This past summer (summer 2025), Ashley Taylor got the wonderful experience of interning at the John Cranko School. This is the official school of Stuttgart Ballet, which is renowned worldwide for its Vaganova technique training and preparing its students to excel in the classical, neoclassical, and contemporary ballet repertoire. Founded by John Cranko, it carries on the legacy of the transformative choreographer whose ballets are performed by leading professional companies throughout the United States and Europe. She was able to develop additional skills and reaffirmed her post-graduate interests through this experience.
Name: Ashley Taylor
Class Year: Class of 2028
Major: Dance
Internship: John Cranko School
Internship Location: Windsor, CT
What skills or knowledge did you gain from this experience?
Through this experience, I developed strong organizational, communication, and operational management skills by supporting the daily logistics of a large-scale, international ballet intensive. I strengthened my leadership and mentorship abilities by supervising and guiding young dancers, fostering a safe, professional, and supportive environment. Additionally, I honed my ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders—including guest choreographers, the artistic director, faculty, and students—by listening carefully, adapting quickly, and executing needs efficiently to ensure a seamless experience for both participants and staff.
How did this experience shape or confirm your career interests?
This experience strongly confirmed my interest in working within the nonprofit performing arts sector. As a Dance and Business major, serving as a Program Assistant allowed me to see how high-level artistic training is supported by thoughtful administration, logistics, and community care. I gained firsthand insight into how nonprofit dance institutions balance artistic excellence with student well-being and operational structure. The experience also reaffirmed my desire to remain in the dance industry as both an educator and choreographer, where I can contribute creatively while helping build sustainable, impactful programs that support developing artists.
What advice would you give other students looking for similar opportunities?
I would encourage students to fully leverage the nationally acclaimed performing arts department and the strong professional network that comes with it. Faculty, upperclassmen, and alumni are deeply connected to industry opportunities and are often eager to mentor and recommend students who show initiative. I also advise students to embrace interdisciplinary interests—combining performing arts with majors like business, marketing, or education can open doors to roles that align more closely with individual passions and long-term goals. Being open, proactive, and willing to explore nontraditional paths can lead to meaningful and well-fitting opportunities.
The Center for Career Engagement diligently collects data on student participation in various experiential learning opportunities. Students have an opportunity to opt in to participate in one of our student spotlight series, and we are excited to share their experiential learning narrative. Keep an eye out for our next spotlight feature.
Want to be featured for our Student Internship Spotlight? Contact Maria Bruns and share your career experience via WashU Career Insights.
