CSULB student Katelyn Catt dances her way through the semester

Many students in college focus diligently on classes and programs within their major, rather than branching out and taking coursework for their own pleasure and enjoyment.


CSULB student Katelyn Catt posing outside
of her beginning hip-hop class in the CSULB
dance center.
Photo Credit: CSULB student Jaime Gargas

Katelyn Catt, 20, is a second year English major at CSULB. While she focuses on her studies, she believes in always finding time to have fun and explore new ventures. Catt was looking to add a little more fun into her normal school routine, while also getting some exercise at the same time. Catt enrolled in beginner’s hip-hop in the CSULB dance department to see how it would go, and has had no regrets since.

“It hasn’t been hard to have this class while doing my general education,” said Catt. “I don’t think it’d be hard to take while taking my English courses either. If anything, it’s more of a break from school than an actual class. I get to relax and let go for that hour and 50 minutes – our teacher doesn’t judge us on how well we dance, but on how much effort we put into learning.”



While the class acts as more of a break from school rather than strict coursework, it does take up time that could be utilized in achieving the ultimate goal: graduation.

“I am debating taking more classes in the future,” said Catt. “Mostly because I am trying to get as many of my English courses taken care of as quickly as I can to graduate quicker. However, if I had an open slot, there’s a dance class that’s all about reading people’s body language – I would totally make room to take that class.”

Catt believes in balancing what you want to do, with things and classes that you normally wouldn’t do. College is a time to explore new ventures and try things that you may never have the opportunity to do in the future. She encourages students to partake in dance classes and let go of any insecurities or unsure feelings.

“I would say go for it,” said Catt. “This dance class is so fun, and there are a variety of people in it. Out of a class of around 50, only five really students know how to dance well, so you don’t have to feel uncomfortable about not being the best. Just go to have fun and get loose. Everyone has a good time, the teacher is super cool, and the music is pretty awesome too.”

The dance department offers classes to non-majors in a variety of forms such as African, flamenco, Pointe ballet, and even viewing classes. These dance classes are usually only 1-2 units, making it easy for students who are concerned with it interfering with their normal course of study, and often have live musicians playing music.

Now that the some of the common misconceptions have been tackled, get out there and take advantage of all of the classes that your school has to offer; try something new, and you may just surprise yourself.