AUIM: How a Student-Run Dance Club Became a Home for Creativity and Connection
American University (AU) has no shortage of unique student life experiences and opportunities to cultivate your interests, supporting you in your journey of growth on campus. If you enjoy dancing and performing, and feel passionate about community, you might discover your people in AU In Motion (AUIM)—our largest student-run dance club.
Hear from students in our Class of 2029 on why they joined AUIM and how they found their community and sense of belonging, a pillar of AU’s new strategic plan.
Ashley Ruano KSB ’29
“I wanted to continue dancing and be surrounded by a positive group of people. I met so many amazing people from this club, including many new friends I made within my first year!”
Isabella Sarai CAS ’29
“I saw a post about applying to choreograph a piece for showcase and I was really interested in that. My first semester I got to have my own choreography go on stage which was amazing. I love AUIM for the dance opportunities but also for the community. I have made so many connections and great friends through AUIM.”
Talia Ravera SOE ’29
“I really wanted the opportunity to continue dancing after high school. AUIM is such an incredible community, and I've made so many friends and have gotten to meet so many incredible people. My favorite thing about AUIM is the amazing tap choreographers, I never thought I would tap dance again after high school, but I was in Olivia Denaro's tap pieces both first and second semester, and I absolutely loved it. She was so kind and welcoming, and had such a positive impact on my freshman year.”
Maggie McManamon SPA ’29
“The second I heard about AUIM at admitted students day in the spring of my senior year, I knew immediately it was a club I wanted to join, and doing so was the best decision I ever could've made in my freshman year at AU. I've been dancing in the same studio since I was three years old at home, and coming into a new environment, dance was one thing I could keep constant. Joining AUIM not only brought me a place to continue my love for dance, but also brought me my best friends at American.”
Lena Trinidad CAS ’29
“I wanted to continue dancing in college while connecting with people who shared my same love and passion. AUIM has given me some of my closest friends, the most wonderful memories, and a place where I could challenge myself, grow as a dancer, and always feel supported. I truly found my people!”
Andréa Smith SPA ’29
"I wanted to stay connected to my love for dance while finding a sense of community during my first year at AU. What I found was a family. AUIM surrounded me with supportive friends and incredible role models who constantly inspired me to push myself and grow.
Being part of the club not only made my transition to college easier, but it also sparked a passion for choreography that I never knew I had. My first year would not have been the same without AUIM, and I’m grateful for the friendships, mentorship, and opportunities it gave me.”
Photo credits (Instagram):
@sonisphotographs @lbkatcher_photos
@lainey_photos_ @connycaptures
