Point Park POV: Hip Hop Major Laney Stefanyak '29 Student Profile

Why did you choose Point Park University’s School of Dance?

What appealed to me most was Point Park's new Hip Hop Dance concentration. As I was searching for programs to apply to during my senior year, I struggled to find one that catered to the commercial side of dance. I was really interested in hip hop and its history and no other program offered a concentration like Point Park's. I already knew about their School of Dance, which has a reputation as a top-tier school, and learning about the new concentration really sold me on the program.

What have you enjoyed most as a hip hop major?

My favorite thing so far is the dance community at Point Park. As soon as I got to campus, I was welcomed into the program with open arms and quickly found friends that I consider family.

Which faculty and courses have impacted you?

So far in my college career, Professors Crystal Frazier and Kiki Lucas have had an impact on me. During my first semester, Crystal taught me hip hop and I had a jazz class with Kiki. They never hesitate to help me grow and I know they believe in me. 

What’s it like training in Point Park’s dance facilities?

The studios at Point Park are wonderful places to dance. The George Rowland White Performance Center has large, beautiful windows that let in sunlight while we dance. Every studio floor is sprung, which makes dancing for many hours a day much easier on your body and helps prevent injuries.

What do you enjoy most about living and learning in Downtown Pittsburgh?

Even though I have lived in Kentucky for most of my life, I was born in Pittsburgh and have family here. I always loved the city, and it’s so nice to live and learn here. The campus is only a few blocks from PPG Place and Market Square, both of which have nice places to sit and do homework and good places to eat. Plus, with the free bus passes the school provides, you can be anywhere in the city in 20 minutes or less.

What advice do you have for a prospective student considering the hip hop program?

I would tell prospective students to really lean into themselves. Hip hop is so much about your individuality and personality within the foundations. This program will do a wonderful job of giving you the foundations and helping you find your own style. I would also tell prospective students not to be afraid to use the community established here, both faculty and peers. The community here is so welcoming and willing to help you with anything you ask.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I am so grateful to be a part of this big, beautiful dance family! Being part of the first year of the Hip Hop B.F.A. has truly been a gift, and I love dancing with some of my best friends every day.

@pointparku When your college has a hip hop dance major AND a built-in dance fam? Laney ’29 is living it — training, creating and chasing her dream career at Point Park University! Learn more about how you can, too - Pointpark.edu! #PointParkU #PointParkUniversity #DowntownPittsburgh ♬ original sound - Point Park University

More About: dance, Point Park POV, hip hop, Conservatory of Performing Arts