Project 2 interview summary

I interviewed Logan Tharpe, the business owner and director of Artistry Dance Alliance on Thomasville road in Tallahassee. I asked her multiple questions about her Dance community in hopes of joining this community in the fall. I first asked her about what a typical day is when fall classes begin. She responded with “I arrive and begin with class planning while greeting parents and students as they arrive. Then I teach a variety of ages while interacting with parents in between classes assuring everyone seems satisfied.” Logan seemed to have a passion for dance so I proceeded with asking why does this industry interested you and how did you get started. “Well, I danced my whole life and always knew I wanted to give back and teach. I also enjoy being involved in the youth while giving them a positive outlet to be artistic and athletic.” Logan has obviously had many jobs and experiences to become a studio owner. She explained her experiences; “Teaching dance before I graduated college got my foot in the door. Prior to graduating, I was involved in event planning, recreation management to be more specific. Also, moving away and to see what was beyond Tallahassee helped quite a bit with where I am now. Being employed at a small and developing studio that I was able to influence as opposed to an established studio benefited me.” There must be a lot going on behind doors that customers don’t see, so I asked her what part of your job do you find most challenging and most satisfying. Logan took a minute to think and responded with “Having to manage every aspect of the business is most challenging. I get the most satisfaction when people feel like the studio is their second home.” I remembered feeling like my studio was my second home. I proceeded to ask what it is you enjoys most about working in the dance industry? Logan answered, “Becoming involved with kids day to day lives and helping them discover who they are.” I couldn’t of loved that answer more but our interview was just getting started. How do you think your company differs from other competitors in Tallahassee? “We provide a whole experience where a student can express themselves artistically, develop technically, learn responsibility and work ethic, maintain an athletic regiment, and feel at home while doing it. Our focus is on an individual dancer opposed to the studio as a whole. The individual journey of each dancer compared to a team success is important. We treat dance as a sport.” I continued by asking what types of questions should I be asking about this particular dance community? Logan answered quickly with, “You should be asking about the time commitment and all the hours and hours that you will have to put in that you might not get paid for. Also, you should be concerned with not just dance but with relationships with the dancers and parents. You should be asking what do you need to do to provide the service that I want you to provide.” Logan is someone who knows what she wants and when she wants it. What type of characteristics do you look for in people that want to join it? “I look for strong work ethic, passion, responsible people so I don’t have to dictate what they do, someone who is pleasant who wont upset any parents or kids. I’m looking for someone that I feel shares the vision of the studio.” I wrapped up with a question I always ask people who seem to have their lives figured out, What advice would you give your college self knowing what you know now? “Keep doing what you’re doing because all the mistakes you made we are learning, and all the decisions you made in an effort to grow and learn were wise and helpful. Don’t be discouraged. You will get there.”