• •  Harvey Rovine, Chair
  • •  E.O. Bull 120
  • •  Phone: 610-436-3463
  • •  hrovine@wcupa.edu

 

 


 

Student Spotlight

Giovanna Salerno

Name: Giovanna Salerno
Area of Study: Exercise science, pre-physical therapy concentration; Dance minor
Hometown: Scranton PA
Expected Graduation: May 2014

Why did you decide to attend West Chester University?

I decided to attend WCU because when I decided to go into physical therapy, I knew that I wanted to keep dance in my life as well. West Chester was one of the only schools I found that offered both a pre-physical therapy major and dance minor. My cousin studied here as a dance minor and participated in WCU’s dance productions, which I always came to see. I knew when I saw her dance here ten years ago that one day I wanted to dance at WCU, and I was thrilled to find out that West Chester boasted an excellent pre-physical therapy program as well. I knew it was the right school for me.

What is your favorite thing about the Department of Theatre and Dance?

My favorite thing about the Department of Theatre and Dance is that there are so many opportunities to perform. I was fortunate enough to have been in Cabaret and both the fall and spring University Dance Company concerts last year, in addition to performing in the student-run AIDS Benefit and Danza Symbiotica concert. I also love that we are offered free master classes taught by everyone from theatre/dance faculty to numerous guest artists to senior students.  In addition, I am really enjoying the plethora of academic classes the Theatre and Dance department offers – not just technique but choreography courses as well.

What didn't you know about the Department of Theatre and Dance before you came to WCU?

Before I came to WCU, I didn’t know about the number of performances we as students have the opportunity to participate in. I also didn’t previously know about the free master dance classes offered to all WCU students with so many outside guest artists.

What do you plan to do after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school to earn my doctorate of physical therapy. I would also like to teach dance. As a member of WCU’s new Yoga Teacher Training Program, I hope to teach yoga and dance and integrate them into my practice of physical therapy. I’ve not only learned about, but experienced, the many physical and rehabilitative benefits of dance and yoga, and I want to share that with as many people and patients as possible.

What would you like to tell students considering WCU or the Department of Theatre and Dance?

To students considering WCU, I would say that I’ve never felt like I didn’t belong here. WCU has everything that I would have hoped to be involved in as far as extracurricular activities, as well as a fantastic program for my major and minor. I love the area and I’ve never once regretted my decision to come to school here. It is incredible being a part of such a dynamic department as the Department of Theater and Dance. West Chester has a truly remarkable arts community.