Tell us a little about your life outside of PAMA.

Currently, I am a research scientist at Bristol-Myers Squibb in Hopewell, NJ. I work in the biologics research area supporting in process development analytics. I have been there for seven years and have watched the department and company grow the biologics pipeline displaying the quality, development, and research necessary to be successful in the industry.

Outside of work, I take great pleasure in cooking, playing musical instruments, and participating in other sporting activities. I enjoy cooking dishes from all around the world. Lately, I have been focusing on the Chinese and Indian regions. My musical interests are far reaching. I play the guitar, some piano, and percussion. Some of my favorite musical influences are Steely Dan, Gorillaz, Chick Corea, and Pink Floyd, just to name a few. Other physical activities that I have fun with are playing softball and volleyball in the company leagues, pick up football games, and bike riding.

As a member of PAMA, tell us what first motivated you to begin training here?

I have always been interested in martial arts, but somehow, the path eluded me. I have two younger brothers that trained in Tae Kwon Do for years, yet I was never really drawn to the style. About a year ago, I had a little more free time on my hands and was looking for something else to challenge me physically. The same old work out routine was not working for me anymore. I asked my brother if he had any ideas on what to do and he suggested PAMA as a school that may interest me. One afternoon, we stopped by the school to see what it had to offer. Max gave us the tour and that Saturday I took my first trial Jun Fan class. Immediately, I knew it was something that I had to do to continue developing myself, physically and mentally. I was really drawn to the openness of the Jeet Kune Do style and the ability to learn so many different styles.

How does your martial arts training relate to your life outside of PAMA?

There are many parallels between martial arts and life outside of PAMA. Skills such as courage, perseverance, flexibility, and a positive mental attitude are relative and necessary to be successful in and out of the class. These are life skills that I believe will benefit anyone in any situation.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about beginning to train in Martial Arts?

The first thing would be to immerse yourself in the philosophy, history, and lifestyle. Martial arts is something that must be done full heartedly, with a deeper level of commitment. Also, be prepared to push yourself mentally and physically to excel. There can be no advancement if one is lackadaisical and unwilling step out of one's comfort zone. Finally, be open to instruction and take as many styles as possible. Each style gives specific skills and conditioning. Only when combined, does one completely understand and achieve all that martial arts has to offer.

What are some of your future goals in both the martial arts and your life?

A future goal in martial arts would be to continue to excel and become the best I can be mentally and physically. I understand that there is no finish line, that martial arts is a habit or lifestyle one must walk in order to reach a higher level of being. Right now, I am focusing on passing my 8 month Jun Fan test to being taking Jun Fan Intermediate level classes. I am also gearing up for the Kali test to transition out of the beginner's group.

On a personal side, I am looking forward to continuing my education. I will be applying to Lehigh University's Biochemical Engineering program with hopes of starting in the spring semester.

How long have you been training at PAMA, what styles do you train in, and what is the most important thing that PAMA gives to you?

I have been training at PAMA for thirteen months now. I train in Jun Fan, Kali, Silat, MMA, and boxing. I am looking to add more Muay Thai training to my regiment.

The most important thing that PAMA gives me is a place to let out stress in a constructive way, hone mental and physical skills, and meet interesting people from all walks of life.

Any other comments?

I would like to thank Sifu Rick and all the other instructors for being such a powerful inspiration in my life. Thank you!