I've never been the type to actively stand out. I was always reserved and fairly quiet. I worked alone when the teacher would recommend working together, or I would find a peaceful place to sit for lunch. My name is Isabella Romero, and I was born in the good old state of New Mexico, nothing fancy, but home. I moved to San Antonio when I was just two years old, and almost instantly was placed in a youth choir where I then remained for eight years. I'm currently rocking the college life and am pursuing a major in music education, but I'm considering switching to musical theatre; no matter what, I will be pursuing music; who knows, maybe I'll end up in a band? Before my mom got married to my dad, she herself was in a band. As a matter of fact, that's how my father first laid eyes on my beautiful mother. My dad pulled his brother aside and told him, "I'm gonna marry that girl," as baffled as my uncle was, and as crazy as my pops may have sounded, he ended up cashing in his luck when he found out she had just gotten out of a relationship with her bassist, and required a manly shoulder to cry on. My dad seized the opportunity; he found his lady, and she fell in love with the guy who would roll her mic chords after rehearsal. I'm a bit of a romantic and find this story to be absolutely rom-com, and it melts my heart every time. Music practically brought them together, and as a matter of fact, on their wedding night, she sang to him this beautiful song, "From this moment, by Shania Twain." I can't imagine where I would be without music; not only does it transcend communicative boundaries, but it brings people together in a way sports never could. I personally don't care for sports, so I'm blessed to know that music was the foundation of my parents' love. Music is precious and precarious; it has an unlikely chance of capturing the same emotions of two different people, and it varies from one person to the next, making it such a beautiful concept. Music also doesn't stop at verbal cues or rely on visuals either; it's simply feeling-based. I am a firm believer in this statement..."Don't hate what you don't understand" -John Lennon. It's an idea that stands true in the belief that we are indeed capable of appreciating something, but we have to allow ourselves to want to appreciate it. Living in this day and age, where there's so much division and tension awaiting us at work, school, or even our own homes, can be exhausting. Ultimately, we lack understanding of one another, and forget that at the end of the day were just humans driven by anger, anxiety, and fear. I understand this idea, and I want to be the light that casts out the dark for others. As of right now i'm actively working on getting on the praise and worship team at my church. I'm under no impression that my voice will reach the whole world, but if I can reach at least my fellow brothers and sisters at service, I know in my heart that their world has been changed for the better.

Hello, my name is Isabella Romero. I recently graduated from high school in Texas, and I’m currently on the path to becoming a college student. I was born in Roswell, New Mexico, along with my two other siblings, and moved to San Antonio when I was just three years old. My parents sought better opportunities beyond our small town and moved us to San Antonio. Thankfully, we found what we needed, and each family member began to thrive. I was always a good singer, using it as an outlet for obstacles. I tried being sporty like my cousin, but it didn't resonate. I enjoyed drawing for a while, but it wasn’t my passion. Finally, I aimed to be the smartest kid in school… Welp, these scholarships aren't gonna write themselves. Eventually, I realized I needed to take a few steps back and consider what it was I could see myself doing long term. So I did the most logical thing and began to sing. My mom knew I had potential as a singer and put me in the San Antonio Children's Choir (CCSA). I wasn't keen on giving up after-school time for rehearsals, but I liked singing and decided to give it a shot. That decision changed my life, leading to 8 years of unforgettable performances in Carmina Burana, holiday shows, and at Carnegie Hall. Once I got to high school, I already had some choral experience, so I joined the choir there too. (Best decision of my life.) In high school, my group earned sweepstakes at UIL for 4 consecutive years. I made the regional choir 3 times, achieved a superior rating at solo and ensemble, and to top it off, I made the Texas All-State choir my senior year. At the end of the day, all of these experiences brought me to where I stand today. I encourage people to pursue their passions, as it can be truly rewarding. Though it’s scary to take risks, sometimes it’s worth it. I’ve been fortunate to have great directors and teachers guiding me, which has allowed me to grow. This scholarship money would bring me one step closer to becoming what I long to be. I’m eager to invest it in my education and take a significant step towards my dream of becoming a music director. So that I too could be the light for those scared to navigate through the dark.