Working at weddings had never been part of Tali Aires’ original plan. Six months ago, Aires, an alumna, had a dream familiar to many Los Angeles dancers: She would perform commercially, find gigs where she could, perhaps teach a bit on the side. Read more...

Photo: UCLA alumna Tali Aires started dancing with Karmagraphy, a Los Angeles-based Indian fusion entertainment company, this past September. Aires has a dedicated time for learning Indian culture during her rehearsals and said her world arts and cultures studies gave her the foundation she needed to take on cultural dances like Bharatanatyam and Bollywood. (Kathy Chen/Daily Bruin)

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays comprised of carpools to internship. Tuesdays and Thursdays – same lectures, shared studying, all topped with a grueling dance practice lasting well into the early hours of the morning. Read more...

Photo: Fourth-year communication studies student Brenda Lienh (left) met fourth-year sociology student William Lam (right) as novice dancers in 2013. Now in a relationship, they are also dancers for Samahang Modern . (Keila Mayberry/Daily Bruin staff)