There’s something about stepping into a new studio for the first time that makes your heart do a little grand jeté. New faces, new choreo, new vibes, everything is new! But all you can think is, What if I mess up? What if they don’t like me? What if I don’t belong? If you’re joining a new team this fall, whether it’s your first college dance team or just a new group entirely, nerves are totally normal. Everyone feels them, even the girls who might seem like they have it all together. So if you’re freaking out a little bit, let’s pause and take a new look at this chapter in your dance journey.
Your Hard Work Made This Possible
You’re not there by accident. You auditioned, you were seen, and you were given the opportunity. The casting directors and coaches saw something in you—your potential, your energy, your presence. When the nervous thoughts start creeping in, tell yourself, “I earned this spot.”
Remember, Perfection is Not the Goal
No one is expecting you to nail every 8-count or know every inside joke right away. Embrace being new to the team. Everyone has had a first practice, and no one remembers it for being perfect. Give yourself the same grace you’d give a teammate who’s just starting out.
Focus Connection Over Comparison
It’s easy to walk in and immediately start comparing who’s more flexible, who knows the coach better, and who’s already paired up for warm-up drills. But that energy just fuels anxiety. Instead, shift into connection mode. Compliment someone’s facials, ask for help on a count, or cheer someone on. That kind of energy attracts people and builds trust way faster than trying to prove you’re the best.
Have an Open Mindset
You don’t have to change your entire personality to fit in. Stay open. Be willing to learn the team culture. Show up with curiosity. Observe how the group supports each other and match that vibe in your own way. You’ll find your rhythm.
Build a Routine that Inspires Confidence
Your routine before you walk in the door matters. Whether it’s listening to a hype playlist, repeating an affirmation, or just taking a few deep breaths in the car, create a pre-practice ritual that calms your nerves and reminds you who you are. You’ve got this.
Act like You Belong
This one’s a mindset shift. Instead of waiting for someone to let you into the team, act like you’re already a part of it. Smile. Show up fully. Offer to help. The more you carry yourself like you belong, the quicker others will see you that way, too.
Give it Time
The truth? Feeling fully comfortable with a new team takes time. Sometimes weeks or longer. That doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. It just means you’re human. The best connections are built slowly and genuinely, not forced overnight.
Joining a new team can feel intimidating, but it’s also the start of something amazing. You’re walking into a space where you get to grow, to dance, and to discover more about yourself, onstage and off. So next time those first-day nerves hit, remind yourself: this is just the beginning. You’re not behind. You’re just getting started.
