Course name: LSK 195 Dance
Instructor: Dr. Faith Musko, Assistant Professor of Forensic Science
About the course: This course is designed for those who have little to no dance experience, as well as for those who have done other styles of dance. Students will learn the fundamental skills of West Coast Swing and the importance of stretching and breathwork that can be applied to everyday life. Fundamentals, technique, and musicality will be emphasized in relation to the four basic West Coast Swing patterns. This course will incorporate the idea of individual movements, like those that are derived from ballet, hip hop, contemporary, ballroom, and line-dancing, along with some fun footwork variations to current music. Students can expand their skills by social dancing with the WCS club on campus, Sting Swing.
Instructor commentary: “This course is hands-down one of my favorite courses to teach, and one I look forward to every week. Outside of my responsibilities as a professor, I am a professional West Coast Swing (WCS) dancer. Surprise! This course allows me to share my passion and hobby with students, while teaching them fantastic skills for life. I think it is a perfect opportunity to connect with students in a fun, stress-free way, and shows that professors are multidimensional people outside of the traditional learning environment. Plus, I think it de-bunks some myths or stereotypes related to chemists or scientists!
"In relation to the dance itself, since WCS is a partner dance, the class not only teaches the skill of dance, but practices other important life skills like communication, consent, respect, and self-advocacy for one’s personal boundaries. This course has helped students meet and socially interact with other students outside their major, and even assisted several engaged couples prepare for their upcoming weddings! What could be more fun than sharing this experience with a best friend or future spouse?” - Dr. Faith Musko
Student commentary: "I really enjoyed the experience as a whole! I took it with my girlfriend, and it gave us something to bond over in the semester. We've even done some dancing together after the class ended! I highly recommend that a student takes this course if they prefer to be active indoors when it's cold outside. It is worth it!" -Colin Rhodes, sports media (sports information/athletic communication) major from Manor, Pennsylvania
