Why I Rejoice: Belmont Students Cadence & Arina Share Their Journey with Rejoice

At Rejoice School of Ballet, our mission thrives through community, and one of our most meaningful partnerships is with Belmont University. Belmont’s Federal Work Study program employs students to work on campus or with small nonprofits (like Rejoice!), to help pay for school expenses. This program provides Rejoice with amazing student employees who work to enhance our mission of empowering young dancers. This month, we’re excited to spotlight two inspiring Belmont students, Cadence and Arina, who share why they choose to be a part of the Rejoice family while pursuing their academic careers.

Meet Cadence and Arina:

From Nashville to Alma: Different Journeys, One Shared Purpose

Cadence and Arina come from different worlds, but both were drawn to Rejoice for similar reasons: their love for dance, working with children, and a desire to make a difference. Cadence hails from the small town of Alma, Georgia, where her passion for music and dance began. She moved to Nashville to pursue a degree in music therapy at Belmont, eager to make an impact on young lives. Arina, on the other hand, is a Nashville native, drawn to Belmont’s fashion program and the personal growth she envisions in her future career.

For Cadence, her 10-year background in ballet, jazz, tap, and contemporary dance made working at Rejoice a natural fit. She knew she wanted to gain experience working with children, and Rejoice gave her that opportunity in a space she describes as "loving and joyful." Arina also found a home at Rejoice through her love of dance—having been on her high school dance team—and a passion for seeing children smile. Although ballet was new to her, she immediately connected with the Rejoice community’s warm and encouraging environment.

Building Connections, Creating Memories

Both Cadence and Arina noticed something special about Rejoice from the moment they started: the shared sense of community and support. Cadence was moved by the love that flows from the students, parents, and staff alike, saying, "I love being in an environment where you can see the love of Jesus being poured out and getting to love on these kids." Arina echoed this sentiment, adding that she appreciates how everyone at Rejoice works together to help the kids grow, learn, and have meaningful experiences.

Though Cadence and Arina’s academic paths are different, their hearts align when it comes to working with the energetic young dancers at Rejoice. Both students enjoy preparing for big events, such as the winter showcase and spring recital at Belmont, and agree that being part of the children's dance journeys is incredibly rewarding.

Why They Keep Coming Back

Cadence and Arina are in their third year of Belmont’s FWS program at Rejoice. What keeps them coming back? For Cadence, it’s seeing the excitement in the children's eyes as they dance. “It reminds me of when I used to take dance and being in their shoes,” she says. Arina, with her signature humor, says that Ms. Tonya, Rejoice’s School Associate and mother hen, won’t let her leave—but in all seriousness, it’s the chance to be a part of the children's dance memories and growth that keeps her coming back.

Beyond the Studio: Life at Belmont and in Nashville

When they’re not at Rejoice, both Cadence and Arina enjoy the vibrant life Nashville has to offer. Cadence can often be found exploring local thrift shops, hiking waterfalls, or grabbing food with friends at Taco Mama. Arina loves to shop, check out pop-up events, and discover new cafés around town. Outside of their bustling schedules, Cadence enjoys writing music and baking, while Arina likes to dance (just for fun!), read, and of course, shop.

Giving Back to the Rejoice Community

Both Cadence and Arina bring something special to the Rejoice family. Cadence describes herself as a "helpful hand" who’s always ready to listen and support students and their families, while Arina ensures that every interaction is light-hearted and fun, creating an uplifting atmosphere for parents and kids alike.

At Rejoice, we are incredibly grateful for their dedication and the energy they bring to our community. They are wonderful examples of how meaningful partnerships can strengthen the mission of nonprofits and create a lasting impact.

Stay tuned for more "Why I Rejoice" spotlights as we continue to celebrate the amazing individuals who make Rejoice such a special place.