FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My training sessions are for 90 minutes/1.5 hours. Discounts apply when scheduling multiple lessons, with prices as low as $52.50 per 90 minute session. Additional discounts apply when multiple students train (any additional students pay half-price!). I train with students in their homes (or other student-selected location). Students are also invited to travel to my location in Glen Burnie MD. Any students actively taking private lessons are also free to attend any regular Aikido classes at Arundel Aikikai at no extra cost. Scheduling sessions is flexible, with time available early mornings, day-time, and evening. Martial arts training sessions normally include a curriculum check-in, stretching, basic exercises, and technique training. Curriculum can cover a diverse set of situations based on student input/requests. Longer sessions give students the best chance to practice, ask questions, and discover their answers.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Before setting up lessons, I meet with (or talk with via phone) all potential clients to become familiar with their personal situations and training goals. This meeting is always free and functions as a no-obligation quote for training with me. It allows you to learn more about me and to build a self-defense curriculum structured around your unique needs. You are encouraged to take ownership of your martial arts journey, and this meeting is a critical step in that process. In-person meetings can be conducted at a location of your choosing. Phone meetings are a possible alternative but limit my ability to conduct a detailed assessment.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a professor of martial arts at Anne Arundel County Community College, and the owner/instructor of Arundel Aikikai. I have dan ranking (black belt) in both classical Korean Karate and the Japanese martial art of Aikido. I have additionally trained at length (unranked) in the Chinese martial art of Pa'gua (boxing) as well as the Japanese martial art of Iaido (sword). In addition to martial arts experience, I have a Master's Degree in Peace and Conflict Resolution from American University, as well as a Human Services Certificate from Anne Arundel Community College focusing on mental health support. I have strong experience in cross-cultural environments and international communities. I also have over 5 years of work experience in both professional emergency medical response and mental health support/case management.