IRVINE, Calif. - This week we introduce you to senior Mari Malig from the Concordia University Irvine dance team. 
 
We went 1-on-1 with the business administration major who is also pursuing a minor in communications. The sophomore is excited to be a part of an evolving CUI dance team that has nearly doubled in size over the past couple years and is now coached by recent CUI graduate, Alisa Pimentel.
 
Sports Information: What city are you from and how has it shaped you as a person?
 
Mari Malig: I'm from Torrance, California, and it's a diverse city, so I think it has shaped me to be open-minded and willing to try new things
 
Sports Information: How have you chosen to improve yourself during this pandemic?
 
Mari: During this pandemic, I wanted to grow more in my faith, so I started reading my Bible more and did Bible studies with some of my friends. I think quarantine allowed me to pause and really focus on God and His faithfulness, which made me feel closer to Him.
 
Sports Information: Who is the biggest influence in your life?
 
Mari: The biggest influence in my life would have to be my parents because they always encourage and support me, and they inspire me to work hard and achieve my goals. They have definitely helped shape me into the person I am today.
 
Sports Information: What is your favorite aspect of your sport?
 
Mari: My favorite aspect of dance is getting to make music come alive. Dance gives us the ability to express our emotions and tell stories through movement. Whether it's a jazz routine that's meant to cheer up a crowd at a basketball game, or a contemporary piece that displays an emotional story of love, dance allows us to express ourselves and connect with an audience.
 
Sports Information: What is your favorite part about being a member of the CUI dance team?
 
Mari: My favorite part about being a member of the CUI dance team is getting to do something I'm passionate about while being surrounded by supportive people.
 
Sports Information: How has CUI helped you develop as a dancer and as a student?
 
Mari: CUI has helped me develop as a dancer through the encouragement of my amazing coaches who push me to be the best that I can be. I've gotten the opportunity to choreograph routines for our team and this has not only helped me improve my choreography abilities but also my communication and leadership skills.
 
Sports Information: What is one thing you will remember from your time as an Eagle?
 
Mari: One thing I will remember from my time as an Eagle is when I first met my teammates at the start of my freshman year because I felt thankful to be around people who share the same passion as me and to continue dancing in college.
 
To follow the CUI dance team on social media, check out their Instagram account (@concordia_dance team) and their Twitter account (@cui_danceteam).

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