Cool Kids on the Block — Jane Brazeau

Recess Media UW
3 min readDec 3, 2020

Welcome to Cool Kids on the Block, Recess Media’s weekly feature project where we showcase different creatives on campus who are passionate and committed to their work. New stories up on Medium every Wednesday.

This week’s Cool Kid is Jane Brazeau, a dancer and a student at the UW. She is involved with UW HHSA on campus. Read on to hear more about her story, her inspirations, and her words of advice!

Tell us about it!

Jane: Dance has almost always been a part of my life. At age 3 my parents enrolled me at a studio in my hometown, and I took dance classes regularly for many years. It was just a fun hobby at that time, but I started to take it more seriously when I was around 12 years old. I realized how much I loved to dance and what I could possibly do with it in the future. I tried out for my studio’s competitive team and competed and attended countless dance conventions all around the country until I graduated from high school. I trained in all styles of dance, but the one I’m most passionate to this day is based in hip hop.

Dance has brought me so many opportunities that I’ll be forever grateful for. I’ve been able to travel all over the country doing what I love, I’ve been in music videos and on national television, I’ve assisted and been mentored by professionals in the industry, and I’ve danced back up for some incredible artists. The relationships I’ve made throughout my dance journey will last a lifetime, and I’m constantly inspired and motivated by my peers.

What or who inspires you to continue your work?

J: My friends are a huge inspiration to me. Whether it be sharing the stage with them or just seeing their dance videos on social media, it’s something that never fails to bring me joy. During the pandemic and school being online, I’ve found dance to be a great escape, as well as a great way to get some physical activity in after spending the whole day on a computer.

What advice would you give to people who are just starting a hobby similar to yours?

J: I would say to just go for it! Whether you have a lot of experience or not, I think finding and joining a community of people who have the same interest in dance as you is so beneficial. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of the people from my dance teams and studios. A great way to make connections is simply by taking a dance class! There are tons of free virtual dance classes going on at the moment.

Anything else you want to share?

J: We are all going through a very difficult time right now, so it’s important to take some time for yourself! For me, I’m trying to make more time for dance. The UW Hip Hop Student Association holds FREE weekly dance sessions that are open to anyone and everyone! Check out their Instagram @uwhhsa for details!

Want to be featured on the next Cool Kids on the Block? DM us on Instagram at @recessmediauw or email us at recessmedia@uw.edu!

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