Gilbert Rodriguez, Audio Visual Technician, Scripps
I’m Gil from Scripps College and I am the A/V tech for the college. I enjoy my work, the challenges it brings, and the opportunity to interact with the students, faculty and staff that make Scripps such a nice to play work. I have been an employee for almost 3 years at the colleges and for some reason had never heard of the Dancing with the Claremont Stars. I can honestly say I didn’t think I would be doing something like ballroom dancing, the idea had never crossed my mind. I normally just dance whatever I feel like with whatever I’m given to dance to, which I can do, but to be ballroom dancing was a much different experience. Lots of people wanted me to join and see what I can do, so I became a little curious about ballroom dancing that way. I’ve seen many dances been done but never tried them myself. I was very nervous the first few rehearsals and a bit unsure if I could pick up the dances. However as I got comfortable with the dance it became more fun and normal to me. Both of my dance coaches were wonderful and very helpful in teaching me the waltz and the different kinds of techniques that can be used. The whole experience of Dancing with the Claremont Stars has given me a different outlook on ballroom dancing and has made me want to know more as well as all kinds of other dance styles. I didn’t think I would enjoy it as much as I did and I guess you can say I’m all jazzed on dance now, so I look forward to taking what I’ve learned from this experience and applying it to my personal life and introduce myself to a new world of options with the skills I’ve acquired. Thank you to my dance coaches, Elissa Ginsburg and Emily Seaman, again for working with me so well, and my dance partner Emily Seaman for being patient and understanding while trying to help me learn the right things to do, and for making me look good on the dance floor I’m sure. Last but not least thank you to the Dancing with the Claremont Stars committee for given me a chance to participate in the wonderful event.
