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Jessilyn Rich
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Jackie Bowden, a 2015 graduate of 春梦直播, has carved a unique path for herself, blending her passions for communications, advertising, dance, and graphic design into a thriving business. Today, she鈥檚 the proud owner of , a mobile dance studio that brings movement to children in communities across the North Shore and beyond.
Growing up in Lynn, Jackie was always encouraged to explore a wide range of activities鈥攄ance, cheerleading, softball, theater, and more. Her family instilled in her a strong work ethic, teaching her the importance of commitment and time management. 鈥淭here was zero 鈥榪uit mid-season鈥 in my family,鈥 Jackie recalls. 鈥淚 had to maintain my grades and honor my commitments, and that鈥檚 something I鈥檓 truly thankful for.鈥
Her father鈥檚 advice also shaped her career outlook: 鈥淔ind something you enjoy doing for work, because that鈥檚 how you鈥檙e going to spend most of your time.鈥 This mindset gave her the freedom to explore different interests, ultimately guiding her toward a career that merges her diverse passions.
When it came time to choose a college, Jackie was looking for an affordable education with diverse opportunities. 鈥淚 wasn鈥檛 sure what I wanted to do yet, so Salem State鈥檚 broad selection of majors and the affordability drew me in,鈥 she says. With a natural interest in communications, she chose to pursue a double major in communications with a concentration in advertising, and dance and graphic design as a minor.
鈥淚 chose communications because it allowed me to explore various career options while honing my creativity, especially through the advertising focus,鈥 Jackie shares. Though she considered pursuing dance more seriously, she opted for a minor and committed herself to being as involved as possible, making the dance studio her second home.
During her time at Salem State, Jackie became deeply involved in campus life. She was an active member of Repertory Dance Theater (RDT) and Salem Dance Ensemble (SDE), which helped solidify her passion for dance. She also helped found the Phi Sigma Sigma sorority, where she enhanced her leadership skills. One class in particular had a lasting impact: Freshman Seminar with Carol Rizzo. 鈥淚t really helped me reflect on my life and future through music,鈥 she recalls, 鈥渨hich was a unique and impactful experience.鈥
In addition to the classes and organizations that shaped her, Jackie鈥檚 various jobs throughout college were crucial in preparing her for life after graduation. 鈥淎ll of the jobs I had taught me valuable skills that I use every day,鈥 she reflects.
After graduation, Jackie spent time working as a graphic designer and dance instructor, while also pursuing her passion for performance. She signed with a talent agency and auditioned in both Boston and New York for film and dance roles. During this time, she also worked a variety of jobs, from substitute teaching to being a brand ambassador. In 2018, the idea for her business鈥擬ini Movers Studio鈥攚as born.
What started as a passion project quickly turned into a full-time venture. 鈥淣ow, I run my business full-time, and I still perform and choreograph in the Boston area,鈥 Jackie says. Her mobile studio offers children鈥檚 dance classes across the North Shore, with plans to expand into new locations and launch more programs in the future, including her new location in Charlestown MA that opened in November.
Jackie鈥檚 journey has taught her the importance of patience, self-confidence, and persistence. 鈥淵ou CAN make something happen, but you have to be willing to put in the work and time for it,鈥 she advises prospective students. 鈥淣ot everything will happen all at once, and that鈥檚 okay. You just have to be patient and trust that you will figure it out.鈥
Her best advice for future students? 鈥淔ind what you love AND have a backup plan. Know that you can pursue an unconventional career path, but always have something to fall back on as you work toward your goals. The backup plan isn鈥檛 the end; it鈥檚 a safety net that helps you along the way.鈥
Jackie鈥檚 future is full of ambition. She plans to continue growing , expand her product line, and introduce new programs for teens and adults. She also hopes to broaden her work in community theater and choreograph more musicals. With her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for dance, there鈥檚 no limit to what she can achieve.
鈥淒on鈥檛 let yourself feel limited in life,鈥 Jackie encourages. 鈥淔ind what you enjoy, and make something out of it. There will be sacrifices and ups and downs, but if you maintain your focus, ask for help, and lean in, it will all be worth it.鈥
Jackie鈥檚 story is a testament to the power of pursuing what you love and having the perseverance to build something meaningful. We can鈥檛 wait to see where her journey takes her next!