Dance, exercise science grad finds rhythm of success at Western

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Over the course of her college career, Shaniya Tate has grown by leaps and bounds—both literally and figuratively.  

“Western Michigan University has made me grow in the best ways possible,” she says.

Graduating with a bachelor’s degree in dance and exercise science, the Chicago native gave herself a leg up on her peers through a multitude of Experience-Driven Learning opportunities—from dancing with world-renowned artists to being cast in multiple showcases, leading a registered student organization and completing career-defining internships.

“I’ve definitely built my resume,” she says. “To be able to say I’m versatile and have experience in so many styles as a dancer opens doors to so many opportunities.”

Raising the barre

Dance has been an agent of empowerment for Tate since she was little.

“I grew up being very shy and timid and barely talked, but when it came to dancing, it felt like I could finally express myself,” she says. “Dancing gives me a sense of freedom.”

Born prematurely at just 1 pound, Tate came to rely on dance as a form of physical therapy when she was young. And at Western, she’s proved she can punch well above her weight. She’s landed coveted roles in WMU’s Winter Gala Dance Concert every year she’s been on campus—a feat reserved for only the most capable feet.  

“The great thing about Winter Gala is you get to audition to be part of guest artist works,” she says. “I was honored to be part of Decidedly Jazz Danceworks my first year. They came all the way from Canada and set a 20-minute jazz piece that was definitely difficult but such a great experience because I had a chance to work with such amazing artists.”

Her sophomore year, Tate earned a spot in the Western Dance Project—a select touring dance company that gives students the opportunity to gain professional dance experience, work with guest artists, complete community outreach, and perform both locally and nationally.  

“Western Dance Project offered a sense of what an actual dance company would feel like while still being a student,” Tate says. “I was able to apply different dance techniques, teamwork and discipline. It allowed me to gain hands-on experiences that strengthened my confidence and understanding of the dance field.”

She also rose through the ranks of Ebony Vision, a multicultural dance ensemble, to become the registered student organization’s president.

“Ebony Vision was my home away from home, and I am so grateful I was able to lead such an amazing group,” says Tate.

She also found a mentor in the organization’s advisor, Monique Haley, associate professor of dance.

“She was someone who saw the real me,” says Tate. “She was so welcoming and always had her door open whenever I needed to talk about anything, and she was really impactful throughout my whole Western experience.”

Choreographing career success

Tate credits her choreography skills for managing to balance a demanding schedule of dance rehearsals and coursework with her exercise science major.  

“It was a lot of work; there were days when I would get out of rehearsal at 11 p.m. and go straight to the library to study until 2 a.m.,” she recalls. “If you’re really dedicated, really organized and set your priorities ahead of time, it’s very manageable. And my professors and supervisors were all extremely accommodating and supportive.”

She says having academic advisors who were always available for guidance as well as access to tutors and extra help outside of class to keep her on track made all the difference.

“Western gave me people and systems that made sure I was okay and able to thrive,” says Tate. “With those tools provided, I feel very set up for success in the future.”

Opportunities to volunteer within the exercise science field and even complete an exercise science internship at a dance studio further prepared her for a potential career that combines her two majors.

“I was able to get a behind-the-scenes look at how dance studios operate outside of the dancers,” says Tate. “I learned how to help with injuries and prevent them, how to work with dancers, and how to help them strength train and have the proper nutrition.”  

While her immediate goal after graduation is to audition and earn a role with a professional dance company, Tate says eventually she plans to pursue a doctoral degree in physical therapy and become a physical therapist for dancers.

“It would be very full circle for me, definitely,” she says.

Initially nervous about choosing a college, as she prepares to walk the Miller Auditorium stage at summer commencement on Saturday, June 27, Tate can’t imagine being anywhere else.

“If I went to another school, I wouldn’t have thrived or succeeded as much—and it’s because of the people I met who pushed me to be the best version of myself,” she says. “I will always say that Western was the right choice for me. You just know when it feels like home that this is the place you were meant to be.”

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