I first learned about Lycoming at a College Fair in my Junior year. The poster board caught my eye because it had 2D and 3D Animation offered as a class, a rare sight! I struck up a conversation with the assistant admissions officer, Heather Mena-Carias, and we immediately hit it off because we found out that we were both Honduran. Not only that, but her bubbly personality and genuine excitement about Lycoming further persuaded me to apply. I even emailed her a few days after with a list of questions about Lycoming, and she answered all of them over a call with great insight and even shared details about her personal life. She also told me to always be proud of myself, for the person I am now, and who I’ll become in the future. It made me smile that someone was rooting for me and my dreams. I don’t often get supported like that, so it meant a lot! Another reason why I’m so interested in Lycoming is because my College & Career Readiness teacher attended Lycoming, and he always talked about their great financial support and small classes that let professors get to know you well. That’s just what I was looking for! I’d get too overwhelmed if I went to a big school, so Lycoming is the perfect size. What I intend to study is Art and Music. Specifically, 3D Animation and Music Composition. As a digital artist and electric bassist I’ve always loved the arts, they allow me to feel fulfilled as a human being. Humans *need* to create things and share them, communicating with each other is so important and that can be done with art and music so beautifully. Art and Music heal people because it leaves them feeling understood. I also love how intertwined art and music is, especially with animation, I can’t wait to compose my own songs and animate my original characters with it! I just know learning how to compose is going to heighten my understanding and love for music even more. Also, I’ve recently visited the campus for Warrior Day on June 11th and I love how walkable it is! Makes me excited to get to my classes already. I’m currently enrolled in Intro to 3D animation, The Power Of Storytelling, Spanish for Heritage Speakers, and Band and Orchestra. I’m beyond excited to take these classes and can’t wait to meet my professors. I plan to pursue becoming a professional animator and electric bassist after college. While I’m not exactly sure where I’ll get a job, I’ll build my portfolio throughout college and network with other artists and musicians to learn more about my field. I know my vision and unwavering passion will get me far, I’ll jump on every opportunity that comes my way! In conclusion, Lycoming College connected with me on a personal level through its staff. Ms.Mena-Carias made me fall in love with Lycoming from the beginning. Lycoming also has excellent art and music classes, a small but dedicated student body and staff, amazing financial aid, and is the college that will push me in channeling my passions into creating something extraordinary!