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NGI Recipient: Annabel Dryden

Session Attended: Country Dance and Song Society - American Dance & Music Week (2017)

I had such an amazing time and am so grateful for the scholarship that CDSS and Pinewoods Camp provided me to attend American Week. Even though I have been contra dancing since I was seven, I have never actually been to a dance camp. The community was incredibly welcoming and there was always someone there to answer my questions and help me settle in.

By the end of the week, I had pretty much gotten to know everyone. One of the highlights was calling on the stage in front of my friends and the people who had helped and mentored me. The only challenge I faced was having too many fun things to do! During the first few days, I tried to attend every workshop, dance, and event. As a result, I was quickly exhausted! After that, I learned to pace myself and had much more fun.

This program helped me to further my knowledge about other dance styles, as well as contra dancing, and calling. As a student, it would have been quite difficult for me to afford attending CDSS American Week without the NGI Scholarship and I am so happy that I got to attend.

I had so much fun at Pinewoods and hope I can make it next year!