In 2022, I became a certified self-defense coach after years of consistent and dedicated training. As a coach, I realized that my responsibility went beyond simply teaching what I knew—I had to become a student again. This pushed me to explore new disciplines, starting with jiu-jitsu and eventually embracing Muay Thai for its intensity and allure. I embarked on an intense training journey with Chris Kwiatkowski, a seven-time Muay Thai champion, and over a year later, I’m still learning from him. Chris is more than just a coach—he’s a mentor and a friend. Training with someone of his caliber is a unique opportunity that only NYC can offer.

In my classes, I pass on the knowledge I’ve gained from him—both physical and mental. This journey has taught me how to deal with pain and cultivate the fighter’s mindset. Beyond fighting, I took on another challenge: learning how to get stronger. I work with a strength and conditioning coach to understand what it takes for a fighter—whether in the ring or on the street—not to give up, both physically and mentally.

And fighting is also (or primarily) mental. My academic curiosity pushed me toward studying a subject I never thought I’d explore: violence and its psychology. It’s an uncomfortable topic, one most people prefer to avoid—but precisely because of that, it demands our attention. Understanding violence, in all its forms, is essential for anyone seeking to navigate the world with awareness and resilience.

I see myself as a student in every aspect of life. Growth is my priority—not just at work, but in everything I encounter. Admittedly, this mindset can be frustrating at times, but it’s the only way I know how to move forward.