At just 16, a Houston teen traded AP classes for an unexpected moment on one of the country’s top ballet stages.

HOUSTON — Sixteen-year-old Aubrey Daniels has taken a remarkable leap in her ballet career, going from Pearland to one of the most prestigious stages in the country.

Back in February, Daniels became the first Houston native in nearly a decade to compete in the renowned Prix de Lausanne in Switzerland. That experience opened unexpected doors.

“I got a lot of different scholarship offers, and I talked to different ballet companies,” Daniels said. “It really opened so many doors. That’s what led to my summer being spent in Boston, and I made so many new connections.”

Now, she’s signed a professional contract with the Boston Ballet’s second company — a rare milestone for someone her age.


A life-changing moment

Daniels said she was “absolutely thrilled” when she got the news.

“I called my mom and I was, like, screaming. And I was so excited,” she said. “It really changed my whole life.”


Training and sacrifice

Her path hasn’t been easy. At just 16, Daniels has been balancing a rigorous training schedule — 20 hours a week at the Vitacca Ballet & School for Dance in Houston — while also keeping up with full-time high school and Advanced Placement classes.

“It just never ends,” she said with a laugh, noting that late-night homework often followed hours of training.

With her move to Boston, Daniels has transitioned to an online school program. She said it’s bittersweet to leave Dawson High School and her friends behind but is grateful for the support she’s received from Pearland ISD teachers.


Family support

Because she is still a minor, her parents will rotate staying with her in Boston. Daniels thanked them for standing by her dream:

“Thank you so much for supporting my journey. I’m so excited for what the future holds.”


Inspiring other dancers

For other young dancers looking up to her, Daniels offered one piece of advice:

“My main thing is dream big. My mom always taught me that you have to set ambitious goals for yourself, and that’s how you will go far.”