It’s not every day you come across a story that makes you pause and reflect on the delicate art of choosing a path—especially when you’re young, talented, and standing at the crossroads of passion and practicality. Kaity Ross, our featured Teen of the Week, embodies that exact moment of tension, and honestly? It’s something so many of us can relate to, whether we’re dancers, writers, coders, or dreamers of any kind.
Kaity is a dancer—and not just any dancer. She’s spent years honing her craft, feeling the music in her bones, and expressing stories through movement. But now, as she looks toward her future, she’s weighing her options. Should she pursue dance professionally, with all its uncertainties and fierce competition? Or should she pivot toward something more “stable,” perhaps even outside the arts?
Sound familiar?
I think what stands out about Kaity’s story isn’t just her talent—it’s her thoughtfulness. In a world that often pushes young people to either “follow their dreams, no matter what” or “be realistic and play it safe,” Kaity seems to be navigating a middle ground. She’s considering how to keep dance in her life while also exploring other interests and opportunities. That kind of maturity is rare and incredibly refreshing.
So, what can we learn from Kaity’s approach?
First, passion doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. You can love something deeply without making it your entire career. Dance can remain a part of Kaity’s life whether she’s performing on stage or using it as a creative outlet while working in another field. The same goes for any passion—writing, painting, coding, you name it. Your art doesn’t lose value if it isn’t monetized.
Second, the skills we learn from our passions are often transferable. Discipline, creativity, resilience, teamwork—dance has given Kaity these in spades, and they’ll serve her no matter what she chooses to do. That’s something worth remembering when we’re tempted to see non-linear paths as “wasted” time or effort.
Lastly, it’s okay to be uncertain. The pressure to have your entire life mapped out by 18 is overwhelming—and honestly, unrealistic. Kaity’s willingness to explore her options, rather than locking herself into a single track, is a sign of strength, not indecision.
Here’s to Kaity Ross—and to every young person thoughtfully weighing their next steps. May we all have the courage to dance through our doubts and find a rhythm that works for us.
