Real People
Hip-hop instructor Shannon Najera Compiled by Breanna Fields Photos by April Massirio
T
urning her passion into a parttime profession, 21-year-old Shannon Najera works as a hip-hop instructor while also studying business at Bakersfield College. Within the past year, she has played an important role in the lives of students attending the after-school performing arts magnet program at Thorner Elementary. She not only provides an outlet for expression, but Najera mentors and encourages her students to never give up. Previously a tap and cheer instructor, Najera has undoubtedly become an inspiration for local youth in their dance-related pursuits.
How did you get your start as a hip-hop instructor?
I’ve always taught hip-hop here and there and made up routines for my high school cheer squad. I knew it was something that I had wanted to do for a long time. with an easy routine and take them through the dance step by step until they get it. I always advise my students to ask questions so they don’t get left behind. When I feel that they get the routine, I’ll move them on to a more difficult routine and repeat the process.
What made you decide to pursue a career in dance? I have always loved dancing! In elementary school, I was in magnet, too. I did everything from jazz, hip-hop, ballet, tap and cheer. Being that little and finding something I was passionate about was the best thing that happened to me. I just knew I always wanted to help people find something that they felt passionate about or help better themselves with dancing.
Is it a rewarding experience to see your students complete a routine?
It’s definitely a proud moment to see your students complete a routine and all of the hard work that they put into learning a new routine, not because they have to, but because they want to. It’s what they are passionate about that makes all the hard work worth it. I definitely like to brag about my students.
What do you enjoy most about instructing hip-hop? I enjoy helping children build self-confidence and seeing my students express themselves through dance.
What’s the most challenging part about being a dance instructor?
Hearing my students say that they can’t — to see them doubt themselves. 134
Bakersfield Life
September 2012
What inspires you as a dancer? What are your methods of teaching new students who don’t have prior dance experience? If a student is a beginner, I start them off
When I dance, I get lost in the music and forget about everything else that goes on in my life. Dancing is my little getaway from the world; my passion is for dance and always wanting to better myself.