Today we’d like to introduce you to Cathleen Dower

Hi Cathleen, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?

I started out teaching Irish dance at a local dance studio, which I really enjoyed. After four years however the studio owners were retiring and it was at this time that I made the decision to strike out on my own, and find space to rent, as I had built a small following.

Within that time, we grew from roughly 15 students to now double our numbers and we continue to grow. However, there were some setbacks including a global pandemic and having to move space a few times.

I’m so grateful that I never gave up and the school continues to grow along with myself on this journey as an entrepreneur.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

To be honest, it hasn’t been a smooth road at all, a year after I started teaching at the local studio, my Mother passed away from Ovarian cancer and that deeply affected me as we were very close.

There were so many times I wanted to just quit and give up, but then I remembered why I started teaching dance in the first place, and how much joy it brought me and helped me get through so many tough times in my life. Not to mention, all the amazing people I have met and friends I have made over the years through dance. I wanted to give back to my community and share with others that joy and passion I have for Irish dance.

Of course, the pandemic certainly didn’t make things easier for business owners either, thank God for online classes and Zoom! I did lose about half my students during that time and slowly had to rebuild again to a significant number of students just to stay afloat.

As an entrepreneur starting from nothing it certainly has been quite the learning experience, to say the least, and it’s not for the faint of heart, but I wouldn’t change it and I’ve met so many supportive and amazing people along the way, which kept me going when I wanted to give up. I am grateful for all that I have learned on this journey and for all the amazing opportunities and people that have crossed my path along the way.

We’ve been impressed with The Fitzgerald School of Irish Dance , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

The Fitzgerald School of Irish Dance is based in Old Bridge, New Jersey and is named in honor of my Mother, Maryellen Fitzgerald Dower.

We offer classes in traditional Irish dance for both adults and children starting at age 3. We offer many opportunities for students to perform and compete as well as classes for those looking to stay fit and for recreational purposes.

I also am the first certified US based Reel Robics instructor, which I am very proud to be a part of the Reel Robics team. Reel Robics classes are Irish dance fitness classes that are strictly geared towards adults and combine the footwork of traditional Irish dance with lots of arm movements for a full body workout.

I feel what sets my school apart from the rest is that when you join the Fitzgerald school you join a community of like minded individuals with a common goal to master the beautiful art form of Irish dance. Everyone here is so supportive of each other and many have made lasting friendships and memories over the years.

I want readers to know that you don’t have to be Irish to take up Irish dancing, it is an art form that has its roots in Ireland, but it has been celebrated the world over and that is our goal to bring it to a wider audience so that they can enjoy this beautiful art form as much as we do!

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?

Yes, my advice would be to find someone who is already doing what you would like to do and go seek them out as a mentor, see if you can sit down with them and have a conversation. Find out if they are willing and open to guide you in your pursuits or even if they could just offer up some helpful words of wisdom. This has pretty much been my strategy when it comes to finding a mentor.

As far as networking goes, I try to find groups that align with my interests and goals and where I know I could contribute and make connections with like minded individuals.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.fitzgeraldsirishdance.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Fitz_School_Of_Irish_Dance
• Facebook: https:/facebook.com/FitzgeraldSchoolOfIrishDance