Wanna stand out in dance class? Of course, it's not the #1 priority to gain personal attention by taking a dance class. However, going to dance class day in and day out and feeling like you have no presence in the environment can feel a little futile. Plus, if you're pursuing dance professionally, then knowing how to make a statement will make auditions a breeze. So how do you stand out in dance class without being too try-hard-y? Here are 9 simple ways to make sure that you can make taking a class an opportunity to really express yourself – and stand out while doing so.

To stand out in dance class..

1. Talk to the choreographer before the class starts

When the class starts, the choreographer will be focused on their job – and it'll be hard to establish a relationship during it. For them to keep an eye out on you throughout the class: introduce yourself, say a quick hello, or even a "I'm so excited for your class today!" They'll remember you in a sea of students and their minds will inescapably draw their eyes to you because you are now a familiar face. Plus, most choreographers will appreciate that effort – as they're probably nervous, too! Related Article: Why Dancers Have Trouble Learning Your Choreography

2. Freestyle before and after the piece

The dancers who are fun to watch in class may not necessarily be the cleanest, nor even the best executors. They are the ones that you can tell are genuinely enjoying what they're doing.If you genuinely love dancing, then you won't limit your time to dancing from the first move to the last pose – you'll be dancing as long as the music's playing. To stand out in dance class and to enjoy it more, get comfortable with where the piece counts in during the class. When it's time for groups, groove out until the first move – and continue grooving after the piece ends. It'll not only help you perform the piece better by putting you into the mood of the music prior to the piece, but also let the rest of the class know that you're there to dance as much as you can.

‍Related Article: 5 Dance Tips To Begin Your Freestyle Foundation

3. Wear an outfit that's so "you"

If all-black is your thing, cool! Bright, colorful windbreakers and retro sneakers call to you? Cool! Crop tops and high-waisted leggings make you feel cute af? That's super cool – me too! Trying too hard with outrageous fashion choices that are obviously not "you" will make you stand out... but not in a good way. To stand out in dance class without being contrived, opt for pieces that you feel comfortable in – both physically and mentally. Having one unique, signature item helps. Your favorite pair of yellow chucks? Yas. That 7-year old snapback you've bee dancing in since day 1? U betta rock it.

‍Related Article: Dear STEEZY, Where Does One Go To Buy ‘Hip Hop’ Clothes?

4. Ask quality questions during dance class

This is something that the rest of the dance class will notice, and appreciate you for.If you have a question – a good question (one that cannot be answered with your eyes), then the choreographer's answer will help you and the entire class. Ask your question loud and clear so that the other dancers who were wondering the same thing will look to you with a "OMG same, thanks lol"

‍Related Article: How To Make The Most Out Of Taking Dance Classes

5. Engage with the rest of the dancers in the class

Asking the choreographer a question engages with the choreographer and indirectly includes the rest of the class. In addition, try talking to your fellow class-takers in a more direct manner. Even if you don't know them personally (yet!) funny side comments, shared glances, and helping each other with certain moves are the easiest ways to break the ice. You can formally introduce yourself later – when it won't interrupt the class flow. But cracking a joke here and there? That is what makes the class flow. Yee.

‍Related Article: How To Positively Contribute To The Dance Community

6. Show up consistently to dance class

Consistency is the key to success, in anything. While you should make the most out of every visit to the studio, the quantity and frequency of visits to the studio will also help. You'll build relationships over time, inevitably – with fellow studio regulars, the studio's staff, choreographers, etc. Being the "regular" will definitely make anyone stand out in dance class. Showing up is 80 percent of life!

‍Related Article: 5 Simple Daily Practices To Improve Your Dancing Ability

7. Take those milky / freestyle moments and make it your own

Showcase your individuality with every chance you get – and lucky for us, these chances come up pretty often! You know which ones I'm talking about – when the choreographer says something along the lines of "your arms are free here," or "and freestyle the next 4 counts" – that's your time to do you! Don't go with the boring ol' default move that the choreographer used por ejemplo. Instead, really use your creativity and come up with something that is unique to you, but still fits the mood of the piece/music.

‍Related Article: 5 Dance Tips For Picking Up Choreography Faster

8. Cheer for everyone in the class!

No better way to strengthen bonds in the #commUNITY than by showing support. Here are some words/phrases you can choose from:"YAAAASSSS _____!!!""YOU BETTA _____!!!""WERRRRRK_____!!!""OKAYYYYY ______!!!""I SEE YOU ______!!!""SLAYYYYY ______!!!""GET IT ______!!!""GO AWFFFFF ____!!!" Or any combination of those. For example: "YES MAMA YOU BETTA WORK, SLAYYYY~!"

‍Seriously, though. Even if you don't know specific names, just cheer for the whole group! "Group 1" or "Ladies" or "Fellas" can all substitute ___.

If you just met someone before or during the class, then showing 'em love as they perform is sure to kick off the friendship on the right foot. Not the left one. Your supportive attitude will make you stand out in dance class, in the best way possible!People flock to positivity. Including yourself. It'll make you a happier dancer/person, overall.

‍Related Article: How To Thrive In A New Dance Community

9. Go AWFFFF.

We didn't want to include "be freaking dope" because talent obviously speaks for itself. But more than just having skill, what'll stand out in dance class is having passion. We mean "go awff" in a sense of: committing to each move, going full-out in groups, performing your butt off, freestyling, etc. Giving the piece your all is a sure-fire way to both push yourself to improve, and pull in your direction the attention of all those around you. You may even end up inspiring some dancers! *Note: This is not to be confused with "Go off." It's A-W-F-F, not O-F-F. If you go OFF, like, leave the room, no one will notice you. Don't do that. Remember, AWFF.

‍Related Article: Dear STEEZY, What Are Some Tips For Improving Choreography Pick-Up? You ready to get out there and make your individuality be knownst to the dance community? Put these intro practice and let us know how your next class goes ;)

‍Got any more tips on getting noticed in a class or workshop? Comment below and share with us! Practice your comfortability with these tips by training in a more lowkey atmosphere – like in your living room! Sign up for STEEZY Studio today! This post was originally published on February 28, 2016.