Jennifer 's parents were born in Puerto Rico, but did not meet until both came to America. Jennifer took singing and dancing lessons from age 5. At the age of 7, young Jennifer went on her tour - around New York City with her dance class. At the age of 16, Jennifer got a little break with a bit part in the film ''My Little Girl'' (1986). After that, she briefly worked in a law office. During this time, she continued dance classes at night. At 18, she left home because her mother didn't want J. Lo to pursue dance as a career.