The Joy of Teaching: A 20-Year Journey

From the moment I stepped into my first dance class as a teacher at 21, I knew I had found my calling. Twenty years later, the love for teaching has only deepened. Teaching has been a constant in my life, shaping who I am and what I do. Whether it's guiding tiny ballerinas through their first plié or choreographing award-winning competition solos, each experience has added to my understanding and passion for dance education.

After a few years of teaching and transitioning out of high school, I realized that my own physical activity had diminished. Gone were the days of thrice-weekly dance classes and daily cheerleading practices. I needed something to fill that void, something that would keep me moving and give me the same exhilarating rush I felt when I danced. That's when a friend introduced me to the gym, and I was instantly hooked. The endorphins from a good cardio session were almost as uplifting as dancing.

It was during this time that I discovered Zumba—a magical blend of cardio and dance. The idea that I could get my heart pumping while grooving to music was too perfect to resist. Naturally, I became a certified Zumba instructor and spent years sharing that joy with others. Eventually, I decided to take things into my own hands, choreographing my own style of dance cardio, which I called Heartbeat Rhythm & Dance Cardio. This unique approach blends movements from various dance styles with the hottest tracks from all decades. I believe that when people recognize the music, they find it easier to remember the dance patterns, making the experience both fun and accessible. To this day, I still teach this class and love every minute of it.

But my teaching journey doesn't stop at dance. After graduating from the Designer Development Program at Made Institute in Philadelphia, I was invited to teach their Sewing 4 class, which focuses on working with stretch knit fabrics and mastering the serger and cover stitch machines. Teaching sewing has been another rewarding experience, allowing me to share my love for creating beautiful, functional designs with others.

Through these years, I've come to realize that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge; it's about passion, patience, and the ability to communicate effectively. Not everyone can teach, but for those of us who love it, it's a true calling. Whether it's dance, fitness, or sewing, I'm grateful for every opportunity to share what I love with others. If you're interested in joining one of my classes, whether it's dance or sewing, feel free to reach out—I'd love to help you discover your passion too!