Laura Chadwick has had a life-long interest in traditional Chinese martial arts. After graduating with honors from Austin College (near Dallas) with a double major in Anthropology and French, Laura began training under Master Alvin Raul Cardona in July 2002. Through consistent effort and training, Laura has earned the rank of second degree blackbelt and is Master Cardona's highest ranking female student. During her six years of training in Eagle Claw, she has competed at tournaments in Ohio, Michigan and Chicago, taught kung fu summer camp for children, served as judge in several martial arts tournaments, published articles in kung fu magazines and now teaches kung fu and self-defense oriented towards women. Laura finished her MA degree in Medical Anthropology in May, 2008 from the University of Illinois, Chicago. Her anthropology studies have taken her to locations as diverse as southern Africa, Central America and Europe. She is now a full time student of Traditional Chinese Medicine (acupuncture and herbs). In addition to kung fu and school, Laura also works as a paralegal/researcher assisting refugees and immigrants in their legal proceedings. She also enjoys participating in various community service events such as the 39.3-mile Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.
