My martial arts experience has been life changing overall. It feels like just yesterday when I was introduced to my professor/coach/mentor and friend Leo. Leo leads his classes with patience, honesty and an open mindset. As a student, it is extremely important to be approached in a manner which reinforces the acknowledgment of your efforts. This is one of Leo's strengths. His patience translates respect for his students, his coaching style and encouragement translates honesty and integrity. His work ethic is unmatchable and inspiring. Leo's life and martial arts experience allows him to understand and communicate with each and every one of his students in a way that assures us we are being prioritized in our martial arts growth. I've been a student of Leo's for little over a year now and I can confidently say that my Jiujitsu is strong and intelligent. Over this period of learning, I've been promoted in ranking to a blue belt. Thid has been a rewarding experience. I joined a tournament prior to my promotion to white belt, where I believed I made easy work of my competition despite the fact that I had some health adversities to overcome before the tournament. My mind was set on winning, and my spirit was strong because I believed in my team, in my training, and in the techniques, I had been taught. I've built up a confidence that has allowed me to believe in myself and in my abilities inside and outside the gym. As an example, I can say that I have I've gathered enough knowledge to be confident in assisting my coach in an MMA and Boxing corner.  This has allowed me to walk confidently outside in my everyday life. Since then, I've got engaged and now am very close to being married! I've had 2 promotions at work in a period of 6 months. This journey feels amazing. I am looking forward to the future as I have new goals to meet, more projects to work on and more knowledge to gain. Although I am a new blue belt, I am eager to climb up in ranking and I will continue to work hard and diligently gain a purple belt. I know I have to be patient and attenuative as I continue to study his craft. All the teachings I have received have encouraged me to start teaching and leading Jiujitsu classes as well. I can't wait to see what will come from this. I can definitely say that I'm excited for the future. With all this being said, I'd like to thank everyone around me who has made this journey possible, for all the encouragement and trust. I've invested my time and efforts into something that has uplifted my character because I chose the right person to help me uplift my personal and MMA skills. Thank you, Professor Leo.