Exceptional Student Oct 2017
Chandra W.
Big congratulations are in order for Chandra, the Hikari Ryuza Center’s newest “Student of the Quarter!” Chandra has earned this recognition because of her willingness to go for it. Once she decided she was joining our Bujutsu program she was all in. She embraces her training in the same manner she embraces life, with Kyoshin Tankai (Open Mind, Open Heart); something that we revere highly. Of course she works her tushy off and has a laugh that no one can deny! We interviewed her so everyone could get to know her a little better. Without further ado, we present: Chandra!
Interview with Chandra
by Sr Professor Shizumi Crimi
P: How old are you?
C: 32. Right? Yeah, I’ll be 33 in March. I stopped really keeping track after 28.
P: What is your profession?
C: I am a Women’s Empowerment Coach. I’m currently working with Professor Crimi and Sempai Hays to develop a program which will enable women to step into their power. My true passion is to help other women live the best possible version of their life.
P: When did you start training in Hikari Ryuza Bujutsu?
C: September 15th or 16th of this year.
P: What is your favorite roll?
C: Mmmm… Ok, it’s not one that I graded on, but it’s really fun. It’s the one where you get moving really fast, then jump into the air and roll out.
P: How about your favorite fall?
C: I guess the rear fall right now. I haven’t done that many.
P: And what is your favorite technique?
C: I think O’Koshi because then when I stand up I can go ‘Ta-Da.’ (Motions arms up in the air.)
P: Do you have a favorite color?
C: I have a lot of favorites colors. I think blue is my favorite color though; turquoise blue.
P: What about a number?
C: Three. Three stands for a lot of powerful things. Mind, Body, Spirit. Father, Son, Holy Ghost. It’s just a really powerful number.
P: Can you tell us something about yourself that maybe not everyone would know?
C: I feel like that’s hard because I’m pretty open. I guess I think it’s kind of a fun fact that Brent and I have been together since I was 15 and we’re still married.
P: What are your reasons for studying Hikari Ryuza Bujutsu?
C: To further develop my character and become the strongest version of myself.
P: What are 3 goals that you currently have?
C: 1) Black Belt (holds up thumb with a serious eye). 2) To continue to conquer my fears everytime I walk into this building and outside of this building; I just feel it’s more obvious when I’m here. 3) I want our program to change women’s lives. I want it to help people on a deeper level, not just surface level.
P: What are some of the important things you are learning in your Bujutsu?
C: For me it’s more about mental than physical right now. It’s about overcoming my fears and getting out of my own head. Respect for other people. That’s a big thing for me. And discipline because I’m the biggest procrastinator in the world.
P: Why do you think you were chosen as the Student of the Quarter?
C: I’m not really sure yet. I do my best every time I come here, but I still feel like it sucks. I guess it’s mostly about not giving up, but I also feel like everybody does that in here.
P: So, then what is something unique about you as a beginning student?
C: I’m in my 30’s; I feel like that’s probably unusual, but it also means it’s never too late to start something new.
P: If you wanted to invite a friend to Bujutsu, what would you say?
C: This a place where you can totally be yourself and it’s like being a kid again. It’s really fun; things you wouldn’t even think about doing outside of the Dojo that are fun. Also that it feels like a family; A genuine feeling of love.
P: What is your favorite part of class?
C: My favorite part of class is the very beginning when you walk through the door and you have no idea about what you’re getting ready to do; kind of terrifying, kind of exciting, and everybody is greeting each other and excited to see each other. It’s just really fun.
P: How far do you want to go in your Bujutsu?
C: I don’t see an end there. All the way.
P: What rank can you imagine yourself as?
C: (Eye brow raises…) I have no idea. Right now I just have my eye on Black Belt. We’ll see where it goes from there.
P: Is there anything else you would like to add before we conclude this interview?
C: No, I think that’s good. Mmmm… I have one thing to add. Why isn’t everyone doing this!?