Christy McCartha

Tell me about the dance group you are in.

I've been in Climax since October. It's been established since 2001 here at the University of Michigan. We dance to hip-hop, reggae, all types of music, its a very diverse dance group.

Why did you choose Climax out of all of the other dance groups on Campus?

My suitemate is a part of Climax's e-board (the committee that makes all of the decisions for the dance team). Once she told me about it, I looked into it and auditioned. At the audition is where I really decided I wanted to be in it. The environment was so comfortable. They made me feel like I would really enjoy myself dancing with them. Some teams don't let the new dancers add any input. I felt like I could help to build up the team and add my own style.

How does Climax allow you to express yourself artistically?

One thing I like about the freedom of expression is, for performances, we are allowed to create our own outfits. They tell us what color to wear, and we just work off of that. Soon I will be the costume director. So I will be able to express my artistic side through design as well.

What other forms of artistic expression do you engage in?

I play the piano, the cello and I am a vocalist. I sing in the church choir. I wouldn't mind being a performer, but right now I am majoring in brain, behavior, and cognitive science for pre-med. I plan on becoming a pediatric neurologist in the future.

Wow, you have a lot on your plate. How do you balance being a part of Climax with your other academic commitments?

We meet twice a week, nine to eleven o'clock, so its after class hours. I built my schedule so I have time in between. But sometimes I end up having to stay up really late to get everything done.

When do you get a chance to play the piano and cello?

Well, I used to play the piano for church every Sunday. I have been taking lessons since the age of seven. I started playing the cello in the seventh grade. I also played in the orchestra in middle school and in high school. At first I played the violin, but I decided to switch to the cello later on.

Why don't you play in U of M's orchestra?

I just wanted to take a break for a little while so I can focus on my first year of academics at the University.

Why did you decide to go into neurology instead of the performing arts?

I like music a lot as a hobby, but it's not something that I want to pursue as career. But if I had the chance to sing and model professionally, I definitely would.