Karen Von Bernewitz Memorial Scholarship

Being involved in fine arts as a student is especially important to develop an exceptional resume and career. I once heard a respected director say, “music makes our kids better”. He explained this after first discussing how many people would say things like, “music makes our kids smarter”. As musicians are not always the most intellectual people, introducing music into anyone’s life can completely change the direction of their story. When someone strives for excellence in any context, it always has a positive impact on their lives. My story in particular can really reassure the fact that music is completely revitalizing. The Covid-19 pandemic was insufferably hard on me. It began when I was in the sixth grade, and continued into my seventh grade year. I was already beginning to decline during sixth grade and rapidly plummeted into depression once quarantine began. Things were only getting worse and it seemed only a miracle could save me. The last few weeks before eighth grade would begin, I went to my first band camp. I had signed up a few months prior and was frankly expecting to quit. It changed my life in a matter of days. I suddenly went from having no friends, crying myself to sleep every night, and feeling hopeless, to making the closest friendships I have ever had, having a reason to get up in the morning, and dreaming of a future. Music saved my life. Expressing myself, learning new things, improving, and especially sharing it with others, gave me something to live for. Not only myself, every other musician I have met would not be the same without music. It brings people together, teaches them the importance of expression, and allows them to feel worthy of something in their lives. Music has made such a difference in my life that I would like to dedicate my career to it. I plan on majoring in music education in hopes that someday I can help save someone the way I was saved. I hope that I can make people's lives better and worth living with what I do. I want to lead a positive example for people and maybe even help make the world a better place. I believe that art will play a huge role in the progression of the world, and if I can aid in that at all I will do everything I can. This scholarship would help me be able to afford my education without having years of student debt to pay.