Meet Luvabull Erika

Age/Birthday

29 / October 13

Hometown

Glendale Heights, IL

Occupation

Sales & Marketing Coordinator for a Senior Retirement Community

College

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Go Illini!)

Nickname(s)

E

Ethnic Background

Asian (Filipino)

Dance Experience

I’ve been dancing since the age of 6 and have had studio training in tap, jazz, ballet and pointe. During those years, I danced competitively and went to national competitions. I also danced for my high school pom squad for three years, my last year being captain and being voted MVP.

At the University of Illinois, I was a member of the Illinettes Dance team for two years, cheering for the Fighting Illini football and basketball teams. I had the privilege of performing in the Superdome in New Orleans when Illinois went to the Sugar Bowl.

For the past 5 years, I have been a member of Endure Productions, a dance ministry directed and choreographed by the Chicago Luvabulls’ choreographer. This ministry inspires and empowers people spiritually through the art of dance.

Lifetime Goal

Traveling the world and experiencing new cultures.

Three words that describe me are

Hard-working, Dependable and Loyal

Quote to live by

“Your attitude, not your aptitude will determine your altitude.” -Zig Ziglar

“No Struggle, No Progress” -A Tyrus Thomas tattoo

Pet Peeve

Those who can’t follow simple instructions, people who don’t recycle and grammatical errors

My claim to fame is...

Being a Luvabull!

Most people don’t know this about me...

I dislike slow dancing at weddings. When I do, I feel like I’m 13 again.

Years on squad

7 years

Why I chose to be a Luvabull

For the love of dancing and performing, and being a Bulls fan!

Favorite Holiday

Thanksgiving

Favorite Movie

The Hangover, Sex and the City, What Happens in Vegas, Pretty Woman, Girls Just Want to Have Fun, Wedding Crashers…just to name a few.

Best Quality

My patience with helping others and being understanding and supportive.

Book I’m reading now

Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella

Favorite type of music

Pop, Rock, R&B and Hip-hop

How do friends see you (three words)

Energetic, Warm-hearted, Organized

My proudest accomplishment to date is...

Skydiving

What is the best gift you have ever received?

Two small pillows my grandma made for me when I was born.

Ideal Job

Performing on Broadway!

Advice to young dancers

Dance with all your emotion and tell a story through your dance. Connect with your audience. Also, take advantage of every opportunity given to you. Stay humble, work hard and never give up on your goals. Don’t ever underestimate your capabilities and always dream big!