Please share with our readers a little bit of your non-martial arts background professionally and personally.

Four years ago I came to the United States from my home country of Russia. Since I was a little girl, I was always fascinated with the English language. The passion to study English and the love of children made the choice of my profession very easy - I became an English teacher following in the steps of my mother who taught math. While studying at the Pedagogical University for my degree, I enjoyed doing research on the topic of the national American character. At that time I didn't dream I would have the opportunity to study that topic through first hand experience and be an international student in NJ!

Which martial arts have you studied to date and for how long?

Since I started training in PAMA in March of 2009, I have studied Jun Fan, Kali, Women's Martials Arts and Silat. I have also tried MMA and Boxing classes which I'd love to attend more often.

What first turned you on to martial arts and what made you chose to make it a part of your life?

Two years ago I met my boyfriend, Tim Crea, who has been training in PAMA since 2007. Little did I know that one day martial arts would become a powerful part of my life too. I remember him after every class being so excited and eager to show me the techniques he learned from Sifu Rick and the importance of knowing them. This exposure to the arts was all I needed.

How did you hear about PAMA? What influenced you to join PAMA?

Last spring PAMA held the annual open house for those who were interested in martial arts. That day for the first time I entered the doors of PAMA, and I knew at once that was my life changing moment, the beginning of a life long journey in the martial arts.

What do you most enjoy about your training at PAMA? And which arts do you enjoy the most?

There are many aspects that I enjoy about my training in PAMA. I love the fact that all the instructors are extremely supportive and encouraging. Sifu Rick always makes sure that all the students' questions are answered, and he also knows drills we have the most trouble with. The variety of the arts and the depth we've been taught in each of them are impressive. It's not only the physical aspect of the learning that is important, but spiritual and healing is crucial as well. Although I love training in Jun Fan and Kali the most, it is the Women's Martial Arts class that I find very special. When we, the ladies, are all together in that cozy blue room training under personalized attention of Lao Si Mary Jo, there is a different energy and atmosphere of learning and helping each other. I'm very happy there's such a class in PAMA that prepares us for all the arts we study in great detail.

What do you see as some of your goals in the martial arts and in your life in general?

As it is now, I see martial arts and its philosophy influencing my life on all levels for my own benefit and people around me. The more I grasp for the knowledge that is deep within the martial arts, the more I find inner peace and harmony in this hectic world.

Is there anything else that you would like to add?

There is one more thing attracting me to PAMA that I didn't mention. The friendship with the people who train there is irreplaceable. I anticipate meeting them to train hard or just joke around. Thanks to Sifu Rick and all of the instructors for making PAMA such an unique place for training the body and mind and gathering together good people!