There's a particular type of magic when you're having a summer drive with your closest friends, windows down, voices raised in joyous unison. We've had countless moments like this, singing Chappell Roan's "Hot to Go' and "Good Hurt" at the top of our lungs. These songs are more than just music to use; they are our anthems that represent our collective experience as queer folk. These songs evoke feelings of liberation, acceptance, and joy. Chappell Roan's music has a unique way of making every listener feel seen and understood. Her fearless activism, combined with her incredible talent, makes her a standout artist in today's society. My queer friends and I appreciate Chappell not only for her captivation through music, but also her for steady commitment to using her platform for the better. She makes sure to advocate for important issues. She embodies the kind of role model that is needed, someone who is not afraid to stand up for what is right and inspire someone to do the same. Chappell's powerful activism is something she doesn't just sing about like love and acceptance, she lives it. I remember watching an interview where Chappell discussed the importance of creating safe spaces for queer youth. Her overall message was that it is crucial for the youth to have spaces where they can freely express themselves. The dedication inspires me. It reminds me and many others that our voices matter. For many queer fans, including myself, Chappell represents more than just an artist. She is a symbol of peace and acceptance. She has a radiant ability to connect with her fanbase on a personal level, increasing her music's power. In essence, my love for Chappell Roan is deeply rooted in her talent, style, and the profound connection she fosters with her listeners. I am continually inspired by her commitment to activism and forming more inclusive environments for queer people. Her music is a haven, a place where I and numerous others can find solace. Chappell Roan is not just an artist; she is a movement, I am proud to be part of the community she champions so passionately.

Dance is a form of expression that has been a significant part of my life for as long as I can remember. There is something magical about how dance allows me to communicate my emotions and thoughts through movement. Whether it is ballet's grace and fluidity or hip-hop's raw power, dance has always been my preferred medium for self-expression. I am passionate about dance because it allows me to push my physical and mental limits. The discipline and dedication required to master new techniques and choreography can be challenging. Still, the accomplishment and satisfaction of perfecting a move or routine are indescribable. The feeling of strength and confidence that comes with knowing I have pushed myself to new heights is unmatched by any other experience. Dance is also a way for me to connect with others more deeply. A certain kind of camaraderie comes with being part of a dance team or class. The shared experience of working towards a common goal and the sense of community that develops, as a result, is something I cherish deeply. Dance leads to new, strong bonds that are unique and special, and I have made some of my closest friendships through my shared love of music and dance. My creativity and imagination come to life through dance. I love how dance lets me tell stories and evoke emotions without uttering a word. Dance can tap into my innermost thoughts and feelings and transform them into something tangible and beautiful. Whether I am performing on stage or simply dancing in my bedroom, the freedom and creativity of dance allow me to fully express myself and connect with others who share my passion. When I step onto a stage to dance and perform for big audiences, I exude a level of confidence that is truly inspiring. My body moves with purpose and fluidity, each step and gesture conveying a sense of power and poise. As the spotlight shines upon my fellow dance mates and me, we own the stage, drawing in the audience with our magnetic presence and captivating performance. Even as the adrenaline rushes through my veins, I remain calm and focused, trusting in my abilities and delivering a performance that leaves a lasting impression. Dancing and performing is where I truly feel alive, and my confidence and skill on stage serve as a testament to my passion and dedication. In conclusion, dance is more than just a hobby for me; it is a way of life. The physical and emotional benefits of dance and the sense of community and creativity it provides have made me passionate about this art form. Whether I am performing on stage or simply dancing in my living room, dance will always be an integral part of who I am.

Participating in a dance showcase for Raise the Arts was a significant experience. It was an opportunity to use my passion for dance to make a difference in the lives of women and girls in rural India. The showcase was organized by Raise the Arts. This non-profit organization uses dance and art to raise funds and donations for Wells on Wheels, which purchases waterwheels for women in India. Wells on Wheels is an organization that addresses a crucial issue in rural India - access to clean water. In many parts of India, women and girls must walk long distances to fetch water for their families. Performing this task prevents them from attending school or pursuing other opportunities. Additionally, carrying heavy water jugs over long distances can lead to physical disabilities and injuries, further limiting their possibilities. The waterwheels purchased by Wells on Wheels can hold up to 45 liters. They can be easily rolled on the ground, reducing the physical burden on women and girls. Giving them access to waterwheels allows them to spend more time on education, work, and other activities that can improve their lives and communities. I was excited to participate in the dance showcase because it was a way to contribute to this cause through my love of dance. The showcase was held in a large auditorium and featured various dance styles, including contemporary, hip-hop, and Bollywood. I was part of a group that performed a contemporary piece inspired by the struggles faced by women in India. Our dance was choreographed to powerful music that reflected the resilience and strength of women who face difficult circumstances. We incorporated movements inspired by the waterwheel and the act of carrying heavy loads while also incorporating uplifting moves that conveyed hope and determination. The showcase was a huge success, and we raised significant funds and donations for Wells on Wheels. Seeing so many people come together to support this cause was inspiring, and it was an honor to be a part of it. Performing in the Raise the Arts showcase means I am forever grateful. It allowed me to use my passion for dance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of women in India. It also gave me a greater appreciation for the power of the arts to bring people together and create positive change in the world. I look forward to participating in future events like this and continuing to support causes that are important to me through my love of dance.

The death of my grandmother hit me hard. She was my emotional rock, always there to listen and offer advice. Losing her left a void in my life that felt impossible to fill. It was a time of great struggle, and it took a while for me to overcome the adversity I faced. At first, I was lost in a sea of emotions. I felt lost, alone, and overwhelmed. Thoughts of what life would be like without her consumed my mind. Focusing on anything else became difficult, causing my mental health to decline. I knew I needed to take action and find a way to move forward. One of the first things I did was to reach out to my friends and family. Talking about my feelings helped me to process them better. Sharing my grief with others made me feel less alone, and it helped me to come to terms with my loss. My loved ones provided a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, and the emotional support that I desperately needed. Another way that I overcame adversity was by finding a creative outlet. I started writing about my experiences, pouring my thoughts and feelings onto paper. I found that expressing myself through writing helped me to gain perspective on my problems. It also allowed me to find a sense of closure, as I could process my emotions healthily and productively. Watching the pages fill up with all of the pain and grief I experienced over the past couple of months helped heal me. I now carry on writing journal entries almost every day. Finally, I found that focusing on positive memories of my grandmother helped me to overcome the pain of her loss. Watching videos of her laughing and making her corny jokes have only pushed me closer to total peace. I began to celebrate her life and cherish the memories that we shared together. By focusing on the positive, I was able to find joy in the midst of grief. In conclusion, overcoming the loss of my grandmother was a challenging experience. But through the support of my loved ones, expressing myself creatively, and focusing on the positive memories that we shared, I overcame the adversity that I faced. It was a difficult journey, but one that made me stronger and more resilient in the end. I am proud that I have grown from a traumatic experience that happened at a young age and am continuing to grow.

As a child, I was always the kid who never felt comfortable inviting friends to my home. I wanted to share my space with them, but my family's house was always small, cramped, and less fancy than my friends' houses. I would often house-hop, going to different friends' houses to hang out, avoiding having people over to my own home. I couldn't help but feel ashamed and embarrassed about my family's financial situation. This sense of inadequacy would further amplify when I saw the homes of my wealthier friends and their families. As I grew older, I began to understand the concept of generational wealth. This wealth can come in various forms, including financial assets, property, and education. For some families, it means that their children are born into a life of abundance and have the resources to pursue their dreams and live comfortably without worrying about financial limitations. Generational wealth has always been something that I've aspired to achieve. I don't want my children or future generations to feel the same way I did growing up. I want to provide them with a comfortable and secure lifestyle where they don't have to worry about money or struggle to make ends meet. My career as a future traveling dance choreographer could be a powerful tool in achieving this goal. As a dance choreographer, I would have the opportunity to work with individuals and organizations across the country and worldwide. By building a strong network and reputation in the industry, I hope to secure high-paying contracts and opportunities that will help me build a solid financial foundation. Beyond my financial goals, I am also committed to using my success to give back to my community and help others achieve their goals. I plan to establish a scholarship fund to support aspiring dancers and artists from underprivileged backgrounds and invest in programs that promote financial literacy and education. I also want to ensure that my children receive a good education and have access to opportunities that will help them succeed in their lives. By doing so, I want to create a legacy allowing my family to thrive for future generations. In addition to financial wealth, generational wealth can take the form of knowledge and skills passed down from generation to generation. This includes teaching my children about financial literacy, investing, and entrepreneurship, so they can build their wealth and create a better future for themselves and their families. In conclusion, the feeling of inadequacy and shame I felt as a child has driven me to strive for generational wealth. I want to provide my family with a life of abundance and security, where they can pursue their dreams without worrying about financial constraints. Through my career as a traveling dance choreographer, I plan to build a concrete financial foundation and use my success to give back to my community and support others in achieving their financial goals.

Encouragement is my favorite way of helping others. I have always thought that being someone's cheerleader can push them to greatness. When feeling down, sometimes we need reassuring and kind words. Praising effort and progress can be the best way to motivate someone to keep trying, no matter how small. Telling someone uplifting words has a mutual benefit. When I lend someone inspiring words, I make them feel good, but I feel good too! It provides me with a feeling of positivity. In the world of dance, it is common to hear, "I can't do it." Hearing my peers talk down on themselves is always heartbreaking. However, I love helping them change that negative mindset. It is beneficial to tell them how they've improved and give them props. Using encouraging words helps build a sense of community and trust, and it is a way of connecting. Every good deed helps to make the world a better place.

My best skill is dance. I use dance as a stress reliever and to express myself. To cope with anxiety and depression, I take dance classes with inspiring choreographers who help uplift my peers and me. Dance allows me to find happiness. It boosts my self-esteem and also forces me to be creative. Since middle school, I have been taking dance as an elective in school to further my training and strengthen my technique. In doing so, I have learned that simply moving my body to a song can genuinely improve my mental health. I have utilized these skills in my choreography. My school recently held a dance show, and my teacher allowed me to choreograph an entire section of a piece. It felt amazing that my teacher acknowledged my hard work and talent. That experience pushed me to be dedicated, enthusiastic, and humble. My motivation to become a better dancer increases when surrounded by people better than me. It drives me outside of my comfort zone and challenges me.

I would say my most outstanding talent is dance and performing. From the very young age of five, I have been training to become a professional dance choreographer. I have always expressed myself through dance and creativity as a young child. I wasn't born with great feet, a pretty turnout, or natural flexibility. However, I continue taking dance classes to improve my technique and work on my artistry. One of my highlights is winning the "Diva Award" at the end of a dance recital. Combining my big personality with my favorite activity was rewarding. I've learned to tell stories with my body through dance. When I choreograph, I enjoy seeing my ideas come to life. I am currently a junior in high school who takes dance classes both in and outside of school. It is beneficial that my school provides dance as an elective because I have two hours of training two to three times per week. The styles of dance lessons I partake in outside of school range from hip-hop, contemporary, jazz, and street jazz. My goal is to study Dance/Performing Arts regardless of what university I attend after high school. After graduating, I will train people who also love expressing themselves through the art of dance. Dance is my medicine and will forever be a huge part of who I am.

Since the age of five, I have had a strong desire to dance. For me, dancing and performing have always been stress relievers. I can always rely on dance to make me feel joyful. Dancing has positively impacted my life by allowing me to express myself freely. When dancing, I feel like I am on top of the world, and it will forever be my therapy. I will gain the necessary tools and resources to strive in the dance world by attending university. I am looking forward to all possibilities and encouraging others to find their niche in the areas of Art. With hopes of becoming a traveling dance choreographer, I will motivate and train upcoming creative artists. Today's younger people are growing up in a fast-paced and complex society. The younger generation is the future, so I am passionate about encouraging them to be the best they can be. Through my passion for dance, I will put in lots of effort to help others feel optimistic and pleased.

Not only does dance fuel me with creativity, but it also allows me to express my creativity. This creativity helps me express my emotions, and it has an incredible impact on my overall well-being. Your brain can have more space for innovative thoughts with a relaxed mind. Since dance is an imaginative activity, it helps me produce original ideas in creativity. Going to dance class acts as a mini-vacation and gives me a mental break from my bad days. My troubles remain at the door when I enter the dance room. After an hour of continuous focus, I am faced with reality once again. Now, I am motivated by artistic ideas, and I have a fresh perspective on my problems. After graduating from university, I plan on teaching people who also love expressing themselves through dance and working with other creative artists. Through my love of dance and music, I hope to motivate others.

My goal is to study Dance/Performing Arts regardless of what college I attend after high school. After graduating, I plan on teaching people who also love expressing themselves through dance and working with other creative artists. Through my love of dance and music, I hope to motivate others. Going to university will allow me to learn new strategies and techniques to sharpen my skills. During my time in college, I also plan on joining many dance clubs to further my studies, make friends, and feel a pleasurable sense of community. Although juggling school and extra-curricular activities may be challenging, I am prepared for any future obstacles. At the age of five, I developed a strong liking for dance. Dance allowed me to find happiness. It boosts my self-esteem and also forces me to be creative. This creativity helps me express my emotions, and it has an incredible impact on my overall well-being. Dance gives me a mental break from my bad days. My troubles remain at the door when I enter the dance room. After an hour of continuous focus, I am faced with reality once again. Now, I have a fresh perspective on my problems. Dance truly is my therapy. Dance has encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone in terms of connecting with like-minded individuals. While growing up, I did not have many close friends who took dance as seriously as I did. So while passionately talking to my friends about dance, not many of them could relate to my words. However, taking more dance classes guided me to new connections with my peers. This continues to be a fun and great way for me to gain the necessary social skills for success in the future. Today's younger people are growing up in a fast-paced and complex society. The younger generation is the future, which is why I firmly believe in encouraging them to be the best that they can be. I also think that my life's purpose is to use my background and voice to help pave the way for underrepresented groups like POC (People of Color), people struggling with mental health, and the LGBTQ+ community. Not only does dance improve physical health, but it also improves mental health. For those who experience trauma, dance can provide a feeling of being in control and groundedness. I will put in lots of effort to make anyone who relates feel joyful and satisfied.

One of my favorite hobbies outside of dance is singing. Singing gives me joy and inspires me to write songs of my own. During elementary school, I began to have a desire to start singing. Although I sing constantly, I sing on my own time, alone in my room. I have danced and performed in front of huge crowds for most of my life, starting from the age of five. However, I tend to get nervous when it comes to singing, my voice goes back into its shell, and I sing low. I want to conquer my fear of singing in front of others. The different genres of music I enjoy singing are R&B, Pop, Punk Rock, Blues Rock, and Soul. While singing these genres, I feel passionate and other emotions I cannot put into words. A few artists/bands that inspire me are Adele, Amy Winehouse, Greta Van Fleet, and BTS. Singing as an alto is difficult because I am a permanent victim of middle-child syndrome. In my experience in Theatre and musicals, the composer did not care about giving altos lovely melodies and made them rather dull. But, with the help of my cousin, a Music major, I am more confident in my singing skills. She has helped me improve on different singing techniques that have allowed me to sing louder and more confidently. Even if my singing is not flawless, it gets me through my day. As a strategy of calming my nervousness, I have incorporated musical instruments to play while singing. In doing so, I have a newfound interest in the piano and keyboard. I hope to use my musical interest in college by collaborating with others with similar hobbies or helping my peers improve in their talent. I am glad to have found a hobby that makes me cheerful and self-assured.

Since the age of five, I have had a strong desire to dance. Currently, I am a junior in high school looking to pursue my bachelor's degree in Dance/ Performing Arts. I have over ten years of dance experience. My dance focus includes hip hop, jazz, contemporary, and lyrical. At Dance Empire Studio and Paramount Dance Studio, two of the most renowned dance studios in Miami, Florida, I danced at a Company level. I have always grabbed the opportunity to take dance as an elective in school. In elementary school, I participated in cheerleading for two years. At the age of 12, I attended the Alvin Ailey Summer Program at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County. To add on, during my first year of high school, I was on my school's Color Guard team called the Chattonettes. We performed in school football games, pep rallies, and a Pollo Tropical sponsored grand opening event. My inspiration comes from my mother, who has loved dancing since her elementary school years. She was known to be the "dancer of the family" and has now passed the torch to me. During middle school, she also participated in Drama and performed at the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair. Her past experiences in dance have motivated me to pursue my career. Before every dance class, she reminds me to "DANCE BIG!" Dance and performing have always been stress relievers. When dancing, I feel like I am on top of the world. I can always rely on dance to make me feel joyful. Dance class is something that I forever look forward to attending. Dancing has positively impacted my life by allowing me to express myself freely. By attending a university, it will help me to gain the necessary tools and resources in order to strive in the dance world. I am currently the President of the K-Pop Division within the Asian Culture Club at my school. I wish to participate in dance clubs involving K-Pop during my time in college. I am looking forward to all of the possibilities and encouraging others to find their niche in the areas of Art. With hopes of becoming a traveling choreographer, I will motivate and train upcoming dancers and artists. I hope to be involved in Commercial Dance, dance for films/productions, and music videos. Although this will be a challenge, I know I will persevere and succeed.

I am a student born and raised in Miami, Florida with a strong passion for Dance and Performing Arts. I have always wanted to go to college, and it has always been a goal of mine to major in Dance. My great grandfather was born in Nassau, Bahamas. He later resided in Miami, Florida. I am extremely proud of my Bahamian descent and heritage. My mother who is a single parent of both my older sister and I, is very proactive in regards to education. She recently received her Bachelor's as her second degree in Business Administration. My sister received her Master's degree in Special Education and is currently a teacher at an elementary school here in Miami for children with disabilities. She inspires me to help others. I am currently a junior at Miami Palmetto Senior High School with a GPA of 3.5 and enrolled in 4 Honors level classes. I started dancing at the young age of 5. During elementary school, I was a cheerleader for two years. The styles of dance that I have done range from hip hop, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, tap, theatre dance, and acrobats. Throughout my experience, I was in the Company level of dance at two of the most well-known dance studios in Miami. These dance studios were Paramount Studios and Dance Empire Studio. I am currently taking Dance as an elective in my high school, as well as being enrolled in a dance studio outside of school. During my freshman year, I was a part of my school's Color Guard team called The Chatonettes. We performed at many football games and shows. My other interests involving Fine/Performing Arts include singing, theatre, and photography. Presently, I am a Homeroom Representative for my class. This involves updating my homeroom class on events throughout the school. I am also one of the Presidents for the Asian Culture Club/K-Pop Division. One of the obstacles that I face is having social anxiety. This makes it extremely difficult for me to speak in front of others. For example, when going up to speak in front of people, I start to shake, sweat and stutter. My throat and chest feel tight, making it harder to speak. I challenge this fear by being involved in Leadership roles in my school by speaking more in public. This helps me to gain confidence in myself and my public speaking skills. I am looking forward to participating in more public speaking events such as more leadership roles in clubs, dance, and performing arts.