In a volatile industry where many people don't have back-up plans, Galen Hooks is set. She was able to complete Penn State's online bachelor's degree in law and society while dancing and choreographing on location at video and movie shoots around the world.

"I spend so much time in planes, on tour buses, and in hotel rooms that going to school online was really the only way I could have gotten a degree," she says. "I know that I have the ability to learn on my own, and I plan on continuing to study. My education will impact my future because I am confident that I can overcome challenges."

Galen says some of that confidence comes from her professors, who were eager to communicate individually with her — despite the distance. "As a student I enjoy being pushed to improve and I enjoy feedback. As an online student, I feared that I might have to sacrifice these qualities because of the separation of teacher and student. Fortunately, I had professors that were eager to interact."

Galen grew up about an hour outside Hollywood and appeared on Star Search at age 7. From that moment on, she knew she wanted to become a professional dancer. She did just that and has toured with Janet Jackson and appeared in numerous music videos and movies.

"I've been to Africa, Brazil, you name it," she says. "When I graduated, I realized what an amazing accomplishment I had achieved by earning a bachelor's while working. With my education, I know that I have a strong base for a back up plan, should I ever need one.

While Galen is focusing mostly on dancing while she's still young, she has also been using her legal knowledge as a volunteer with dancers' unions. "Dancers are on the lower end of the totem pole compared to actors and writers, but we're also a very necessary part of movies, TV shows, and music videos," she says. "I've been working to get our rates higher and get us higher status in the entertainment industry."