her number one support system – on her good days and her bad days.

“I would not be here without them,” she said.

Goncalo said her biggest accomplishment is getting into Texas Christian University’s ballet program. She is excited to do a lot of different performances and improve her dancing skills in college. Currently she does not plan on dancing professionally, but she will take the opportunity if it comes. She plans on going into law school after college and then continuing to teach dance.

“Hopefully one day I can open my own studio or work at a studio,” Victoria said.