November 10th, 2016
My "tipping point" for pursuing this job was, following an extended period of discontent, a catastrophic incident that threatened to upend my very comfortable, though not very satisfying, position in life. Recognizing the need for drastic and immediate change, once I found the job listing for Arthur Murray, I pursued the dance instructor position with all the vigor I could muster.
I'd have to say the most rewarding aspect of working with students would be the reflection of myself I see in others. Seeing a student feel relieved of the stress of everyday life after a dance session, or work through a difficult time in his or her life through dance, or achieving a new milestone in their dance journey reminds me of those same feelings I experienced when I was in their shoes. It's a humbling experience, seeing yourself in the people you're teaching, and has a profound impact on helping me appreciate my own growth as well.
The best thing about the team I work with is their unabashed willingness to help others succeed and to feel comfortable from the very first interaction.
I would describe the school I work in as a power-house of very skilled dancers and an epicenter of activity and excitement during the day.
Accomplishments are measured in a variety of ways, some more personal than others. On the whole, I'd have to say that obtaining my degree from Penn State would be my most proud moment. But in another sense, I'd also say that successfully traveling the country a number of times with little more than a backpack would also be a personal milestone for me.
A fact that one might not guess about me might be my passion for the flow arts, including, but not limited to, spinning flaming hula hoops through the air.
Before Arthur Murray, I worked as an assistant manager in a small-town tourist trap t-shirt shop.