One of the questions I get asked most often is, “Why did you decide to become a martial arts instructor?” It’s not a simple answer, but it’s a story I love to share because it shaped who I am today and what Kung Fu Kids has become.
Growing up, my entire life seemed destined for one path: becoming a doctor. It was the dream of my parents and the goal I had worked tirelessly toward. I excelled in school, scored high on my MCAT, and was on the verge of applying to medical schools. But as I stood on the threshold of this long-planned journey, something unexpected began pulling me in another direction.
During my time at UC Berkeley, I had not only fallen in love with martial arts but had also begun teaching it. As the most advanced member of the Cal Wushu Club, I stepped into the role of instructor, sharing my passion with others. I remember watching my students improve, grow, and achieve things they didn’t think possible. That feeling—of making a difference in someone’s life—was indescribable.
As I prepared for medical school, I worked as an ER technician at Good Samaritan Hospital. One day, an emergency room doctor said to me, “You clearly love martial arts. I think you should pursue it full-time.” I was stunned. Here was someone in the profession I was striving to enter, telling me to follow my passion instead.
Around the same time, a friend in medical school warned me, “Only come to med school if you love medicine with every fiber of your being because it will consume your entire life.” Her words made me pause. I liked medicine, but I loved martial arts.
Ultimately, I chose the path that truly lit me up. I told my parents I wouldn’t be pursuing medicine after all and, to my surprise, they supported me. They even helped transform our garage into my very first martial arts studio. Years later, my dad explained his reasoning: “I could see how passionate you were about martial arts. If you have enough passion, you’ll find a way to make it successful.”
That decision changed my life. I’ve often wondered what my life might have looked like if I’d gone to medical school, but I know it wouldn’t compare to the fulfillment I’ve found through teaching martial arts. Today, I’m grateful not only for the journey I’ve taken but for the impact Kung Fu Kids has made—and will continue to make—on our students and community.
Thank you for being part of this journey with me.
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