Rebeca Cerna

1984 – 1990 at Saint Joseph Ballet

BS, Cal State Long Beach, 1998
MA, Public Health, UCLA, 2004
Research Associate, WestEd Health

and Human Development Division

Looking back now as an adult, I realize what Saint Joseph Ballet really did for me.  It provided an opportunity to not get distracted by outside influences.  I couldn't get in trouble because I had to manage my time every day to go to dance class, come home and do my homework.

At the same time, we were exposed to many experiences in the field of art such as performing and going to the theater. Research in resilience shows that youth need opportunities for meaningful involvement and caring adult relationships.  Saint Joseph Ballet provides these protective factors steering youth in the right direction.