Kaitlyn Fitzgerald

Updated Thu. Nov. 13 2008 11:03 PM ET

Voted off Top 10

Kaitlyn Fitzgerald's motto, "Everything happens for a reason," may explain why this skilled dancer made it into the So You Think You Can Dance Canada Top 20. Dancing since the age of two doing ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical and hip-hop at various schools, including the National Ballet of Canada, dance has always been a part of Kaitlyn's life. Kaitlyn's dance style of choice is contemporary, and she's excited about impressing the judges with her skill. "I dance with passion, and it's always from the heart."

Hailing from Loretto, Ontario, Kaitlyn is proud of her roots. "Loretto is a very small, close-knit community," she says. Aside from graduating from Robert F. Hall Catholic Secondary School, which she cites as the best day of her life, Kaitlyn is most proud of participating in the Solo Seal performance for the Royal Academy of Dance.

When she found out she'd made it to the So You Think You Can Dance Canada Top 20, Kaitlyn was shocked and surprised, but enthusiastic about showing the judges more of her unique personality. And inspired by her mother's constant encouragement - and cheered on by her family and friends - Kaitlyn has a strong support group helping her along the way.

Although competing against other dancers while adapting to different styles of dance has been challenging, Kaitlyn was surprised by her fellow Top 20 competitors. "The people are all so amazing, even though it's a competition."

Kaitllyn aspires to have a similar career path to Mandy Moore, who choreographs on the U.S. version So You Think You Can Dance. "So many people told her she would never succeed, but now she is happy and successful." Keeping it all in the family, Kaitlyn says if she could perform for any one artist, it would be Mia Michaels, who also choreographs on the U.S. version So You Think You Can Dance.

With her heart and soul in the competition, Kailtyn is eager to tear up the stage. Her advice to other So You Think You Can Dance Canada hopefuls? "Follow your dreams, believe in yourself, and never give up."