Lives: Springfield, Mass.
Works: Engineering Leadership Program, General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems, Pittsfield, Mass.
Both engineering and dance infused Gallo’s years at Union. In 2011, Gallo was one of 25 students nationwide to receive a NASA Aeronautics Scholarship, through which she worked with NASA researchers on a variety of air traffic projects. The previous year, as a Union College Villella Scholar, she took part in the Pulse Dance Convention in New York City, a tour de force of choreography and instruction.
On her best dance moment at Union:
Performing my choreography piece “Starry Night” in the dance concert my senior year. It was the first time I completed a full piece of choreography on my own. Performing it became a culmination of everything I learned while at Union.
On gaining an appreciation for the arts:
Being a dancer my whole life, I focused on only dance. Miryam (Moutillet), however, urged us to create a complete artistic performance, rather than just a dance show. For each dance concert, there was a theme with props, different musical choices, sometimes even acting. Each dance concert would push us to the next level, to create a story with our performance.
On continuing to follow her passion for dance after Union:
I became licensed to teach Zumba and teach a weekly class at a local gym. Though it’s not the same as dancing at Union, I’m still able to choreograph and share my love of dance with others.