September 14, 2009
To whom it may concern,
I am writing this letter to express the profound influence Academy of Performing Arts and Kevin Patterson have made in my life. I first came to the studio at age 17 and quickly became inspired and nourished by the professional and energetic staff. I utilized all the different dance classes they had to offer, and developed a diverse repetua that shaped my dancer identity. I then progressed and had the honor of becoming a scholarship student which educated me on the professional dance world. The scholarship program equipped me to audition and acquire an agent in Los Angeles. As I grew as a dancer, I became an apprentice under Kevin Patterson, learning how to teach a proper Jazz class. I eventually took over the class and formed a solid following for years thereafter. I branched out to teach at many dance studios and choreograph for several dance companies. This skill of teaching turned out to be one of the most valuable tools I have in my current career
After achieving my Masters in Public Health and a Registered Dietitian license, I started working for Northrop Grumman as a Corporate Wellness Coordinator. At this job I teach nutrition/exercise seminars, do private counseling sessions, perform screenings such as blood glucose/cholesterol/body fat/osteoporosis/, and provide many other health related services for the engineers. I also work at Alvarado Hospital as a clinical dietitian. The skill set to be an educator, and encourage change, was created through my experience at APA. I can boldly state that if it weren’t for APA, I would not contain this priceless edge that has accelerated my personal and career growth.
It is advantageous that APA be adequately supported so that it could continue to have such a valuable influence on others, just as it has done for me.
Genuinely,
Miriam Jirari MPH, R.D.
Northrop Grumman Healthwaves Program Coordinator
Phone: 858-514-9136 (M/W/F) or 858-618-3210(T/Th)
Fax: (858)514-9228