How Can I Stand Out at a Combine This Summer? Tips to Make a Lasting Impression at College Dance Combines
Learn how to make a lasting impression at college dance combines with these 8 proven strategies from dance professionals. This comprehensive guide covers everything from researching programs and dressing appropriately to building genuine connections with coaches and following up effectively. Perfect for dancers preparing for summer combines who want to stand out beyond just their technical skills.
The Question I Keep Getting...
“How can I stand out at a college dance combine?”
It’s a fair question. Combines are exciting—but they can also be overwhelming. You're surrounded by talented dancers and want to leave knowing you made an impression.
Here’s the truth: it’s not just about dancing well. It’s about being prepared, present, and intentional—with your movement, your mindset, and your interactions.
Let’s break down some real, actionable tips to help you show up with confidence and walk away proud.
Tip #1 — Treat It Like a Job Interview (Because It Kind of Is)
Think of a combine as your first impression on a potential employer. Would you show up to a job interview without researching the company first? Hopefully not.
💡Know who’s in the room.
Look into which programs will be attending. What’s their style? Where does their team sit in the university (athletics, band, marketing, club)? Do they travel? Compete?
But don’t just show up and ask surface-level questions you could’ve Googled. Instead, aim for meaningful, human connection. Ask:
“What’s been your favorite memory as a coach?”
“What’s the biggest challenge for incoming rookies?”
“What’s your ‘why’ for coaching?”
These spark genuine dialogue and that’s what makes you memorable.
Tip #2 — Be Open to New Programs
Some dancers walk in with blinders on, focused only on one or two schools. But some of the best outcomes I’ve seen? They came from unexpected connections.
You’re not committing to a school by talking to a coach. You’re exploring options and that’s smart.
💡What to do:
Introduce yourself to multiple coaches even if you hadn’t considered their programs before. The dance world is small so if a coach has a great interaction with you, they are more likely than not going to bring it up to their other friends who coach as well.
Stay open. Trust your gut if something feels aligned.
Be equally present and respectful with every interaction.
The right fit might surprise you!
Tip #3 — Don’t Just Dance. Perform.
You’re not there just to execute the combo. You’re there to showcase the best version of you, show confidence, and own your presence.
💡What to do:
Make eye contact! Command attention from the first count.
Find small moments to shine—a hair flip, a unique trick during improv, or even a subtle wink always help dancers stand out.
If you mess up? Recover like a pro. Coaches aren’t looking for perfection—they’re looking for resilience.
Tip #4 — Dress the Part for Each Style
Your outfit can say a lot before you ever start dancing. Showing up dressed appropriately for each style shows that you’re prepared, professional, and aware of what’s expected.
💡What to do:
Hip Hop? Bring the right energy and the right outfit: tennis shoes, baggy shirt, loose pants.
Game Day? Don’t forget your poms if asked—hair down, performance-ready look.
Jazz or Technique-Based Styles? Hair pulled out of your face, tight-fitting clothes that allow coaches to see your lines, and jazz shoes or pirouettes.
The goal isn’t to be trendy, it’s to be respectful and intentional. Coaches are watching to see how you show up. Dress like you take it seriously.
Tip #5 — Be Coachable and Engaged
Coaches want dancers who learn, not just perform. Your ability to take feedback is just as important as your execution.
💡What to do:
Listen visibly—nod, stay engaged, absorb corrections.
Apply feedback quickly, even if it wasn’t directed at you.
Step forward confidently—but not at the expense of others.
And remember: they’re watching you even when you’re not dancing.
Tip #6 — Energy Off the Floor Matters
Your behavior between combos is just as important as what you do during them.
💡What to do:
Be encouraging. Be kind. Be someone others would want as a teammate.
Say thank you to instructors, staff, and volunteers.
Stay off your phone. Be present—even when it’s not “your turn.”
Dance ability gets you in the room. Character keeps you in the running.
Tip #7 — Make Genuine Connections
It’s not just what you ask—it’s how you connect. Don’t treat every interaction like a transaction. Coaches remember people, not robots.
💡Instead of jumping straight to: “When are auditions?” or “Do you compete?”
💡Try asking: “What do you love most about your team culture?” or “What qualities do you look for in rookies?” or “What’s your coaching philosophy?”
These questions create connection—and help you learn what matters most to them.
Tip #8 — Follow Up With Purpose
The combine isn’t the end—it’s a starting point. A thoughtful follow-up email can jog a coach’s memory and keep you top of mind.
💡What to do:
Reference something specific from your conversation:
“Hi Coach [Last Name], I really appreciated our conversation about [their coaching ‘why’ or team culture] at [Event Name]. It gave me so much insight into your program, and I’d love to stay connected…”Keep it brief, specific, and authentic.
Additionally add a photo of yourself from the event in your outfit and number so they can better recall you.
Coaches meet hundreds of dancers. A personal touch goes a long way.
Standing out at a combine isn’t just about the most impressive tricks or cleanest turns. It’s about how you show up as a dancer, communicator, and teammate.
The dancers who succeed are the ones who bring heart, humility, and presence.
And if you want support navigating it all, Studio 2 Stadium is here to help. Whether it’s refining your approach, prepping your materials, or building your strategy—we’ve got your back.
Let’s get you in the room—and remembered.