Mackenzie Willbanks ~ Central Bucks South Class of 2019
Meet Mackenzie…
Mackenzie walked into FDA in 2017. She is an incredible role model and involved in activities such as martial arts & community service. Taking hip-hop & contemporary, Mackenzie loves the artistic & creative processes, and pushes herself to always perform at the highest level. Meet Mackenzie!
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to attend Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pennsylvania. I will be majoring in Art Therapy!
Do you have any plans that involve dance?
I also plan to try-out for Mercyhurst’s dance team for the Fall semester.
What is your best Freestyle Dance Academy memory?
My best FDA memory is the holiday party in December, with my hip hop class, where we create our own dance to a popular holiday song. And then after we create the dance, we then give out our Pollyannas.
What will you miss most about FDA?
I will defiantly miss most about FDA are my dance teachers and friends. I wouldn’t be the dancer that I am today if it wasn’t for FDA who continues to challenge me and support me.
How long have you been dancing with FDA?
I have been dancing for a total of 8 years, and for the past 2 years I have had the privilege to dance at Freestyle Dance Academy.
Mackenzie on stage at the annual Freestyle Dance Academy Dancer Showcase…
Besides dance, what are some of your interests and hobbies?
When I am not dancing, I can be found horseback riding, drawing, taking photos, going to karate class, or doing community service.
Favorite Celebrity or Figure:
My favorite famous person would have to be Jennifer Lawrence.
Favorite Food:
My favorite food is definitely pumpkin roll!
Favorite Music:
My favorite types of music are country and pop music.
Best High School Memory:
One of my best high school memories is volunteering for Art for All, which is an art therapy program working with dementia patients. In the beginning and at the end of the session, I asked them how they were feeling, and it was undeniable that the residents’ moods increased by the presence of art. This opportunity ultimately led me towards the direction of my dream career as an art therapist.
A Note from Mackenzie:
“Dance enables you to find yourself and lose yourself at the same time.”
A Note from FDA:
Mackenzie, it has been such a joy to watch you grow here at FDA. You have come out of your shell so much since you first started, and keep amazing us with the fabulous young lady you are…you’re strong, driven and intelligent. Watching you stretch into various dance styles, from hip-hop to contemporary, and apply the work ethic & focus required to accomplish incredible tasks (such as receiving your black belt) shows why you will be a dynamic Art Therapist, or whatever you choose to set your mind to. You are a role model to young people, and are involved in so many wonderful activities around the community. Your smile lights up a room when you walk into it, and you strive every day to improve yourself. Keep applying those fantastic qualities to any challenge life throws at you, and you will go far! You will always have a home & friends here at Freestyle Dance Academy, and we hope you will come visit as often as you can. We can’t wait to see what adventures you choose, and will be cheering for you along the way! ~ Love, your FDA Family
“Creativity takes Courage…” – Henri Matisse
