My love for dance began at the age of 5 years old. Formally trained in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, and hip hop, I understand the commitment it takes to become a great dancer. My passion has allowed me to compete at a very young age in these disciplines as well as begin dancing in the ballroom world at age 14, inspired after watching my first cotillion performance at a Sweet 16. It was also in these teenage years where I learned the club dances like salsa, merengue, bachata and hustle and started working as a dance instructor at local parties, inviting guests to learn to dance on the floor. Additionally, I started choreographing dances for many sweet 16s at this time which allowed me to exercise my creativity with beat and lyric.
At 19, I began competing in collegiate ballroom dance in latin, rhythm, smooth, and standard ballroom. I studied the technique of each style and went through rigorous training and coaching to master my movement and improve my dance. Apart from competing, I continued to teach group classes on the different ballroom dances, honing my communication skills effectively and discovering ways to successfully help the newest person learn how to dance.
My greatest enjoyment comes from watching the progress of students and sharing in the fun that dance uniquely offers.
Advice: When learning something new, give grace to yourself. Laugh it off. Even at the elite level, you will always be a work in progress.
