Graceful and Elegant are just two of many words one could use to describe this week’s Campus Celebrity: Justice Thornton. Keep reading to learn more about this gorgeous dancer.
What year are you?
I am a junior.
What’s your major?
I am a biology major with a concentration in biomedical sciences and an education minor.
What’s your favorite thing about campus?
My favorite thing about campus is the atmosphere. I’ve never been part of a community where being different was so warmly welcomed.
What’s your favorite thing to do on campus?
We are all so blessed to attend such a beautiful campus. So my favorite thing to do on campus is to walk around the bay right before the sunsets. It’s a great place to clear your head and find some peace.
In what ways are you involved on campus?
I am the 5th floor RA in RHO, a spectrum mentor, and the president of the lovely South Florida All Stars Dance Team.
What inspired you to create the South Florida All Stars?
I’ve been dancing since my sophomore year in high school and I knew that it was something I wanted to do throughout college as well. Once I was accepted to USFSP, I considered commuting to Tampa for their phenomenal modern dance program but I was nervous that I wouldn’t make it in after I didn’t receive an email back from the director. So my cousin, who’s also a current student, informed me that I could start my own club. I thought the idea was scary because I didn’t really have that much leadership experience or dance experience, but by the grace of God it worked with the help of some awesome people!
How has creating SFAS impacted your leadership?
Creating the SFAS has impacted my leadership skills because it made me realize that I could actually create this crazy vision that seemed so outlandish and farfetched. But with hard work and a great support system, I accomplished something that I’m seriously passionate about. It’s allowed me to care more about the personal growth of others and in return, it’s shown me a lot about myself throughout the journey.
What do you do when not at school?
I feel like I’m always at school! When I’m not, I’m either spending time with friends or family.
Favorite color?
My favorite color is green. It’s fitting since I’m a bull!
What is your favorite book and movie?
I honestly don’t like to read unless I have to, I know that sounds awful. However, I would have to say my favorite book would have to be anything written by Jane Austen. My favorite movie would have to be the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. Specifically the first one, but I still love them all!
What’s something on your bucket list?
Hmm, something on my bucket list…. I would have to say, is to open my own dance studio.
Favorite musician or group?
My favorite artist would have to be Lana Del Rey, hands down. My favorite group is One Direction even though Zayn left and broke my heart.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
It’s hard to say because there are so many things that I want to do in my field. In 10 years I hope to see myself as a Genetic Counselor working in the hospital with families that are at risk of having children with genetic disorders or other health impairments, all while working as a Biology professor. I also want to dabble in forensics as a DNA analyst and participate in cell and genetic research. There’s just a lot of stuff I want to accomplish in my lifetime. But I can’t forget about having a loving family and a shoe closet. The shoe closet is top priority lol.
What made you choose USFSP?
It wasn’t too close or too far away from home and it’s right by the beach!
What advice do you give incoming freshman?
I would tell them that getting involved and having fun is important but don’t forget to put your academics first. It’s great to have fun and socialize but don’t let your schoolwork slip!
Any additional information you would like the audience to know?
I like hot sauce on just about everything I consume and educated men in suits are my kryptonite.
God bless!