Strong Connections
Coming from Lincoln, junior Taylor Jacobsen came to Midland for the opportunity to continue her passion for dance while also growing her career aspirations. Through conversations with both the dance program and her school, it was evident to her that she wanted to be a part of these families.
“I really liked the small atmosphere here and how you aren’t just a number, but a face. I enjoyed watching the dance program in high school and knew I wanted to be a part of that dance family. Then through my conversations with Nick [Schreck] about the business program, I saw that I would be able to have a personal connection with my professors. I thrive as a student in those types of atmospheres.”
As a competitor, Taylor was drawn by the opportunity to compete in dance at the collegiate level. Though a member of the competitive team, Taylor views dance as not only a way to compete, but also as an outlet for expression.
“Growing up, dance was natural to me. I liked how I was able to express my emotions through dancing more. I still like it today because it gives me a type of structure as a student and as a competitor.”
Being a part of this program at Midland has been like being a part of another family. Though there are multiple distinct dance teams, Taylor loves that the culture they have built is still based on coming together. Though they have different styles of dance, they are all one program.
“I really do think we are one big family. We have different teams, and I think it’s really cool we can offer all these areas of dance. But, it doesn’t matter what team you are on; we can all come together and support each other. In other programs, I see more division, while in this program, your talents are utilized, and there is a place for everyone.”
Beyond dance, Taylor hopes to take her competitive spirit into her future career. As a business and criminal justice major, she hopes to fall into a career in prosecution law. Taylor finds the atmosphere of law exciting and enjoys the challenge that comes with it.
“I think law is interesting in that there is not always a clear right or wrong answer. You can make arguments for either way, depending on your perspective. To someone, you are going to be right. I like that it is a career that isn’t the same every day. You have to think differently and always think on your toes.”
A major impact in Taylor’s life and aspirations to pursue law has been her father. With a career in law enforcement, Taylor’s father has been a guiding presence for her, helping her pursue her degree and giving her opportunities to make connections within the field. Beyond that, he has been her rock in all aspects of her life.
“He’s never given up on me. He’s the person I will always call when I have problems with literally anything. If I have problems at work, with school, or dance, I will always call him. He will always listen and give me advice.”
As Taylor continues her degree and her career in dance, she looks to make the most of her time here in college. She sees this time as special. The connections she makes with her professors, classmates, and team are connections that she can truly take with her beyond college. She encourages her fellow students to recognize this opportunity and take advantage of it.
“Make the most of your time here. There are so many things you can get involved in and pursue. You can make so many connections here if you really try. I think it’s really important to get to know everyone because here you really can do that here. Because if you do try, you can get to know everyone at Midland if you want to.”
Taylor Jacobsen is a junior business and criminal justice major from Lincoln, NE. To share your story or nominate a friend, email social@midlandu.edu or post using #FacesofMidland.
