This is a special week here at UNC-Chapel Hill. This is Dancer Recruitment Week! During my freshman year, I got involved with a wonderful organization called Carolina For The Kids. CFTKis the largest student-run philanthropy in North Carolina. CFTK works year-round to raise money and support for the patients and families of UNC Children’s. The organization's headlining event is the UNC Dance Marathon where "dancers" stand for 24-hours to show support for the kids (FTK). Each dancer raises $150 and has the opportunity to participate in CFTK-sponsored fundraising events leading up to the Marathon. I was a dancer my freshman and sophomore year and then decided to join the Publicity committee for my junior and now, my senior year. Becoming a part of CFTK has been an experience I will remember forever. Not only have I been able to attend fun events and make awesome friends, but I have also been able to help make a difference in the lives of the patients and families of UNC Children's. This week I decided that it's the perfect time to tell you all why I dance, in hopes that you will too! (I've also had Bieber Fever since I was 12, so what better way to tell you why I dance FTK than with a little help from the Biebs himself.)

Without further ado, here are 9 reasons why I dance, as told by Justin Bieber song titles:

1. "Company"

With over 2,000 UNC students coming together, there’s no better company you could wish for. It’s inspiring to see students from so many different backgrounds all unite together in support of the patients and families of UNC Children’s. Don’t let a 24 hour marathon intimidate you- good company makes a big difference!

2. "Never Say Never"

Never say you don't think this event is for you because who wouldn't want to hang out at a 24-hour PARTY! UNC Dance Marathon features student performance groups, food, games, dancing, bouncing, laughing, hanging with friends, and supporting the kids. This is truly an experience every UNC student HAS to have at least once before they graduate!

3. "I'll Show You"

All the dance moves you need to know.

4. "Children"

Because it's all for the kids.

5. "Life Is Worth Living"

Yes it is. Becoming a dancer and supporter of CFTK will remind you of the precious things in life. It’s a beautiful reality that you give to yourself by giving to others.

6. "Mark My Words"

Mark my words, you won’t regret your decision. Giving of yourself, whether it be your talents, time, or money, is the most rewarding experience.

7. "U Smile"

You'll smile, that’s for sure. A whole marathon full of dancing, singing, spectating, eating, energy-drinking, socializing, and CFTK spirit will surely bring a smile to your face- one that will last 24 hours.

8. "Purpose"

You could be the reason a child’s parent gets to stay with them another night at the hospital or why they went to bed with a full tummy. You could bring a smile to their face in the playroom or be the cheerleader that they need.

9. "The Feeling"

If you’ve ever been a part of a UNC Dance Marathon before, you know exactly what I’m talking about. “The feeling” you get when you see a year’s hard work revealed in the final minutes. The total is revealed and you almost can’t breathe. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the success of something you love.

So, join me this year. Be a dancer. Make a difference FTK.