CoPA Alumna Kavita Rao’s Multifaceted Career in the Arts Dancer, choreographer, educator, and entrepreneur, Kavita Rao credits Chapman’s community and curriculum for helping her navigate the ever-changing arts industry.

Alumna Kavita Rao (‘05) studied Dance and Communications with a PR emphasis and continues to use the skills she learned at Chapman University in her career as a professional dancer, choreographer, educator, artistic director, and business owner today.

Kavita has experienced many professional evolutions throughout her career. After graduating from Chapman in 2005, she used her alumni connections to book her first LA dance job and secure her first agent. Upon entering the commercial dance world, versatility proved to be her greatest asset. Combined skills in event production, communication, and diverse dance training helped her stand out. Kavita approached every opportunity as a learning experience to expand her toolkit, discovering how to turn rejection into motivation and pushing to carve her own unique path.

Kavita shares that Chapman’s dance program prepared her for the professional world by teaching her time management and work ethic – transferable skills that dancers can bring into any career. “Balancing earning a major and minor with extra credits while working jobs gave me real-world discipline.” She developed resilience and the ability to perform under pressure, both of which are critical in entrepreneurship. 

Kavita is proud of the education she has received from Chapman’s College of Performing Arts and how the program has grown and expanded over the years, developing a strong reputation and lasting connections in the arts community. She is grateful to have been part of a program that fosters artistry, professionalism, and community. 

Kavita stated, “The Chapman community has been a constant source of support throughout my career,” and now, she likes to give back by hiring Chapman students and alumni for her entertainment company, Karmagraphy, and other professional projects.

With a career in the arts that has taken many different forms, Kavita offers this advice to those considering a similar career: 

“Carve your own path: be inspired by others, but discover how your unique artistry and voice fit into this multifaceted industry. The arts offer a wide range of career paths. Longevity is possible with adaptability. And lastly, diversify your skill set—explore every opportunity, you never know what will ignite your passion.”