Blog Reflection

Taking The Cuban Roots of Salsa class was one of the most exciting but challenging classes I have ever taken. There were people of all ages in my class, but I was the youngest student. We all collaborated together because we would be dancing with each other. Joining this class gave me the opportunity to meet new people. Everyone was very friendly and they helped me become a better dancer.
Through the capstone experience, I became more confident in interacting with others. I was able to communicate with others without feeling shy. I met great people who helped me when I needed the help. I also became confident in dancing salsa. Before, I had no idea how to dance and I felt embarrassed dancing with others in class. I did not like dancing with others because I was always making mistakes and we would go no where. Now, I feel confident dancing with anyone because I know enough to dance a whole song.
I encountered many challenges in dance class. The most difficult challenge was counting in the rhythm of the song. We all needed to know how to count in order to be in the same pace with your partner when dancing. My mentor would say if we can find the 1 then we will be able to count. I could never find the 1. What I did to overcome this challenge is that I listened to many salsa songs and listened for that one beat that was always repeating itself. It took almost the whole semester to learn how to find the 1. Another challenge is that I am too stiff and cannot move my hips. Sometimes I feel like a robot dancing but my mentor said that bending my knees while dancing will help me move my hips more. My mentor was a great help. I would not be able to dance most of the steps if I did not have his help.

Last Day of Salsa Class

Hours Worked: 3
Tuesday was our last day of Salsa Class. We had a small party and we danced. I was practicing with my partner for the Capstone Project. I also recorded a video to show for the English final because I will only be dancing in front of the judges. My mentor was talking to us about the summer class he is going to have but I am not sure if I am going to join the class again. I now know how to find the 1 in salsa songs but I am still having a little trouble counting. Salsa Class is now over and I will be practicing with my partner to prepare for the Capstone Project.
Total Hours: 35