We had the good fortune of connecting with Sierra Sebastian and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sierra, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I am from Laguna Beach, California. I was raised in Mission Viejo, California until age 10, relocated to Arizona with my family and have been in the desert since. Both locations have allowed me to be grounded through my surroundings of the ocean and mountains. As an only child, I have been taught many values such as independence, perseverance, to be goal oriented, and to always help others when able. My parents were always supportive of me even though I went through many phases of dreams. My childhood dream to be a ballerina came true through much dedication and perseverance. Attending 4 to 6 days a week of training taught me dedication and to push myself past my limits. I have been honored to dance professionally in a ballet company for five years. All of my experiences have led to who I am today, striving for new goals and always trying to elevate myself. I take each trait and apply to my future goals and who I continue to aspire to be.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Today I am a Licensed Nursing Assistant, currently a Pre-Med Student attending the University of Arizona aspiring to be a physician. I am also a freelance dancer/model. I got to where I am today through many long hours of dedication, staying busy towards my work, and focused on my goals. In high school I attended dance training 4 to 6 days a week after school, while maintaining a positive status in my school work. While dancing professionally, I held two jobs for duel income; six hours in the studio and straight to a second job for five hours more. Today I work 12 hours shifts two to three days a week and work on my schooling opposite. Has it always been easy? No, there have definitely been ups and downs. Work hard, work hard, and enjoy the outcomes. Long hours, working overtime, stress and exhaustion all come with the ups but the outcome is worth it and rewarding. “This too shall pass,” so live in the moment, work hard, and dedicate yourself to your passion, to what you love, and to who you constantly strive to be. I have always wanted to help others whether that be directly such as my new path to medicine, or on the stage helping others hone in to their feelings, letting them escape their world for a while, or leave inspired.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Arizona is known for its sunsets, always the highlight after a hot summer day or cool fall evening. Tucson is a smaller town two hours from phoenix but has some hidden gems. With a visiting friend, I’d say grab your water bottle and hiking boots or sneakers we’re going for a hike! There are so many great hiking spots, Early morning hike, 7 Falls Sabino Canyon trail is a 8.6 mile hike but ends beautiful waterfalls sometimes with giant swimming pools or small streams depending on the weather and season. Tanque Verde Falls is another great hike climbing down into the canyon and over boulders to more beautiful falls and swimming pools. Tumamoc Hill is definitely best in the evening. It offers a great workout with a steep paved climb and beautiful views over the city and surrounding mountains.
We would definitely hit up the local brewery Barrio Brewing Company to enjoy some local beers and sonoran hot dogs. Maybe stop downtown for some late night dancing or stroll down 4th Avenue for some eats, drinks, pool, and music for a little bar hop. While downtown, visit the Barrio which is a collection of old neighborhoods with historic buildings, vintage signs, and hidden sculptures and murals.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
To my parents who have always supported me through every dream, goal, and career path. To each of my dance instructors directors, and choreographers for every opportunity to present myself through my work push past boundaries and become more of myself through the process. To my partner and best friend for supporting me, seeing the highest goals for me, and always pushing me to always aspire for more.

Instagram: sierrasebastian_

Image Credits
Ed Flores

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