I have always loved to dance, but have always been that "slow," hard-to-teach student who struggled through class feeling awkward and, sometimes, hopeless. Malik got through to me and my muscle memory in a way no teacher has before. In addition to being an inspiring dancer, Malik is a gifted and organized teacher. She structures her classes very thoughtfully, and works with students on multiple levels -- to overcome self-consciousness, to build coordination, to develop strength and grace, to learn to isolate muscle groups, to relate music and movement together, to learn choreography, to build community among the class members, and to have a good time! Malik uses different strategies to help her students learn -- she doesn't just show a move and expect us to copy it. She also explains when needed, gives helpful images so we can visualize the move, describes how moves should feel, and helps us position our bodies properly. She's excellent with adapting classes for people with physical limitations (I have some chronic joint problems). Malik has also been extremely encouraging to her students, working with us "where we are" and helping us to grow into stronger dancers. I no longer feel like the "problem kid!" Thanks, Malik!
