Brianna Jones
When Natalie Peterson (B.A. Dance, B.A. Public Relations & Advertising ’20) graduated from Chapman University, she knew dance would always be at the center of her life. What she didn’t realize was that her passion would one day place her on some of the biggest stages in the world.
“My favorite project I’ve ever done has to be the Eras Tour with Taylor Swift,” Peterson says. She refers to world tours as one of the most significant milestones a dancer can achieve, as she recalls performing on some of the largest stages she has ever seen. Reflecting on the experience, she adds, “To get to do it for an artist like her, who is so kind and so incredible, has such longevity in her career, and is at the top of her game at this moment, was just… I still pinch myself to this day thinking, ‘How did I get so lucky?’”
From Chapman to the Spotlight
Peterson double majored in Dance and Public Relations & Advertising, a pairing she says helped her grow both creatively and in her approach to work.
“One of the greatest things I developed at Chapman was professionalism,” she says. “It’s always surprising to me, getting into the entertainment industry, how little things like being on time or responding to an email promptly — and doing it respectfully and well — can matter. Those are skills you take for granted, but not everyone learns them.”
As a sophomore, Peterson choreographed her first ballroom piece for the Chapman Dance Alliance showcase, a moment that helped shape her direction as a dancer.
“It was the first time that I had tried to teach ballroom to commercial dancers who don’t know ballroom,” she says. “It really showed me that this is something I actually love doing and want to pursue.”
Peterson says Chapman gave her the space to explore, experiment, and figure out where she fits within the dance world, a quality that has continued to define her work today.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
Staying True to Her Path
Reflecting on her own journey, Peterson shared advice she thinks is important for all aspiring dancers to hear.
“It’s not that serious,” she states. “It’s also a very competitive field, so there’s probably going to be way more times that you hear ‘no’ than you hear ‘yes’.”
She emphasizes the importance of staying focused on your own path. “You just have to stay true to what you want to do, where you think you fit in the industry, and keep going on that path because what is meant for you will not pass you up.”
Building Resilience
Peterson also stresses resilience. Performers give their all at auditions and may still hear no, often for reasons outside of their control — from a slight difference in height to the wrong hair color. “Once you understand that mentality and just be unbothered and unaffected and stay on your course, that’s when you will thrive in this industry,” she says.
Natalie Peterson’s journey from Chapman to the Eras Tour shows what’s possible with hard work, focus, and a bit of resilience. As she puts it, “When you pursue a passion, it doesn’t feel like work all the time. You can create this lifestyle around your passion, and it can become a career that’s multifaceted.” For aspiring dancers and creatives, her story serves as a reminder that dedication and staying true to oneself can open doors that once seemed out of reach.
Key Takeaways for Future Panthers
Follow what inspires you.
At Chapman, you’re encouraged to explore your interests across disciplines and discover new ways to turn your creativity into a meaningful career.
Grow with confidence.
Every experience in the classroom, on campus, or out in the world helps you build the skills and mindset to take your next step with purpose.
Define your own path.
Through mentorship, real-world opportunities, and a supportive community, Chapman empowers you to create a future that reflects who you are and what matters to you.
