When leaving the dojo to attend college at UC Berkeley, Sensei Advincula advised that she study other styles of martial arts. She did so, and quickly realized how lucky she had been to study with such a great master.

When Heather moved to the east coast, she continued to attend as many of Sensei Advincula’s seminars as possible, and trains with Sensei every time she visits home, in sunny California. In the year 2000, she was promoted to the rank of Godan, and is certified by Sensei Advincula with a Shihan Renshi teaching license.

Today, Heather studies and teaches Isshin-ryu in her small home dojo.