Education:
Background:
In
1980 I graduated from URI with a double major in French and Spanish
and a minor in Latin. Throughout my college career I was most
emphatic that I did not want nor would I ever teach
languages at the high school level. Imagine my surprise when,
twenty years and five career changes later, I found myself at
Rocky Hill, teaching languages at the high school level. I've
worked as a bartender, hot-line counselor, travel agent, translator
and martial arts instructor, and they all somehow seemed to come
together when I started teaching teenagers. But here's the real
surprise I love it! Whether it was kismet or coincidence that
led me here, I'm very happy that this is where I ended up. When
surprised by life, there's only one thing to say: C'est la vie!
Philosophy
of Education:
There
is the saying in the martial arts world: The teacher has not
taught until the student has learned. This is my guiding philosophy
when it comes to teaching. Whether I am teaching the intricacies
and beauty of the French language, or a traditional martial arts
weapon form, it all boils down to the same thing. It is my responsibility
to share my knowledge in ways that each and every student can
understand. In order to do this, I am challenged every day to
be resourceful and creative. This can be frustrating, as well
as daunting, but it is also incredibly and inexplicably rewarding.
Interests
and Activities:
In
1992 I started training in the martial arts. From the onset, I
knew I wanted to be a Black Belt. And with enormous amounts self-discipline,
hard work and sheer stubbornness, I earned my first Black Belt
in Oki Ryu Kempo in 1997. But that was just the beginning. I have
since earned a Black Belt in Shinko-ryu Kenpo, as well as advanced
ranks in Jeet Kune Do and the Filipino art of Kali. I am an instructor
at my husband's school, The Derderian Academy of Martial Arts,
where I also continue training, preparing for my third degree
Black Belt.
Return to Rocky Hill Home Page
updated
March 17, 2005
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