My professional fitness and group exercise career came after years as a dancer and dance instructor and coach. In 2003, I received my BA in English for secondary education from MacMurray College and taught high school students for 4 years. After having children and moving to a new city, I joined a gym and fell in love with Zumba Fitness. I received my instructor license for Zumba Fitness in 2011, and later that year, I completed my AFAA group exercise certfication and Aqua Zumba instructor license. As a former dancer, I was also interested in Pilates, and received personal training to teach mat Pilates. In the months following my initial certifications, I was hired as an instructor at FitClub in Springfield, Illinois. With three locations in the city, I am able to teach a variety of classes throughout the week. It is a joy to teach group fitness and help others achieve better health.