Kaia Johnson '25 '26 Shares Positive Experiences in Interdisciplinary Studies, Master's in PreK-12 Dance Education Programs

Why did you choose Point Park University?

I chose Point Park because of the amazing dance program. I entered Point Park as a dance major with a concentration in jazz and a minor in education. Unfortunately, I have had two knee surgeries since then, so I started looking at other degree options. I discovered the School of Arts & Sciences' interdisciplinary studies program and fell in love with it!

What are the benefits of the interdisciplinary studies program?

The benefits of the interdisciplinary studies program are the many opportunities to structure your education how you as the student see fit. The program is highly customizable, and I am able to pursue all my interests.

Interdisciplinary studies majors complete a practicum project as part of their coursework. What was your project, and what did enjoy about it?

For my practicum project, I worked as an assistant teacher at a dance studio. Pairing the practicum with my Honors Program capstone research, I added a research component concerning injury prevention in adolescent dancers. I enjoyed this project as I was able to learn more about the field that I am entering.

You recently started the M.Ed. in PreK-12 Dance Education. What do you like about the program?

I like the M.Ed. in PreK-12 Dance Education because I am able to refine my teaching skills to be the best teacher that I can possibly be for the next generation. This program is preparing me for the field because I am learning how to teach the diverse learners that will walk through those dance studio doors.

Which Point Park faculty or staff have had a significant impact on you? 

Each of my professors at Point Park have had a significant impact on me, and I would not be where I am today without them. A few names that stand out to me are:

• Kiki Lucas, chair of the Department of Commercial Dance and assistant professor of jazz and hip hop
• Girard Holt, part-time dance faculty
• Jessica McCort, associate professor of composition and rhetoric and director of the Honors Program
• Stanley Denton, professor of education 

What do you like about being an online student?

The flexibility in my schedule is what I enjoy about being an online student. I can work as much as I need to without the constraints of a traditional in-person class schedule. Having online classes was also a major help as I recovered from surgery and had to use crutches. 

How has Point Park helped you to become career-ready?

Point Park has helped me become career-ready by preparing me for every aspect of that dance education field that I may encounter. Scenarios that I had not even considered have been addressed in my coursework, and it has helped me feel ready to enter the field as a dance instructor.

Why would you recommend Point Park to a prospective student?

I would recommend Point Park to a prospective student because of the small classes and dynamic educational experience. The faculty and staff are experts in their respective fields and share invaluable information.

More About: graduate programs, interdisciplinary studies, success story, Honors Student Organization, education, dance, Honors Program, School of Arts and Sciences Alumni, M.Ed. in PreK-12 Dance Education, School of Education, School of Arts and Sciences, faculty