Harlyn Hogan is a 17-year-old dancer from Little Rock, Arkansas. She dances at Ms. Karen’s Dance Studio.

“It’s so much more than dance. My studio is truly my second home.”

How does dance have a positive impact on your life?

It’s so much more than dance. My studio is truly my second home. Surrounded by positive people with a goal of team[work] at heart makes for a great experience. I hope and pray that I can encourage others to keep doing what you want even when it gets tough. Always remember why you started. The life lessons I have learned at MKDS will forever make me a better person.

How do you want to use dance to be a positive influence on your community?

This year I have gotten the opportunity to lead a group called Let Your Light Shine. It is a wonderful dance program designed to allow children with disabilities the chance to acquire a love for dance. Our competition dancers help by volunteering their time to partner with them and assist on their journey. I have the honor of choreographing a Christmas program and a competition routine for them. What a blessing they are to me.