Check Out Sydney Tyra’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sydney Tyra. 

Hi Sydney, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have been a ballet dancer since I was 8 years old, but I have loved to sing and dance from the time I was able! Growing up with dance provided me with mental and physical strength, unshakeable tenacity, unbreakable bonds with friends, and lessons that follow me beyond the studio. Learning how to express myself in a way other than speaking was such a gift for my quiet yet fiercely determined soul. I absolutely loved the way that ballet gave me something to constantly work towards. Just thinking about that unachievable perfection that exists at the core of ballet technique is enough to discourage anyone, but it fills me with such a fire that I just can’t let go. My passion for dance has certainly waxed and waned through the years as other interests and hobbies grew, but my love for it was just so constant that I could never seem to leave the studio for too long. Now, I study at UC Irvine, pursuing a double major with Dance and Psychological Sciences. I feel so lucky to be where I am right now. I could not be more grateful for all of the support from my parents, my ability to dance, and the honor it is to be studying at UC Irvine. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In my personal experience, ballet is a pursuit of perfection, which is somewhat of a paradox – it is commonly understood that perfection is simply unattainable. However, that doesn’t stop ballet dancers from working as if they are machines to strive for incredible feats of athleticism and aesthetics. Sometimes, this hard work can be draining and lead to negative self-talk. It’s so important to recognize when to take a step back, and as I’ve grown up, I’ve learned it is more than okay to ask for help. After all, dancers are humans, not machines, despite the rigorous classes and long rehearsal hours expected of us. My relationship with dance has ups and downs, but I feel as though I have reached a very healthy place with it now. Spending time in the dance studio has become my meditation and my outlet for expression, as well as a place full of like-minded peers who constantly inspire me to be my best. Comparison and perfectionism have certainly brought me down at times, but by working hard on shifting this mindset, I have realized that I can use this energy to fuel better thoughts. For example, instead of comparing myself to other dancers, I feel inspired by their talent; and instead of getting down on myself for not doing something right, I remember how far I’ve come and be proud of myself for just showing up. Simply focusing on the joy of movement can be extremely healing for me. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am currently studying at UC Irvine, pursuing a double major with a Dance BA and Psychological Sciences BA. I feel this opportunity is so unique – many dancers face the dilemma of having to make a choice between academics of dance. I was lucky enough to be able to continue with both, receiving incredible instruction in both fields as well. Alongside my studies, I am working on building my modeling portfolio. I am also crafting a social media presence, with lots of help from the amazing photographer Oliver Endahl of Ballet Zaida as we shoot in Los Angeles often. This pathway was so wonderful for me because it allows me to have a variety of options; I could pursue dance after college, go to grad school, continue modeling, or do something in the field of psychology. I’m just now entering my 20s and I feel nervous but ecstatic because every day, I believe the world is only expanding for me! 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @sydney.tyra

Image Credits
Oliver Endahl