Daniah Cervantes-Thurmond
Hockley,TX
Summary
Energetic dance instructor with experience coaching dance students in private and group sessions. Accomplished performer and people person successful at developing talent. Versed in adapting teaching methods and instructional materials to meet students' varying needs and interests. Driven professional trained in wide range of dance styles. Excellent choreography and group instructional skills. Strong dance instruction and performance background with love of teaching students of different ages.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Dance Instructor
Texas Southern University Recreation Center
Houston, Texas
09.2024 - Current
- Taught a variety of techniques including stretching, leaps, turns and jumps.
- Created a safe environment where students can learn without fear of criticism or judgment.
- Selected appropriate music for classes based on genre, speed and skill level required.
- Developed and implemented dance classes for students of all ages, levels and abilities.
- Encouraged creative expression through improvisation exercises.
- Adapted teaching methods to accommodate different learning styles and abilities.
- Upheld studio guidelines and legal requirements for dancer and staff protection.
- Planned choreography for group performances and recitals.
Kids Choreographer
Texas Southern University Recreation Center
Houston, Texas
06.2025 - 07.2025
- Mentored young dancers on proper technique in order to improve their skills.
- Explored new techniques and methods to develop creative movements.
- Coached performers on facial expressions, gestures, and body language in order to bring characters to life onstage.
- Produced innovative routines that blended different styles of dance.
- Created detailed notes regarding all aspects of each performance piece.
- Monitored progress during rehearsals by providing feedback on individual performances.
- Researched music and other elements needed for creating original works.
- Choreographed step and moves sequences for dancers.
- Prepared choreography for individual and group performances.
- Instructed dancers on motivation behind movements to instill creative expression.
Collegiate Basketball Dancer
Texas Southern University Tiger Sensations
Houston, Texas
06.2022 - 05.2025
- Maintained physical fitness through regular exercise and stretching techniques.
- Attended rehearsals regularly to refine skills and practice with the rest of the cast.
- Studied various forms of dance such as jazz, tap and hip hop to enhance skill set.
- Assisted in teaching classes at local studios or community centers when needed.
- Coached younger performers during large-scale productions to ensure quality results.
- Volunteered at community events or festivals by performing demonstrations or workshops.
- Developed new routines with an emphasis on creativity and expression.
- Applied makeup before each show according to specific requirements outlined by director.
- Learned choreography quickly and adapted to changes in choreography seamlessly by maintaining physical and mental flexibility.
- Built and cultivated lasting professional relationships with other dancers, choreographers and performers by attending social events and maintaining communication.
- Studied various dance techniques and styles to expand repertoire and improve versatility as a performer.
- Contributed to a positive and supportive team environment, fostering collaboration among cast and crew.
- Created and choreographed dance moves and routines for self, partners and ensembles.
Dance Teacher
Visual Arts Production
Houston, Texas
11.2023 - 12.2023
- Motivated students to practice regularly and strive for improvement.
- Created an environment conducive to learning by providing positive reinforcement to students.
- Encouraged students to take part in extracurricular activities related to dance such as festivals or workshops.
- Evaluated current trends in the field of dance instruction in order to make recommendations for program improvements.
- Maintained accurate records of student attendance and progress.
- Supervised student rehearsals ensuring safety regulations were followed at all times.
- Developed and implemented age-appropriate lesson plans for dance classes.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology / Forensic Science
Texas Southern University
Houston, TX05-2026
Skills
- Team collaboration
- Physical fitness
- Teaching strategies
- Teaching techniques
- Group teaching
- Behavior management
- Performance coaching
- Motivation strategies
- Positive reinforcement
- Competition experience
Timeline
Kids Choreographer
Texas Southern University Recreation Center
06.2025 - 07.2025
Dance Instructor
Texas Southern University Recreation Center
09.2024 - Current
Dance Teacher
Visual Arts Production
11.2023 - 12.2023
Collegiate Basketball Dancer
Texas Southern University Tiger Sensations
06.2022 - 05.2025
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology / Forensic Science
Texas Southern University
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