Professional Background
1. What inspired you to become a dance coach?
I’ve always loved dancing, even before I fully realized it. In high school, I began to explore that passion more intentionally through the Santa Barbara High School Dance Department. That experience made me fall in love with dance and it gave me a sense of purpose, teamwork, and self-expression. When the opportunity to coach presented itself, I knew I wanted to recreate that same space for others, only better. I wanted to build an environment that reflects the support, growth, and love I experienced from my teammates.
2. How long have you been coaching, and where have you coached before?
I’ve been coaching for 2 years now, and this is my first official coaching position. Before that, I served in leadership positions where I worked closely with the SBHS coaches on choreography and mentoring other team members.
3. What is your dance training and performance background?
Most of my formal dance training came through the SBHS Dance Program and being a member of the dance team. I trained in multiple styles and performed in a variety of shows and competitions.
4. Do you specialize in any particular dance styles?
I primarily specialize in hip hop, but I also love jazz funk and I’m trying to train in other styles to expand my versatility.
5. What achievements or awards have you or your teams earned?
We’ve earned 1st and 3rd place at the Sharp International Knott’s Berry Farm State competition.
Personal Connection to Dance
6. What do you love most about coaching high school dancers?
What I love most about coaching these dancers is being able to create a space where students have the freedom to find themselves. For many of them, dance is an escape from whatever they’re going through outside of practice. It gives them a chance to breathe, have fun, and just be themselves.
7. What is your coaching philosophy or approach to teaching dance?
My coaching philosophy is rooted in creating a supportive environment that encourages creativity, hard work, and help grow confidence for our dancers both on and off the dance floor.
8. What do you hope to instill in your dancers beyond technical skills?
Beyond dance, I hope my students learn to believe in themselves and stand up for what’s right, even when it’s hard. Dance teaches discipline and strength, but I also want it to teach empathy and the power of community. I want them to know their voices matter and to use them with courage and compassion. In today’s world, leading with kindness is more important than ever, so I hope they carry that mindset into every space they walk into.
Fun and Personal Details
9. What’s your favorite memory from coaching this team?
My favorite memories always come from competitions and off-campus performances. There’s something so special about seeing the team bond outside of school, watching them be inspired by other dancers, and just genuinely enjoying each other’s company. Those moments build trust and friendship, and it’s so rewarding to be a part of that.
10. Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of dance?
Outside of coaching, I still take dance classes when I can because I genuinely just love dance. I also enjoy spending time with my family, traveling and trying new food.
11. Is there a fun fact or interesting story about your dance journey?
One of my favorite stories to share is that I actually started on the dance team as an alternate. I had no formal training, just dancing at family parties to banda and cumbia with my parents. I didn’t even fully understand counts. But during my first year on the dance team, I met Coach Q, who was a senior at the time. She believed in me so much and gave me the confidence I needed to keep going. That moment truly changed everything for me in dedicating myself to dance. Now, being able to coach alongside her feels like a full-circle moment I’ll always be grateful for.
Team-Specific Information
12. How did you get involved with this particular dance team?
I continued to stay involved by choreographing here and there for the team. Eventually, that connection turned into a full-time coaching opportunity, and I’ve been here ever since.
13. What makes this team special to you?
This team helped me get through some of the toughest times in high school, and I’ve seen it do the same for other students. It’s more than just a team, it’s a safe space where people can thrive.
14. What are your goals for this team in the coming year?
Dance and perform as much as we can!
Educational and Personal Growth
15. What advice do you give students who want to pursue dance after high school?
Take as many classes as you can and explore different styles! You’ll meet so many incredible people in the dance community, so I encourage all of them to learn from different people and make an effort to keep growing. Versatility is key, but so is finding your own style.
16. What’s the most rewarding part of being a coach for a high school team?
The most rewarding part is seeing the personal and collective growth of the team. Each year, there’s a moment for each dancer when they perform in a way we’ve never seen before, it’s like they unlock something inside themselves. It’s truly a one of a kind experience, seeing them grow into themselves, those are the real wins.
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