It's no secret that we have students at Radford that excel in an array of co-curricular activities, but having a student compete at a World Hip Hop Dance Championship in Phoenix, Arizona, might be a first for the College.

Year 11 student, Tiasha just returned from the United States where she competed in 2 groups, or 'crews' as they are known: Legacy and Creed. To the untrained eye, hip hop dancing might appear easy, but it is a lot of hard work. Reflecting on the competition, Tiasha described the dedication, commitment and passion that goes into competing at this level:

'Training in Arizona in 44-degree heat really tests your patience and mindset. Our teams were training for up to 13 hours a day in a big training hall surrounded by dancers from 55 different countries with loud music and cheering and shouting. It really enhances the need to focus and put all your effort into your passion,' says Tiasha.

Tiasha's ability to stay calm under pressure was also tested on the trip. She recounts how there were costume and routine changes less than 24 hours before the competition, which resulted in them having to put in a mammoth 12-hour training session. Luckily she is used to long training sessions, and manages to fit in training throughout the week along with her studies and other commitments. 'Being an all-rounder is something I strive for', she says.

Tiasha was also part of the Radford College group that travelled to Oxford earlier this year.

'I have never felt the importance of being exposed to different countries and cultures more than this year. I'm looking forward to observing the symmetry between dance and my learning at the College. I can already feel the difference in mindset when facing challenges with my work.'