Senior Spotlight: Katelyn Algarin '25
- PSOD
- May 4
- 2 min read
After 8 unforgettable years at Pinellas Studio of Dance, Katelyn Algarin is taking her final bow as she graduates from St. Petersburg Collegiate High School and St. Petersburg College. But don’t worry—this isn’t goodbye to dance just yet. Katelyn is headed to University of South Florida, Tampa to major in Political Science (Pre-Law) and minor in Dance, blending her passion for advocacy with her love of movement.
Lyrical and contemporary have always been her styles of choice. “It allows me to explore fluidity and flexibility within my movement,” Katelyn shares, “as well as various nuances such as stillness, free-flowing movement, and unique music.” Her connection to these styles deepened during her first solo with PSOD, 'Sign of the Times', which became a favorite recital piece and a moment of artistic growth.
One of Katelyn’s standout memories? A surprise birthday celebration in class thrown by Larissa, her longtime teacher and biggest inspiration. “Our birthdays are two days apart,” she says, “and she threw a joint party one day during class.” That kind of connection and support has been a constant throughout Katelyn’s dance journey.
Dance has taught her to trust and appreciate her body, and given her the confidence to take risks on and off the stage. It hasn’t always been easy—choreography and improvisation were challenges early on—but she pushed through with practice, one-on-one rehearsals, and self-trust. “I’ve learned to trust my abilities as a dancer,” she says.
Outside of the studio, Katelyn credits Helen French, her ballet teacher from Gibbs High School PCCA, for helping shape her technique and pushing her toward excellence.
You’ll never catch her on stage with it, but Katelyn always rehearses in her lucky jewelry—it’s a quiet ritual that keeps her grounded. And if she could pass on one piece of advice to the younger dancers at the studio, it would be this: “Trust your teacher and take your time—rushing through technique classes won’t make you a better dancer.”
What will she miss most? “The jokes and laughs that occur every week in class—and bothering Rachel every Thursday until she’s sick of me.”
Katelyn, your spirit, humor, and artistry have left a mark here that won’t be forgotten. We can’t wait to see all the places you’ll go—and how dance will continue to be part of your story.
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