Students Find Community Through Bachata Moderna
January 12, 2026
Bachata Moderna has quickly become one of Eastern Florida State College’s most vibrant student organizations, bringing students together through dance, connection, and shared passion. The club’s officers are being recognized as Trending Titans for their leadership, creativity, and dedication to building community on campus.
Their story is also a reminder to Titans everywhere that college is not just about coursework. It is about finding your people or creating a space where you belong. Whether through joining a club or starting something new, student organizations play a powerful role in shaping the college experience.
Founded in early 2025, Bachata Moderna was created to provide a stronger social and community experience for EFSC students. In just two semesters, the club has grown into a welcoming space where students of all backgrounds and experience levels can connect, learn, and have fun.
Club sponsor Dr. Nicole Gomez shared that the officers go above and beyond their roles to support members and promote the organization. Many officers continue developing their skills by taking dance classes outside of EFSC, allowing them to provide high-quality instruction and engaging experiences for their peers. Their teamwork, energy, and creativity have helped the club grow rapidly and gain attention for its lively campus events and strong social media presence, connecting them to the broader Titan and Space Coast communities through entertaining reels and lesson posts.
Follow Bachata Moderna on Instagram
Student Voices Behind the Dance Floor
Raz Barzilay | Founder and Lead Officer | Turning a Passion for Dance into a Thriving Campus Community
Raz founded Bachata Moderna after recognizing a need for a stronger social connection on campus. Rather than looking elsewhere or at other colleges, he decided to create a space centered around something he loved. Creating the club allowed Raz to combine leadership, teaching, and community building in a way that made his college experience more meaningful.
“In just two semesters, we reached a lot of students and created a real community on campus,” Raz said. “My favorite moments are seeing students practice, succeed at what they are learning, and genuinely enjoy themselves.”
Raz is currently pursuing his bachelor’s degree in healthcare management at EFSC. He shared that being part of the club has helped him enjoy his college experience more while connecting with peers he can study with and learn from.
“If you think a place you’re at is lacking something, try to add it yourself before looking for it elsewhere.”
Roxanne McDonough | Co-Lead Officer | Leading with Encouragement and Community Spirit
Roxanne joined Bachata Moderna to support the club’s founder after reconnecting on campus. Although she had no prior experience with bachata, she quickly found the club to be a welcoming and rewarding space.
“Dancing bachata is so much fun, and meeting new people through this club has been incredibly rewarding.”
Roxanne is preparing to pursue a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering. Her role with Bachata Moderna has provided opportunities to build leadership and interpersonal skills through event planning and peer mentorship.
“It’s been amazing to see new faces become familiar friends and to watch our community grow week after week.”
Natalia Sierra | Administrative Manager | Building Leadership Skills Through Dance
and Organization
Natalia said she was drawn to Bachata Moderna because of her love for dance and the
opportunity to connect with others.
“My experience has been very fun and exciting,” she said. “Through this club, I’ve
met so many amazing individuals and learned a new style of dance.”
Her favorite moments were the club’s dance socials, where students learned from professional guest instructors in the community, danced with friends, and met new people. Natalia recently completed her Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree in Biomedical Sciences with EFSC and plans to pursue a career in healthcare. Through her officer role, she has developed leadership, communication, and organization skills that will be valuable in her future career. Natalia added, “I've also gained new dance skills that are beneficial in all areas of life.”
“Stepping out of my comfort zone through this club led to some of the most meaningful friendships and experiences of my college journey.”
Additional Officers:
The following Bachata Moderna officers were also nominated as Trending Titans but were unavailable for comment at the time of publication:
- Alyssa Antantis | Social Manager
- Jonathan Braud | Creative Manager
- Isabel Rather | Event Coordinator
Together, the Bachata Moderna officer team continues to foster an inclusive environment that encourages students to connect, express themselves, and build confidence outside the classroom. The club welcomes students of all dance experience levels and serves as a reminder that getting involved can help Titans feel engaged, supported, and connected throughout their time at EFSC.
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