McKell R. Cook

I have been passionate about dance my entire life, but have always wrestled with whether to pursue dance or a more conventional career. After I finished my Bachelor's degree, I found it challenging to keep dance in my life due to the limited opportunities for adults and ultimately followed the more traditional career path. Despite this, I have always I actively sought opportunities to dance—whether through adult ballet and contemporary classes at Willamette, Zumba sessions with friends, or local studio classes. Now, I am completing my final semester of law school at Willamette University, I realize both dancing professionally and pursuing a traditional career are possible. Being part of a professional dance team has been a lifelong dream, and I regret not pursuing it earlier. Dance remains a central part of my life and my ultimate passion.