Today we’d like to introduce you to Lizzy Rothstein.
Hi Lizzy, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in the Bay Area and started dancing at a young age. In high school, I began to explore my options, trying to figure out how dance would fit into my life in college and beyond. I had the opportunity to dance on the Cal Dance Team while attending UC Berkeley and then professionally after graduation. I spent 3 seasons dancing for the Golden State Warriors, which was a surreal experience. Looking back, I never imagined having the chance to continue my dance career after college, let alone with some of my closest friends in front of thousands of people night after night.
As much as I loved dancing and as much joy as it had brought me up until that point, I also knew that a greater part of my purpose was to help other people create and access their own joy. Cue me, moving to LA to pursue my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from The University of Southern California. During my time in school, I continued dancing and took on the role as Head Coach of the UCLA Dance Team. Having graduated last May, I am officially a licensed physical therapist working with dancers and other performing artists.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Life is never predictable. There have definitely been some bumps in the road, some setbacks, and some obstacles to overcome. When moving to a new city to start school during the pandemic, there was naturally a lot of uncertainty. Logistically, balancing being a student and working also proved to be challenging at times. I remember one day where I had to be on campus in LA in the morning for class, in San Francisco for a dance job in the afternoon, and back to LA by the next morning for a final- that was a stressful 24-hour period. However, I’ve had the most wonderful support system beside me in the good moments and the bad. I wouldn’t be where I am without them. I’ve also had such inspiring mentors in both my personal life and professional career who have helped shape the person I am and push me to keep going and keep growing.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a physical therapist, I have the opportunity to treat dancers and other artists across Southern California. My job is constantly keeping me on the move, from working one-on-one with clients to teaching classes and workshops to treating backstage at some incredible venues.
When I’m not treating dancers, I’m coaching them! I’m now in my third season as the Head Coach of the UCLA Dance Team. My team is phenomenal and extremely hard-working, in and out of the studio. They’re a huge blessing in my life.
Any time I have left in my week is dedicated to dancing, mentoring, teaching, and choreographing. It’s all a bit of a juggling act, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! Everything I do helps tie together different perspectives that I use to form connections and relate to those I’m working with. I think that’s what sets me apart, especially as a coach and physical therapist. I’ve been there. I know what the dancers I’m working with are going through, so I can better provide them with what they need. It’s been amazing to be able to blend my passions and experiences to create a meaningful career path to support the next generation of dancers and artists through multiple avenues.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
My ambition has had a large influence on where I am now. I try to push my own boundaries, and I’m always asking myself, “What’s next?”. Mostly, I am someone who takes on every opportunity that presents itself and makes the most of it, watching the rest unfold from there. Beyond that, I owe so much to those who have helped me get to this point. If I can play a small role in helping others reach their potential and realize their dreams, that is all I could ever ask for.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lizzymeg.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizzy_meg_/
Image Credits
Oliver Dabao
Joshua Leung
Lindsay Rosenberg
Jimmey Jett Loya
