Three years from now, I will be a Board Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC). For many people, music therapy is a new term. Almost everyone feels moved by music, but not everyone knows that there is an entire healthcare profession based on it! With music, I want to change the world. It all begins with a melody or beat. Music flows through you and makes the impossible become possible. Definition-wise, music therapy is an evidence-based approach to using music to help a client achieve their goals. These goals can be anything: take a few steps, improve speech and communication, promote comfort in stressful situations, etc. The client determines what they need, and the music does the rest! Music can be the gentle push that someone needs to achieve something life-changing, and, more importantly, it is accessible. A melody can follow you everywhere, and a tempo is constantly with you in your heart-- we are made of music. My biggest goal is to bring change to the field of music therapy and how the world sees it. The field is predominantly made up of white, cis-gendered women, and I would love to see that change someday. As I earn my degree to work with older adults in disadvantaged communities, I hope to also speak out about the fact that a world without diversity is not a world at all. A profession without diversity is not a profession either. Music therapy has the potential to change billions of lives, but it has yet to be taken to the disadvantaged communities that need it most. I want to become the change I wish to see. I want to bring music to the communities that need it. I dream to bring families together in harmony and communities together in melody. Music therapy has opened a door for me that I would have never considered crossing through. With my love for songwriting and helping others, I can make a difference in my own unique way. I've found myself in music. I hope to help others find themselves too.

"For years, I've dealt with anxiety. I don't think there is a way to escape the way I feel. I feel like I am stuck with this for life..." That is the way I don't think! It is true that I have always dealt with anxiety, but I don't allow it to define me! Who I am is not determined by what stresses me or worries me. Who I am is determined by how I choose to overcome obstacles and forge my own path. For as long as I can remember, I have always been engulfed in the idea of creating my own peace. Whether it is meditation, learning, exercise, or music, I've always been determined to lead a more present life. Now that I have finished my first year of college, I understand even more how important it is that I learn to clear my mind. There once was a time when I thought anxiety was some sort of monster that I had to fight. I believed that anxiety was wrong, and in turn, I was wrong. Instead of focusing on self-compassion and acceptance, my focus was on trying to rid myself of a piece of who I am. Self-expression has become my saving grace. After years of reading anxiety books and downloading meditation apps, I found something that brings me peace, clears my mind and gives me comfort. When I express myself, I am not tied down to the ideas of who I should be, rather, I am who I am. A few years ago, I wrote a song dedicated to anxiety. I called it, "Find Yourself." It started out as just a way to express myself mid-anxiety attack, but now it has become a tune that I sing to myself whenever I feel worried. The song describes how even in a moment that feels chaotic, you still have control of who you are and what you can accomplish. This is my example of how I clear my mind: "(Verse) In the tidal wave, we find a secret place where you don't have to feel afraid. The sun will rise again. You're found here in heaven. Your arms are always there to embrace. (Chorus) Just try to find yourself. Never let go. You're here- that's all it takes. Forget the bad days. Just try to find yourself. You are in control. You're original. Just try to find yourself." My biggest tip to anyone with anxiety will always be to find yourself. Be who you are, and express who you are. There is nothing more mindful or present than simply being. For me, the arts are a resource that allows me to clear my mind. For someone else, that resource can be anything. In the face of my anxiety, I am not afraid. To this day, I am still learning how to be present and working on it constantly, but with the power of self-expression, I know that my anxiety does not define me.

Growing up Latinx, emphasis was always placed on the importance of getting a good career that would make my family proud. For the adults around me, that meant becoming a lawyer, surgeon, real-estate agent, or anything they deemed "luxurious" enough. In my eyes, what mattered more was passion and what I found fulfilling. Because of this, I've always wanted to pursue music. A career means nothing if you don't find any joy in it. I've always wanted to feel that what I am doing is making a difference. So, though I could go to law school and someday become a lawyer, I choose to follow down the path I am passionate about-- the path which leads to music therapy. Not many people outside of the arts understand what music therapy is, yet. Music therapists are often confused for performers, recreational activity planners, and anything but what they actually are. The truth is, a music therapist is exactly what the name entails: a therapist, who uses music. They are healthcare workers that merge the power of music with the data of science to make real change within their communities. It sounds incredible, and that is exactly why I want to be a part of the field in the future. The arts are special to me because they are deeply meaningful for many. The arts create a connection within communities that is powerful. We don't often talk about how influential music is on a deeper level. For many individuals all over the world, music is a driving force. Music gives a voice to the voiceless and brings comfort to those who need it. And as a future music therapist, I have the ability to play a role in the change that music can bring to countless individuals' lives. With my voice, guitar, and music education, I can help others reach goals that they never thought they could. This is why having a career in the arts is important to me. Some individuals in the arts wish to make music for the world; I wish to make music with my community. The truth is, if you are going to dedicate your life to a career, you should make it a career that you can be excited about. Music therapy is that career, for me. As someone who has grown up with music in my heart, I hope to soon help others share the music that lives in their heart. Music therapy is going to change the world, and I can't wait to be a part of that change!

Empathy begins within our own minds, but it is our actions that show empathy to the world around us. I believe that empathy is not just about the ability to be understanding of others, but it is also about the ability to stand up for others. There are individuals in many communities that can't stand up for themselves. They may be in bad circumstances that limit their ability to be seen and acknowledged in our world, or simply ignored by society. With empathy in our lives, it is important that we see those populations and stand up for them when they cannot stand. Personally, this is how I treat others with empathy. If I see an individual who needs support, I try my best to be that rock of support for them. We often mistake empathy for seeing a person's situation and wishing the best for them, when empathy can be much more. Empathy is asking yourself, "how can I change this?" or "how can I show this person that I believe in them?" Empathy is an action that you take to stand up for others and support your community. If I see a student being bullied, I try to intervene. If I see an individual who looks uncomfortable and unsafe, I try to guide them to safety. Empathy is a superpower in a world where many people are struggling. With my definition of empathy, I hope to remind others that there is hope and that they are not alone.

"Actually, I can" is an album created by my artist, Nazzy. The album describes my first semester of college and follows my journey with becoming confident in myself. Being a first-generation student, the hardest part of my first semester of college was trusting myself. I thought that because I didn't have a huge support system behind me, I wouldn't survive college. The truth was far from that, though. Since beginning college, I've learned that I can achieve all of my goals because being a first-gen student does not define my limitations. Only I get to decide what I can and cannot achieve. To a world that tells students that college is "too hard," and that we cannot achieve our dreams, I say, "actually, I can." The songs in my album are: 1. "After The Storm" by Kali Uchis, featuring Tyler, The Creator, & Bootsy Collins. - This song was my self-empowerment anthem going into college. The song reminded me that no matter what troubles come my way if I fight through, there will be a rainbow after the storm. 2. "Oh No!" by Marina. - This song describes how, early on, I had my college goals set. No matter what others said to me, I knew what I wanted from my education and I was determined to get it. 3. "Still Feel." by Half Alive. - Just like "After The Storm," this song was an anthem for me about surviving college and being okay after accomplishing all of the things I was terrified of. I survived midterms, working multiple jobs, essays, and projects! "Still Feel" reminded me that it's okay to celebrate those little victories. 4. "Almost There" by Anika Noni Rose. - I got to a certain point in the semester where I felt burnt out. This song cheered me on as I celebrated my semester almost being over. I was ready to finally rest and look back on my semester with an "I did that." 5. "Happy" by Marina. - This song speaks to my experience with finding myself during my first semester of college. I grew confident, achieved all of the goals I set for myself and learned so much about who I am as an individual. I am happy knowing that I've made it this far and that I am one inch closer to earning my degree. Four years from now, I will still be able to say, "Actually, I can." College as a first-generation student is hard, but it isn't impossible. I am grateful for my experience and can't wait to see where it leads me.

Our lives are comprised of the little things: birds chirping in the early morning, that favorite meal for dinner, holding hands with that special person, etc. It's the little things that combine to make the "big pictures" in our lives, and those little things are what work together to make each and every day special. I've always been a person that focuses on small details rather than the big picture. Before I notice the overall point of something, I will understand what tiny details coexist to create that point. This is also how I find my sense of happiness every day. Before saying, "today is a good day," I will feel overjoyed about the light flurries falling in the morning and the friend that always joins me at the same time for dinner! I proudly grasp the small details of my day that make me grin under my face mask. Then, when the day ends, I get the joy of looking back at every simple pleasure that molds together, and I finally feel allowed to say, "today was a good day!" There are so many things in life that we take for granted: friendship, support, petting dogs, etc. These things, and hundreds more, are the simple pleasures in my life that bring me joy every day because they are a reminder that no matter what happens, life carries on. Flurries still fall, birds still sing, friendships still bloom, and every day the sun still rises. It's the little things in life.

"Runaway" by Aurora is the kind of song that you fall in love with on the first listen. This was the case for me. When I first listened to the song, I was folding laundry in my room and listening to a random playlist on YouTube. I knew the chorus from Tik Tok, but I had never thought to listen to the entire song. The song was beautiful, and I simply felt touched by the sounds I heard. Music with emotion empowers me, and there is nothing but emotion and authenticity in Aurora's music. Runaway inspires me because the song tells a story. It is a vulnerable tale of a moment in Aurora's life that encourages me to also be authentically myself. I feel that music should always be an authentic expression of an artist's life, but this isn't something that is done often. When I come across music that is truthful and vulnerable, I am moved. I am reminded that I have the choice to live my life as authentically as I wish. There is beauty in the ability to stay true to yourself, and Runaway inspires me to do just that: tell my story in my own way.

I sit in the back of the hotel lobby, looking out the window every few minutes. For the past four months, I was in school across the country. I really missed my family. I see the airport shuttle drive up to the front entrance of the hotel, and I watch as my mom and brother step out. They walk into the hotel and go up to the front desk, and my mom turns around. I run up to her and give her the biggest hug! Hugging my mom for the first time in months felt so special to me.

Our lives are comprised of the little things: birds chirping in the early morning, that favorite meal for dinner, holding hands with that special person, etc. It's the little things that combine to make the "big pictures" in our lives, and those little things are what work together to make each and every day special. I've always been a person that focuses on small details rather than the big picture. Before I notice the overall point of something, I will understand what tiny details coexist to create that point. This is also how I find my sense of happiness every day. Before saying, "today is a good day," I will feel overjoyed about the light flurries falling in the morning and the friend that always joins me at the same time for dinner! I proudly grasp the small details of my day that make me grin under my face mask. Then, when the day ends, I get the joy of looking back at every simple pleasure that molds together, and I finally feel allowed to say, "today was a good day!" There are so many things in life that we take for granted: friendship, support, petting dogs, etc. These things, and hundreds more, are the simple pleasures in my life that bring me joy every day because they are a reminder that no matter what happens, life carries on. Flurries still fall, birds still sing, friendships still bloom, and every day the sun still rises. It's the little things in life.

Self-care has to be my best friend. Though this hasn't been the case, college has taught me to reinvent the way I prioritize self-care. Since day one of beginning my music therapy coursework, professors, professionals, and friends have told me that I need to care for myself more, but I never really listened. I continued working two jobs on top of my full-time student credit hours, and slowly learned the true importance of self-care. How does self-care impact my life? It has brought me back to life. After about two months of college, I felt myself lose my daily energy. I was sluggish 24/7 and began to consider leaving college altogether. It wasn't like me at all. I realized that I was intensely overworking myself to the point of burnout, something that accumulated because of a year of non-stop hard work since the pandemic. I made it a new priority to feel like myself once again and to get my life back. After all, my college years are meant to be enjoyed! My self-care journey began with journaling. I wanted to allow myself the chance to be vulnerable in a world where I constantly feel the need to hold my guard up. I journaled to guided prompts about my childhood, hardest challenges, and greatest moments. I gave myself permission to not always feel okay, and it helped me to blossom. From then on, my experience with self-care improved. I began going on more walks in nature, petting dogs, and finding joy in the little things. Though it was challenging to recognize that taking breaks is just as important as any homework assignment or paycheck, I am finally myself again. Self-care skills will follow me for the rest of my life and well into my career as a music therapist!

My favorite artist is my friend, Crow. As odd as this may sound, I don't believe fame is what defines an artist. Rather, an artist is defined by the passion they express. Crow is an artist who uses creativity to make their visions come to life, and it is deeply beautiful and personal.

I've been in love with music since the day I was born. I've grown up singing in choirs, playing guitar, and dancing. It has been my saving grace. About four or five years ago, I had my first encounter with depression. It was odd, for me. I've always been a very upbeat person, yet for years of my life, I struggled deeply. Music was the only thing that would bring me joy. I would listen to music everywhere I went, and I talked about music nonstop. It made me feel valuable, important, and honestly, alive. I knew that if music made me feel as enchanted as it did, then I am meant to be alive to share it. This is my origin story when it comes to mental health. Music has been my saving grace, even when I never knew it, myself. After my own experiences with mental health and experiencing the loss of a friend to suicide in 2020, my ultimate goal is to make mental health a bigger priority in others' lives. No more lives should have to be lost to suicide, and no one else should have to silently struggle with their mental health. I am fighting for change in my community. Our society needs greater access to mental health services—particularly Music Therapy. The STEM practice is still being discovered by many, and because of that, the service is rarely offered. Music is a moving force that has kept so many people alive, including me. I came across Music Therapy during my junior year while I was researching different mental health-related majors and instantly fell in love with the mere idea of the practice. Psychology and music have always been two interests of mine, and it excited me to know that I can merge the two. But, even greater than that, I know that Music Therapy has a potential that has yet to be unlocked. The practice can save lives. I’ve always wanted to create something bigger than myself and make a difference. This is what motivates me. Music Therapy is so new and underestimated that the practice isn’t offered in many areas. I wish to change this! Urban communities like mine don’t yet have access to Music Therapy, even though it is so desperately needed. Healthcare, particularly mental health services, are needed now, more than ever in disadvantaged communities. This is why I am going to school. I dream to bring Music Therapy to my community and make a difference where it is needed. Our society needs a change. We need greater access to mental health services. No other lives should have to be lost to suicide. This fall, I begin my journey towards this dream of mine. Every second that I attend a lecture, write an essay or take notes, I am doing it for my community. I am working hard in my major so that I can soon be the change that I wish to see in my community. Our society needs more affordable access to mental health services. Past school, I plan to take Music Therapy to local hospitals and hospices to comfort patients as I save to open my own practice. It surely won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. I believe that with Music Therapy, I can change lives within my community. It all begins now, with my education. For the next five years, I will be working as hard as I can to create something bigger than myself. The end goal is change.

"Question everything." This is what I was told during my junior year of high school. At first glance, I did not understand the power behind those two words, but now, I've grown to recognize this quote as my own personal narrative for life. Where would we be today if it weren't for the brave souls throughout history who chose to question everything? Having the ability to question and rethink the world around us is a tool that can be used for the best! This quote has taught me to not just accept the status quo, but rather, should re-define the status quo with my own unique perspective of the world! When my public speaking professor spoke those words to me on the first day of class, I was swept into a completely new perspective. Ther is power in the ability to question everything. I decided from that day forward that I would not just achieve my goals through hard work, but also through questioning everything around me and being brave enough to make change where change is needed. I wish to follow my passion and become a music therapist. With the motivation that my public speaking professor instilled in me, I now plan to be a change-maker in the field by spreading the practice to areas that don't have access. I shouldn't be afraid of evolving or reforming things that must be changed. I should dare to make a change. After all, it is through change and evolution that the world grows more compassionate and stronger. There are beauty and power within the ability to question everything and be the change that you wish to see in the world. I wish to be the change and better yet, create change through questioning everything.

It was June 14th, 2020. I woke up and checked my phone. I read the news that no person wants to receive: On June 13th, my best friend took her life. I was shocked and filled with more emotion than I had the strength to describe. Though grief is only five letters long, it takes the entire alphabet to describe the feelings that overcome you when you lose someone. Grief was the only emotion that I could feel for months of my life. Losing someone to suicide makes you want to change the world. It makes you want to fight for change. I needed to make a difference. Our society does not have enough resources for teenagers. Often, when generation-z seeks support, they search the internet, only to find resources provided from the eyes of older adults. It makes us feel alone. The suicide of my friend inspired me to be the change that I wish to see. I spent the three days after my friend's death trying to make something good out of the pain and confusion that I was feeling. On June 16th, 2020, I created Blossoming Youth, which is a teen mental health blog that provides a safe space for generation-z and is changing how we address mental health. For over a year, I’ve written weekly blog posts about topics that impact my generation. I've written about stress, body image, suicide awareness, and much more. My goal is to empower my generation with the strength to speak up more often. Our mental health matters. This year, I’ve begun interviewing gen-z members across the country to provide a safe space for expression. Having a platform for expression normalizes the fact that it's okay to struggle! Blossoming youth was created to be different from the mental health resources that are written by adults. Blossoming Youth is a safe space created for my generation. I can't bring back my best friend, but I can fight to change how we address mental illness. I wish to remind my generation that they are never alone in what they face. Mental health matters.

Giving back is something that brings the community together through one common cause: love. There is no greater love than the one that you can find outside your own front door. Everyone is looking out for one another and trying to create something good in this world. Living in the Metro Atlanta area, I see this firsthand each and every day. Despite how the world may see urban communities like mine, I know the goodness that really lies within it. I've seen so much kindness in the people around me. This is why in the future, I plan to repay my community for all the blessings that they've given me. In June of 2020, I lost a friend to suicide. Her loss was devastating, and it made me realize something important about the world: We do not prioritize mental health enough. Mental health is a concern in communities all over the world, but it is rarely given attention in underrepresented and underserved communities. This leads to higher suicide rates in urban communities. I want to bring change where change is needed by bringing mental health services to Metro Atlanta. It could save lives. I'd like to grow up to be a music therapist and make the practice more accessible for people of color in communities like mine. No life should have to be lost to suicide. Everyone should have access to mental health services! I've noticed that the average Music Therapy client is white or wealthy. This is because of the lack of affordability and access to Music Therapy in urban areas. The few mental health services that do exist within the walls of my community are overly expensive! My community deserves to see mental health practices that actually care for the well-being of the community, rather than making a huge profit. This is why I plan to someday open my own Music Therapy practice where I can serve and assist my fellow people of color. I firmly believe that now, more than ever, my community needs healthcare services that are accessible and affordable. I can create the change that I so desperately wish to see. Being Latina, I've seen the discrimination that can lie within the healthcare system towards people of color. My brothers and sisters deserve access to affordable healthcare, and I intend to bring it. I plan to make Music Therapy more accessible in urban communities like mine and empower my community, one therapy session at a time. I can be the change that I wish to see in my community, and it starts right now, with my education. I am not just receiving an education for myself. I am receiving my education for the community that I love dearly. Change will come.

Giving back is something that brings the community together through one common cause: love. There is no greater love than the one that you can find outside your own front door. Everyone is looking out for one another and trying to create something good in this world. Living in the Metro Atlanta area, I see this firsthand each and every day. Despite how the world may see urban communities like mine, I know the goodness that really lies within it. I've seen so much kindness in the people around me. This is why in the future, I plan to "pay it forward," and repay my community for all the blessings that they've given me. There have been so many people in my community who have helped me to grow into the person I am today. From county workers who would deliver lunch meals to my house throughout the pandemic, to community leaders who have taught me to work hard for the dreams that I have, I've always known that I'm supported by those around me. It's shown even more throughout my senior year of high school. One person in particular who has blessed me with their support is a previous graduate from my high school, Salem High School. Jordan Newton graduated from Salem High School in 2019 as the salutatorian of her class. Now, she's in the Army. She reached out to me in June of 2020 to catch up after a common friend had lost her life. Once we connected, she became the mentor that I didn't know I needed. Being both Latina and coming from homes where education isn't seen as important, we instantly bonded. Jordan pushed me to do my best in the midst of a virtual senior year of high school. She was my guide through submitting fourteen college applications, over 100 scholarship applications, and fitting in all of my schoolwork. She gave me advice on how to pick a school that fits me and how to emotionally deal with the nervousness of graduating into a new phase of life. Now, we remain close friends and we still cheer each other on to pursue our dreams. Her guidance continued all the way through my high school graduation, where I got to give my own salutatorian speech, just like she did, two years before! Then finally, she blessed me with all of her dorm supplies from her time at Agusta University. When I asked how I could repay her for everything that she did for me, she simply told me to find someone that I believe in, and give them all of my support, just like she did for me. That statement really impacted me; I realized how much my community has supported me, even when I felt that I didn't deserve it. Now, I want to make sure that my future is dedicated to honoring the same community that has raised me into who I am today. The friend who brought me and Jordan together was another young community member, Kris, who took her life in June of 2020. Her loss was devastating. Between the grief of losing a friend and the inspiration of feeling so empowered by Jordan and the people within my community, I decided how I wish to "pay it forward." I want to bring change where change is needed by bringing mental health services to Metro Atlanta. I'd like to grow up to be a music therapist and make the practice more accessible for people of color in communities like mine. I've noticed that the average Music Therapy client is white or wealthy. This is because of the lack of affordability and access to Music Therapy in urban areas. The few mental health services that do exist within the walls of my community are overly expensive! My community deserves to see mental health practices that actually care for the well-being of the community, rather than making a huge profit. I would like to someday open my own Music Therapy practice where I can serve and assist my fellow people of color. I firmly believe that now, more than ever, my community needs healthcare services that are accessible and affordable. I can create the change. Being Latina, I've seen the discrimination that can lie within the healthcare system towards people of color. My brothers and sisters deserve access to affordable healthcare, and I intend to bring it. I plan to make Music Therapy more accessible in urban communities like mine and empower my community, one therapy session at a time. Just like Jordan asked, I will pay my blessings forward to my community: full of people who I believe in. I can be the change that I wish to see in my community, and it starts right now, with my education.

Please see the video below. The pandemic has brought its blessings by changing my outlook on life. I now hope to be a Music Therapist so that I may make mental health services more accessible to people of color in communities like mine. The pandemic taught me to fight for what I'm passionate about: making mental health a priority within my community.

I've been in love with music since the day I was born. I've grown up singing in choirs, playing guitar, and dancing. It has been my saving grace. About four or five years ago, I had my first encounter with depression. It was odd, for me. I've always been a very upbeat person, yet for years of my life, I struggled deeply. Music was the only thing that would bring me joy. I would listen to music everywhere I went and I talked about music nonstop. It made me feel valuable, important, and honestly, alive. I knew that if music made me feel as enchanted as it did, then I am meant to be alive to share it. This is my origin story when it comes to mental health. Music has been my saving grace, even when I never knew it, myself. My journey with mental health has never been linear, rather, it's been everywhere that I've never expected it to go. Despite this, I'm grateful for it. Between my own struggles and the struggles of others around me, mental health and music have become two passions of mine that I simply want to combine together. My sudden depression grew worse during my freshman year of high school. Even though I excelled in the classroom, I was never myself. I struggled with suicidal thoughts and finding the motivation to carry out my goals. It was confusing. I was confused. For years, it didn't make sense to me why I struggled so harshly. Despite all this, music was always there for me. I eventually began seeing a therapist, and she made me realize that music has been my saving grace. I began to finally feel like myself again after two long years of crying on the therapy couch and eating the chocolate pieces in the candy jar in my therapist's office! I felt lighter on my feet. Little did I know, though, that my journey with mental health was only beginning. In June of 2020, I lost my friend and "school mom," Kris, to suicide. This was the tipping point in my life. I was finally free from the chains of depression, thanks to years of therapy, but my best friend, who I never knew struggled, was not. All at once, I felt a whirlwind of emotions. I was angry at myself for not being able to save my friend, but also angry at the world for not treating others with the kindness they deserve. Losing someone to suicide makes you want to change the world. It makes you want to make sure that no other life is ever lost again. So, I decided on June 16th, 2020, that I would dedicate my life to mental health services. I began a mental health blog to spread awareness of mental health issues, but it wasn't enough. In fact, blogging has only been my beginning. I still continue to see my therapist to work through my own personal struggles, but am also working to completely rearrange the way mental health services work as a system. Maybe more lives would be saved if mental health services became more accessible. My goal is to become a certified music therapist that can bring Music Therapy to disadvantaged communities. I feel that music should be everywhere, rather than just in higher-class, suburban communities. Mental health services belong everywhere. Music belongs everywhere. Yet, access to Music Therapy is extremely limited in my community and many others. I dream to be the change that I wish to see in the world by bringing music and mental health services to the community that I love. The plan is to go to school to study Music Therapy and eventually become the independent practice owner that I dream to be, and I know that it can make a difference. Maybe I can't change the world, but I can spark change within my community. Music Therapy can be life-changing for millions of people if we could only give it a chance by making it accessible. Music saved me by giving me something to hold onto. I wish to share the exact same gift with others. I want the creation of more mental health services to be my contribution to the world, in honor of Kris. Anyone and everyone can hold onto music. It can save lives, and I intend to share it. As long as I am alive, I will continue to fight for more accessible mental health services, not just in my community, but everywhere.

I've been in love with music since the day I was born. I've grown up singing in choirs, playing guitar, and dancing. It has been my saving grace. About four or five years ago, I had my first encounter with depression. It was odd, for me. I've always been a very upbeat person, yet for years of my life, I struggled deeply. Music was the only thing that would bring me joy. I would listen to music everywhere I went and I talked about music nonstop. It made me feel valuable, important, and honestly, alive. I knew that if music made me feel as enchanted as it did, then I am meant to be alive to share it. The power of self-expression is my everything. Art speaks what words cannot always express. I like to express myself through any art form possible, whether it be dancing, singing, acting, or performing. I believe that we empower ourselves when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable through self-expression. Music has been my saving grace, even when I never knew it, myself. My sudden depression grew worse during my freshman year of high school. Even though I excelled in the classroom, I was never myself. I struggled with suicidal thoughts and finding the motivation to carry out my goals. Despite all this, music was always there for me. I eventually began seeing a therapist, and she made me realize that music has been my saving grace. Ever since my junior year, I've wanted to become a Music Therapist. With the way the arts have saved me, I am inspired to use the arts to help others around me, as well. After the experience I've had with depression, it is my ultimate goal. The goal is to become a certified music therapist that can bring Music Therapy to disadvantaged communities. I feel that music should be everywhere, rather than just in higher-class, suburban communities. Music belongs everywhere. Yet, access to Music Therapy is extremely limited in my community and many others. I dream to be the change that I wish to see in the world by bringing music and mental health services to the community that I love. I plan to go to school to study Music Therapy and eventually become the independent practice owner that I dream to be, and I know that it can make a difference. Music Therapy can be life-changing for millions of people if we could only give it a chance by making it accessible. Music saved me by giving me something to hold onto. I wish to share the exact same gift with others. Anyone and everyone can hold onto music. It can save lives, and I intend to share it.

Science is the backbone of everything and can make anything possible. I plan to major in Music Therapy in the fall of 2021. While that might not sound like a STEM career at first glance, the practice actually combines science (biology and chemistry), psychology, and music to create a uniquely beautiful field that has the potential to save billions of lives. I am passionate about Music Therapy and wish to use it to change lives. Music Therapy is a powerful study that can help others who struggle with emotional, physical, and social impairments. In my eyes, the best part of the practice is the results that arise within individuals. With the study, I can work at hospitals, schools, and at my end goal: my own private practice. A degree in Music Therapy means more to me than just a decent salary; I am passionate about all that Music Therapy can do for those in my community. Studying STEM is something that matters to me because I will be able to do something incredible: Saving lives. My ultimate goal is to become a certified music therapist and to bring Music Therapy to my community. I come from an urban community that is home to thousands of people of color. Communities like mine have yet to be given access to needed mental health services. The practice has been proven to be beneficial in multiple ways, but Music Therapy has yet to be given the recognition that it deserves! In my eyes, it is heartbreaking to know that my community does not have access to the practice because of how untraditional it still is. I strive to change this. With Music Therapy, I want to be a blessing to others. I wish to help children express themselves and the elderly regain their sense of strength. The practice is powerful and I wish to share it with all. So, I plan to go to college to major in Music Therapy and within four years, intern alongside other music therapists and take the certification exam to become the certified music therapist I dream to be! By studying Music Therapy, I get to learn the incredible studies behind how music can impact others. Through that time period, I plan to prepare myself to open my own practice in my hometown of Conyers, Georgia, and make Music Therapy affordable and accessible. I will not rest until I have brought the gift of Music Therapy to the community that I love. Music Therapy deserves to be shared with the world and I intend to share it with all. This is my ultimate goal, which I know I will achieve if I continue to work hard for it. A degree in Music Therapy means a lot to me. With the degree, I will forge my career of owning my own private practice and saving lives one session at a time. I am in love with all that Music Therapy can do and I plan to bring the practice to all of the deserving communities just like mine.

I’m often told that I am just like my mom. When she was in high school, she was determined to go to college no matter what struggles she faced. She didn’t get into her dream school, and she struggled financially to make it into most schools where she lived, so, she ended up taking out two loans and attending Florida International University. She thrived in an academic setting, up until she gave birth to her oldest child, me. My mom used to take me to class with her and balanced life as a super-mom well! I would chug bottles of formula while she attended lectures and finished essays, but it eventually became too much for her to bear. A professor convinced her to take a “break” from school, and so, she did. This led to her never returning to school or getting the degree that she dreamed of. Now, she still pays back the loans for an education that she never got to complete. For me, attending college is more than just a personal goal. It is about being the first to finish this milestone for my family. As the oldest child, I have three younger siblings following behind me, and I want to make sure that if they intend to follow me, I intend to head in the right direction. I have the beautiful opportunity to set a good example for my siblings and achieve this dream for my mom. There is a lot of pressure on me to be the best version of myself that I could possibly be, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. There have been days where I’ve struggled mentally due to the stress upon me, but I’ve learned that sometimes it is through uncertainty and discomfort that we truly grow. I am grateful for every experience that I’ve encountered throughout my academic career so far. This is only the beginning. I plan to bring the practice of Music Therapy to disadvantaged communities like mine that lack access to mental health services. With Music Therapy I can benefit not only my siblings but my community. After all, my community is my family as well. Going to school is a financial risk, but it is one worth taking. My family worries about me going to college this fall because they fear that I will follow in my mom’s footsteps and be stuck in massive debt with no degree. And, truth be told, it is scary knowing that if I am financially burdened, my family cannot support me. This is when I remind myself of one thing: While I am just like my mom, her struggles do not define me, and I have the power to break generational cycles. I intend to earn my degree in Music Therapy to benefit my community and show my siblings that they can achieve anything that they put their minds to. At the end of it all, my future is theirs too.

"Question everything." This is what I was told during my junior year of high school. At first glance, I did not understand the power behind those two words, but now, I've grown to recognize this quote as my own personal narrative for life. Where would we be today if it weren't for the brave souls throughout history who chose to question everything? Having the ability to question and rethink the world around us is a tool that can be used for the best! When one questions things, innovation occurs. This quote has taught me to not just accept the status quo, but rather, I should re-define the status quo with my own unique perspective of the world! When my public speaking professor spoke those words to me on the first day of class, I was swept into a completely new perspective of living. Why hadn't I realized before that there are so much beauty and power within the ability to question the things around you? I decided from that day forward that I would not just achieve my goals through hard work, but also through questioning everything around me and being brave enough to make change where change is needed. I wish to follow my passions and become a music therapist. With the motivation that my public speaking professor instilled in me, I now plan to be a change-maker in the field by spreading the practice to areas that do not have access. I will continue to question everything throughout my life. I am motivated by the idea that I shouldn't be afraid of evolving or reforming things that must be changed. After all, it is through change and evolution that the world grows more compassionate and stronger. There are beauty and power within the ability to question everything and be the change that you wish to see in the world. I wish to be the change and better yet, create change through questioning everything.

My grandparents came to America from Cuba and later had my mom. Despite being in America for so long, their culture never left my family. My grandparents still enjoy "cafe con pan" on their patio every morning just like they did in Cuba. They still only speak Spanish and love tropical fruits. Their culture is a part of who they are, and it is because of that that they have never changed. My mom grew up in Miami, Florida with my grandparents, and she is a lot like me, in a way. She grew up singing in choirs and excelling in English class despite having to learn the language from school. Later in life, my mom couldn't finish school. She had me, and she realized that there was something more important than school: family. She tried to bring me with her to school! I would sit in her classes chugging bottles of formula while she balanced life as a student and supermom. Unfortunately, she couldn't balance it for long. My mom left school in 2003 and hasn't returned since. Now, she still pays back the loans for an education that she never got to finish. For me, attending college is more than just a personal goal. It is about being the first to finish this milestone for my family. As the oldest child, I have three younger siblings following behind me, and I want to make sure that if they intend to follow me, I intend to head in the right direction. I have the beautiful opportunity to set a good example for my siblings and achieve this dream for my mom. I even got accepted into her dream school! While I don’t know which school I will be selecting yet from those that have accepted me, I know that whichever it is, I will earn my degree for both myself and my family through hard work and dedication. We are a family of six, so finances can often be tight. Going to school is a financial risk, but it is one worth taking. My family worries about me going to school because they fear that I will follow in my mom’s footsteps and be stuck in massive debt. And, truth be told, it is scary knowing that if I am financially burdened, my family cannot support me. This is when I remind myself of one thing: While I am just like my mom, her struggles do not define me, and I have the power to break generational cycles. I'd like to grow up to be a music therapist and make the practice more accessible for people of color. I've noticed that the average Music Therapy client is typically white. This is because of the lack of affordability and access to Music Therapy in more urban areas. I would like to begin my own music therapy practice where I can serve and assist my fellow people of color. I firmly believe that now, more than ever, my community needs healthcare services that are accessible and affordable. I can be the change that I wish to see in the world.

Being a first-generation student has opened my eyes. My grandparents came to America from Cuba and later had my mom. Despite being in America for so long, their culture never left my family. They still only speak Spanish and love tropical fruits. My mom grew up in Miami, Florida with my grandparents, and she is a lot like me, in a way. She grew up singing in choirs and excelling in English class despite having to learn the language from school. Later in life, my mom couldn't finish school. She had me, and she realized that there was something more important than school: family. She tried to bring me with her to class! I would sit in her classes chugging bottles of formula while she balanced life as a student and supermom. Unfortunately, she couldn't balance it for long. My mom left school in 2003 and hasn't returned since. Now, she still pays back the loans for an education that she never got to finish. For me, attending college is more than just a personal goal. It is about being the first to finish this milestone for my family. As the oldest child, I have three younger siblings following behind me, and I want to make sure that if they intend to follow me, I intend to head in the right direction. I have the beautiful opportunity to set a good example for my siblings and achieve this dream for my mom. I even got accepted into her dream school! I will earn my degree for both myself and my family through hard work and dedication. We are a family of six, so finances can often be tight. Going to school is a financial risk, but it is one worth taking. My family worries about me going to school because they fear that I will follow in my mom’s footsteps and be stuck in massive debt. And, truth be told, it is scary knowing that if I am financially burdened, my family cannot support me. This is when I remind myself of one thing: While I am just like my mom, her struggles do not define me, and I have the power to break generational cycles. I'd like to grow up to be a music therapist and make the practice more accessible for people of color. I've noticed that the average Music Therapy client is typically white. This is because of the lack of affordability and access to Music Therapy in more urban areas. I would like to begin my own music therapy practice where I can serve and assist my fellow people of color. I firmly believe that now, more than ever, my community needs healthcare services that are accessible and affordable. I can be the change that I wish to see in the world. Being Hispanic, I've seen the discrimination that can lie within the healthcare system. My Latinx brothers and sisters deserve access to affordable healthcare, and I intend to bring it. I plan to make mental health services more accessible in urban communities like mine and empower my community, one session at a time.

My most current and ongoing creation is a blog that I began in June of 2020, called Blossoming Youth. Blossoming Youth is a mental health blog designed to bring awareness to important mental health topics that deserve more attention. This is my way of supporting my generation and bringing awareness to the things that matter. I consider this my greatest achievement to date. This is because I know that I've created something that will outlive me. With my blog, I've created a safe place for teens all over the world to find comfort, express thoughts, and spread awareness. I am motivated by the idea of what the world could become. For almost a year, I've been dedicating myself to breaking stigmas about teen mental health. It is a passion of mine. The teen suicide rate is too high. One loss to suicide is too much. This is why I believe in the power of using my voice. Creating a website about such a raw topic was uncomfortable for me. I knew that I wanted to be the change that I wish to see in the world, but I was horrified of vulnerability. This experience taught me a lot about myself and my core values. I realized that to achieve my goals and grow, I must be okay with being uncomfortable sometimes. I believe that we grow when we dare to step out of our comfort zones. In the end, facing my anxiety and creating my website was the best decision I've ever made. Since beginning Blossoming Youth, I've had the opportunity to learn, educate others, and inspire others. I've interviewed teens from around the country and have been blessed enough to give them a platform where they can share their stories. For me, what truly matters is that I can inspire others with the work that I do. My blog is not world-renowned or famous, but I feel that it is just as special and unique. My approximately 100 readers are like family to me, and it has been an honor to educate others and spread awareness of mental health issues. In the future, I never want to stop my working on my passions. I want to keep spreading awareness and touching hearts until I can make a change within my community. My blog will always be a part of me, even as I continue to work in other professions. My ultimate goal is to become a certified music therapist and bring Music Therapy to my community, which lacks access. Music Therapy is a life-changing science-based approach to mental health services, but for far too long has been inaccessible and expensive, particularly for people of color. My urban community, consisting of mostly people of color, deserves affordable access to Music Therapy. I strive to provide it. I believe in being the change that I wish to see in the world, and I will continuously work towards it. My blog is only the beginning, and I am so proud of the start that it has given me. My greatest achievement is pushing past my comfort zone and creating Blossoming Youth, a platform for all teens to learn, share, and grow.

My little sister held a phone in her hand for the first time in 2016 at the age of one, but my first experience with a phone was at the age of eleven. The times have changed, and our use of technology has only increased since the creation of the smartphone. When I received my first phone, it was a gift from my father, who was leaving home. He bought me the phone so that we could stay in touch when he was far away. Since that first day, the smartphone has always benefited me. Smartphones can create more harm than good, but what makes the difference is when a user makes the conscious choice to be responsible with technology. Having a smartphone all throughout middle school and high school helped me immensely. It allowed me to remain in contact with my mother who was always working and my father who was miles away. It also gave me the security of knowing that if I was ever in danger, I could call for help. At the young age of eleven, I felt that I was holding the entire world in my hands. That quickly changed as I grew older, and I learned a valuable lesson. By the time I was age thirteen or fourteen, my phone was more socially engaged. I was using a text messaging app, "Kik," to create group chats with the kids in my classes. At first, it was entertaining to speak with my friends, up until the harsh reality of the internet hit. At random, the messaging app I used was being flooded with inappropriate images from strangers. I was horrified. I didn't know what I did wrong or who caused it, but I quickly got rid of the app and vowed to myself to better research the applications that I used from that day on. Now, I am grateful for what the smartphone can do. I know that as long as I am responsible, mature, and skeptical, then the smartphone can be beneficial. Now that I am eighteen, my experience with smartphones is a bit different. I use my smartphone for speaking with family, networking, and researching, among other things. My biggest responsibility is the act of being responsible with my smartphone. I must ensure that I don't allow my smartphone to distract me, whether I am in class, at home, or in the car. When I am behind the wheel, my responsibility to be responsible persists, in fact, it becomes even more crucial. My actions behind the wheel can determine both my fate and the fate of those around me. This is why I firmly believe in "disconnecting," when necessary. The smartphone is a wondrous tool that my generation has access to, and as long as we remain responsible, mature, and skeptical, we can remain safe.

A legacy is what you leave behind. Each and every person leaves behind some sort of legacy when they pass. It does not matter whether you are 18 or 80; we all make some sort of impact on the world around us. What matters to me is that I leave a legacy of light. Each and every day we all have a chance to create a good legacy and be a blessing to those around us. I want to change the world. It can sound naive, considering I am just one eighteen-year-old girl, but I believe that with enough passion and drive, I can be the change that I wish to see in my community. Inspiration, for me, is the idea of living in a more inclusive world. I am motivated by the idea of what the world could become. For almost a year, I've been dedicating myself to breaking stigmas about teen mental health. It is a passion of mine. Empathy and passion bleed into all the work that I do. In June of 2020, I began a teen mental health blog. On my blog, Blossoming Youth, I write weekly articles about teen mental health issues that deserve more attention. I also interview teens from across the world who want to share their stories about their experience with mental health. My goal is to remind gen-z that they are never alone in the struggles that they face, whether mental or not. I believe that when we give a platform to everyday people who struggle, we break the stigmas surrounding mental health and teach that it is normal (and okay) to struggle. This is extremely important to me because of a lesson that I learned. I lost a friend to suicide in 2020, and it was a turning point for me. Her loss made me realize that empathy, passion, and compassion can save lives if we only dare to be the change that we wish to see in the world. As I continue to grow and develop through adulthood, I don't plan to stop my journey towards change. I believe that we can make our society more inclusive towards those who struggle with mental health. My blog is only the beginning. I want to continue my studies until I can earn my certification in Music Therapy and bring the practice to my community. There is limited access to Music Therapy in urban communities such as mine where the majority of the population are people of color. This is how I want to help my community. I'd like to make Music Therapy affordable and accessible. I am only one person, but I can spark the flame of change within my community and make mental health a bigger priority to others. I believe in being the change that I wish to see in the world, and I do not intend to stop. Empathy and passion allow me to spread compassion in hopes that we can someday see a better world. I want to leave this world knowing that I did something bigger than myself. I created something. That is who I dream to be. We all leave a legacy behind, but what makes the difference is if we challenge ourselves to leave behind a legacy of light. The world can grow to be an even more beautiful place, and that growth starts within us.

I want to change the world. It can sound naive, considering I am just one eighteen-year-old girl, but I believe that with enough passion and drive, I can be the change that I wish to see in my community. Inspiration, for me, is the idea of living in a more inclusive world. I am motivated by the idea of what the world could become. For almost a year, I've been dedicating myself to breaking stigmas about teen mental health. It is a passion of mine. The teen suicide rate is too high. One loss to suicide is too much. This is why I believe in the power of using my voice. My core values consist of two ideas: empathy and passion. Empathy and passion bleed into all the work that I do. In June of 2020, I began a teen mental health blog. On my blog, Blossoming Youth, I write weekly articles about teen mental health issues that deserve more attention. I also interview teens from across the world who want to share their stories about their experience with mental health. My goal is to remind gen-z that they are never alone in the struggles that they face, whether mental or not. I believe that when we give a platform to everyday people who struggle, we break the stigmas surrounding mental health and teach that it is normal (and okay) to struggle. This is extremely important to me because of a lesson that I learned. I lost a friend to suicide in 2020, and it was a turning point for me. Her loss made me realize that empathy, passion, and compassion can save lives if we only dare to be the change that we wish to see in the world. As I continue to grow and develop through adulthood, I don't plan to stop my journey towards change. I believe that we can make our society more inclusive towards those who struggle with mental health. My blog is only the beginning. I want to continue my studies until I can earn my certification in Music Therapy and bring the practice to my community. There is limited access to Music Therapy in urban communities such as mine where the majority of the population are people of color. This is how I want to help my community. I'd like to make Music Therapy affordable and accessible. I am only one person, but I can spark the flame of change within my community and make mental health a bigger priority to others. I believe in being the change that I wish to see in the world, and I do not intend to stop. Empathy and passion allow me to spread compassion in hopes that we can someday see a better world.

Attending college is more than just a personal goal. It is about being the first to finish this milestone for my family. As the oldest child, I have three younger siblings following behind me, and I want to make sure that if they intend to follow me, I intend to head in the right direction. I have the beautiful opportunity to set a good example for my siblings and achieve this dream for my mom, who never got to finish her education due to having me. I feel that I have three sets of eyes on me. My younger siblings motivate me, and I know that pursuing higher education will not only be beneficial to myself but to my family and my community. I am extremely passionate about mental health. While I do have other interests such as writing, acting, and singing, mental health has triumphed it all, and I believe that there are changes to be made in our society when it comes to mental health. I want to change the world. It can sound naive, considering I am just one eighteen-year-old girl, but I believe that with enough passion and drive, I can be the change that I wish to see in my community. Inspiration, for me, is the idea of living in a more inclusive world. I am motivated by the idea of what the world could become. For almost a year, I've been dedicating myself to breaking stigmas about teen mental health. It is a passion of mine. The teen suicide rate is too high. One loss to suicide is too much. This is why I believe in the power of using my voice. In June of 2020, I began a teen mental health blog. I talk about this often, because ultimately, I am really proud of the platform I've created. On my blog, Blossoming Youth, I write weekly articles about teen mental health issues that deserve more attention. I also interview teens from across the world who want to share their stories about their experience with mental health. My goal is to remind gen-z that they are never alone in the struggles that they face, whether mental or not. I believe that when we give a platform to everyday people who struggle, we break the stigmas surrounding mental health and teach that it is normal (and okay) to struggle. I believe that I've been able to serve my peers within the community by making them feel seen. We often only pay attention to the physical aspects of life when it comes to youth. We make sure they are fed, clean, and sheltered, but what about the mental health of the youth? This is where I want to make an impact. I feel that the emotional aspect of a person is just as crucial as the physical aspect. Alongside blogging, I love to perform in musicals and sing in choirs. I've gotten the honor of representing my school in state-wide theatre showcases, and now I am merging my passion for mental health and love for the arts by pursuing Music Therapy in higher education. My ultimate goal is to become a certified music therapist and bring Music Therapy to my community, which does not have access to the practice. The goal is to combine the rush that music brings with the tranquility that therapy brings. I believe that Music Therapy can be life-changing for my community. The arts are a gift and can truly change our treatment of mental health. I intend to share that gift.

My role model is my theatre teacher, Mrs. Caruso. She isn't a family member, but she has become family to me. She isn't a mentor, but she has mentored me through some of the hardest times in my life. She is the perfect role model for me. It is thanks to her encouragement, lessons, and support that I am living life the best I can and pursuing something that I love in higher education. I want to spread her encouragement throughout the world. She is an example of the woman I want to grow to be. From the day I met her, Mrs. Caruso has always been unique. She openly embraces other's differences and teaches me to do the same. She does not just educate me on basic school subjects; She guides me to live my life on the right track and has taught me invaluable lessons on life itself. From her, I have learned the importance of decision-making, how to better manage the stress that life brings, and most importantly, how to believe in myself when no one else does. She has become the most important figure in my life. Because of her, I am where I need to be right now. She is like a mom to me. In fact, I jokingly call her, "mom!" It's thanks to her that I am learning to live my life to its fullest potential. I am going to college in the fall of 2021 to study Music Therapy, which is something that my parents wouldn't dream of me doing! Mrs. Caruso believes in me when no one else does. I plan to pursue Music Therapy because of Mrs. Caruso. She has taught me that the arts can change lives. I want to do the same with my life. I believe that with Music Therapy I can help others in numerous ways and encourage others. Without her, I wouldn't be going to school or pursuing something that I love and know can make a difference. I wouldn't be the person I am today without her. Her lessons in decision-making and making the right choices have led me on a path that I am excited to take. I've become thoughtful and careful with the choices I make and I have learned the importance of researching everything I do. It is because of her that I have now been accepted into a school that I love because of the research she encourages me to do! Being grateful is an understatement. I wish to dedicate my life to not only following her guidance but to be a role model to others and live in her footsteps. In her eyes, the true repayment of all she has done for me is my actions in the future. She has told me, "All you have to do is make me proud." I intend to do exactly that. With Music Therapy, I plan to be a shoulder of support to my community, just as she has been for me. I plan to breathe and live the values she has instilled in me and pass them down to everyone that I meet in this big world. It is thanks to Mrs. Caruso that I am here today, planning for my future and to make her proud, just as she wishes.

My grandparents came to America from Cuba and later had my mom. Despite being in America for so long, their culture never left my family. My grandparents still enjoy "cafe con pan" on their patio every morning just like they did in Cuba. They still only speak Spanish and love tropical fruits. Their culture is a part of who they are, and it is because of that that they have never changed. My mom grew up in Miami, Florida with my grandparents, and she is a lot like me, in a way. She grew up singing in choirs and excelling in English class despite having to learn the language from school. Later in life, my mom couldn't finish school. She had me, and she realized that there was something more important than school: family. She tried to bring me with her to school! I would sit in her classes chugging bottles of formula while she balanced life as a student and supermom. Unfortunately, she couldn't balance it for long. My mom left school in 2003 and hasn't returned since. Now, she still pays back the loans for an education that she never got to finish. For me, attending college is more than just a personal goal. It is about being the first to finish this milestone for my family. As the oldest child, I have three younger siblings following behind me, and I want to make sure that if they intend to follow me, I intend to head in the right direction. I have the beautiful opportunity to set a good example for my siblings and achieve this dream for my mom. I even got accepted into her dream school! While I don’t know which school I will be selecting yet from those that have accepted me, I know that whichever it is, I will earn my degree for both myself and my family through hard work and dedication. We are a family of six, so finances can often be tight. Going to school is a financial risk, but it is one worth taking. My family worries about me going to school because they fear that I will follow in my mom’s footsteps and be stuck in massive debt. And, truth be told, it is scary knowing that if I am financially burdened, my family cannot support me. This is when I remind myself of one thing: While I am just like my mom, her struggles do not define me, and I have the power to break generational cycles. I'd like to grow up to be a music therapist and make the practice more accessible for people of color. I've noticed that the average Music Therapy client is typically white. This is because of the lack of affordability and access to Music Therapy in more urban areas. I would like to begin my own music therapy practice where I can serve and assist my fellow people of color. I firmly believe that now, more than ever, my community needs healthcare services that are accessible and affordable. I can be the change that I wish to see in the world.

My role model is my theatre teacher, Mrs. Caruso. She isn't a family member, but she has become family to me. She isn't a mentor, but she has mentored me through some of the hardest times in my life. She is the perfect role model for me. It is thanks to her encouragement, lessons, and support that I am living life the best I can and pursuing something that I love in higher education. I want to spread her encouragement throughout the world. She is an example of the woman I want to grow to be. From the day I met her, Mrs. Caruso has always been unique. She openly embraces other's differences and teaches me to do the same. She does not just educate me on basic school subjects; She guides me to live my life on the right track and has taught me invaluable lessons on life itself. From her, I have learned the importance of decision-making, how to better manage the stress that life brings, and most importantly, how to believe in myself when no one else does. She has become the most important figure in my life. Because of her, I am where I need to be right now. She is like a mom to me. In fact, I jokingly call her, "mom!" It's thanks to her that I am learning to live my life to its fullest potential. I am going to college in the fall of 2021 to study Music Therapy, which is something that my parents wouldn't dream of me doing! Mrs. Caruso believes in me when no one else does. I plan to pursue Music Therapy because of Mrs. Caruso. She has taught me that the arts can change lives. I want to do the same with my life. I believe that with Music Therapy I can help others in numerous ways and encourage others. Without her, I wouldn't be going to school or pursuing something that I love and know can make a difference. I wouldn't be the person I am today without her. Her lessons in decision-making and making the right choices have led me on a path that I am excited to take. I've become thoughtful and careful with the choices I make and I have learned the importance of researching everything I do. It is because of her that I have now been accepted into a school that I love because of the research she encourages me to do! Being grateful is an understatement. I wish to dedicate my life to not only following her guidance but to be a role model to others and live in her footsteps. In her eyes, the true repayment of all she has done for me is my actions in the future. She has told me, "All you have to do is make me proud." I intend to do exactly that. With Music Therapy, I plan to be a shoulder of support to my community, just as she has been for me. I plan to breathe and live the values she has instilled in me and pass them down to everyone that I meet in this big world. It is thanks to Mrs. Caruso that I am here today, planning for my future and to make her proud, just as she wishes.

I want to change the world. It can sound naive, considering I am just one eighteen-year-old girl, but I believe that with enough passion and drive, I can be the change that I wish to see in my community. Inspiration, for me, is the idea of living in a more inclusive world. I am motivated by the idea of what the world could become. For almost a year, I've been dedicating myself to breaking stigmas about teen mental health. It is a passion of mine. The teen suicide rate is too high. One loss to suicide is too much. This is why I believe in the power of using my voice. In June of 2020, I began a teen mental health blog. I talk about this often, because ultimately, I am really proud of the platform I've created. On my blog, Blossoming Youth, I write weekly articles about teen mental health issues that deserve more attention. I also interview teens from across the world who want to share their stories about their experience with mental health. My goal is to remind gen-z that they are never alone in the struggles that they face, whether mental or not. I believe that when we give a platform to everyday people who struggle, we break the stigmas surrounding mental health and teach that it is normal (and okay) to struggle. I believe that I've been able to serve my peers within the community by making them feel seen. We often only pay attention to the physical aspects of life when it comes to youth. We make sure they are fed, clean, and sheltered, but what about the mental health of the youth? This is where I want to make an impact. I feel that the emotional aspect of a person is just as crucial as the physical aspect. As I continue to grow and develop through adulthood, I don't plan to stop my journey towards change. I believe that we can make our society more inclusive towards those who struggle with mental health. My blog is only the beginning. I want to continue my studies until I can earn my certification in Music Therapy and bring the practice to my community. There is limited access to Music Therapy in urban communities such as mine where the majority of the population are people of color. This is how I want to help my community. I'd like to make Music Therapy affordable and accessible to communities like mine. I am only one person, but I can spark the flame of change within my community and make mental health a bigger priority to others. I believe in being the change that I wish to see in the world, and I do not intend to stop.

The power of self-expression is my everything. Art speaks what words cannot always express. I like to express myself through any art form possible, whether it be dancing, singing, acting, painting, or writing. I believe that we empower ourselves when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable through self-expression. Being an artist motivates me to continuously pursue my passions in life. When I am free to be creative and expressive, I thrive. This is how I connect to the arts. On my seventeenth birthday, I was stressed about the pressures of growing older and facing more responsibility. I needed to relax, so in order to do so, I wrote a song. "Find Yourself" is a laid-back, relaxing tune about taking life at your own pace. I sing it whenever I feel overwhelmed with stress or anxiety. Now, a year later, I still sing this song to myself and to others when I can. It is my self-soothing creation, and it brings me peace. Music has always been a moving force for me. When I battled with depression, music kept me afloat. When I struggled with my own mental expectations of myself, music helped me to express them. It is through the arts that I've been able to thrive. About four or five years ago, I had my first encounter with depression. It was odd, for me. I've always been a very upbeat and positive person, yet for years of my life, I struggled deeply. Music was the only thing that would bring me joy. I would listen to music everywhere I went, I created music, and I talked about music nonstop. It made me feel valuable to the world. I knew that if music makes me feel as enchanted as it does, then I am meant to be alive to listen to it. I struggled with suicidal thoughts and finding the motivation to carry out my goals, but the music was always there for me. I eventually began seeing a therapist, and she helped me to realize that music has saved me. Ever since my junior year, I've wanted to become a Music Therapist. My ultimate goal is to become a certified music therapist in my area. Access to Music Therapy is extremely limited in my community, and I wish to change that. I believe that we can change lives with the practice. I dream to combine the rush that music brings with the tranquility that therapy brings. I plan to go to school to study Music Therapy and eventually become the independent practice owner that I dream to be, and I know that it will make a difference. I believe that Music Therapy can be life-changing for millions of people. Music saved me by giving me something to hold onto. I wish to share the exact same gift with others. Anyone and everyone can hold onto music. It can save lives, and I intend to share it.

My grandparents came to America from Cuba and later had my mom. Despite being in America for so long, their culture never left my family. My grandparents still enjoy "cafe con pan" on their patio every morning just like they did in Cuba. They still only speak Spanish and love tropical fruits. Their culture is a part of who they are, and it is because of that that they have never changed. My mom grew up in Miami, Florida with my grandparents, and she is a lot like me, in a way. She grew up singing in choirs and excelling in English class despite having to learn the language from school. Later in life, my mom couldn't finish school. She had me, and she realized that there was something more important than school: family. She tried to bring me with her to school! I would sit in her classes chugging bottles of formula while she balanced life as a student and supermom. Unfortunately, she couldn't balance it for long. My mom left school in 2003 and hasn't returned since. Growing up, I never got to experience the culture of being a Cuban like I wished. My mom never taught me or my siblings Spanish. My family moved to Georgia when I was around three, so I've always been distanced from my other family members who have experienced the Cuban culture. This changed when I was sixteen. For my 16th birthday, my family went to Cuba. We saved up and planned to go to Cuba to visit family. When I went to Cuba, my world flipped upside down. I fell in love with the Culture that was embedded in my DNA. Ever since then, I've been more observant of what the Latinx community goes through. I've been lucky enough to be granted an average life here in America, but for many Latinx youths, this isn't the case. This is why I want to put an emphasis on Latinx youth mental health in our society. For too long we have pushed aside Latinx youth's wellbeing, assuming that as long as finances are stable or there is food on the table, then they are fine. This is not the case. Latinx youth are more like to struggle with mental health and be silent about it. They are more likely to be ignored when something is wrong. This is something that I'd like to change. I'd like to grow up to be a music therapist and make the practice more accessible for people of color. I've noticed that the average Music Therapy client is typically white. This is because of the lack of affordability and access to Music Therapy in more urban areas. I would like to begin my own music therapy practice where I can serve and assist my fellow Latin Americans. I firmly believe that now, more than ever, Latinx youth need healthcare services that are accessible and affordable. I can be the change that I wish to see in the world.

The biggest struggle I've ever faced is loss, but it has given me a new perspective and it has changed the entire trajectory of my life. I met Kris during my freshman year of high school. She was ambitious and supportive-- everything a friend could be. But, within my four years of knowing her, I watched her life slip away. People tend to think that suicide just happens; you die quickly and it's over. I've learned that this is not the case. Kris took her life on June 13th, 2020, but what many people don't realize, is that she was already dying slowly. When she struggled and needed help, others did not notice. Our society does not check in on our loved ones enough, and maybe if we did more often, more people would still be alive. Suicide does not just happen suddenly. Suicide happens every time we push away loved ones who only wish to feel supported. This is the lesson that I learned. For almost a year, I've been dedicating myself to breaking stigmas about teen mental health. It is a passion of mine. The teen suicide rate is too high. One loss to suicide is too much. This is why I believe in the power of using my voice. About a year before Kris's death, she began to change. She no longer bubbly asked about her friend's days on the bus. She stopped wanting the lead roles in the school plays. Instead, every day she slowly grew more distant from her friends and herself. She started drinking more often than usual and coming to school feeling defeated from her lack of sleep. She was not herself, yet no one checked on her. As her world was falling apart, no one noticed, or dared to ask. No one knew the signs or considered the importance of reaching out. I now think that perhaps if we all checked on her more often, she would still be alive. All it takes is asking someone, "how are you?" to show that you care. I now strive to share this with everyone that I can. I was deeply hurt by the loss of my friend, and I felt that the only way I could overcome it was by preventing more losses just like her's. I want to fight for better treatment of teen mental health in our society. As long as I am alive, I want to change the world's views on teen mental health. On June 16th, I began a blog with the goal of spreading awareness about the importance of paying attention to mental health in gen-z. This is my way of making a change and coping with Kris's death. Since then, I've interviewed friends who struggle with mental health and have wrote weekly blog posts about mental health issues that deserve more attention. I wish to use my blog to remind others that their lives matter and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Alongside running my blog to spread awareness and educate others, I plan to receive my degree in Music Therapy. I now know that I am passionate about mental health and it is where I wish to take my future. Being the "blogging music therapist," I will be able to support others in my community and break the stigma around teen mental health that must be broken. "Always remember that you are never alone." This is what I say at the end of every blog post I write. As I continue to grow and develop through adulthood, I don't plan to stop my journey towards change. I believe that we can make our society more inclusive towards those who struggle with mental health. I can't bring Kris back, but I can use my life to encourage others to keep theirs. It is too often that we ignore mental health out of fear. We fear tough conversations, diagnoses, and the harsh reality that so many people deserve and need support. I refuse to spend my life watching another beautiful soul slip away. It is so important to check in on those that you love. It can decide life or death for so many people. As long as I am alive, I will continue to fight for the better treatment of teen mental health in our society. It is what matters to me and I am passionate about doing so. I believe in being the change that I wish to see in the world, and I do not intend to stop.

The "SpOnGeBoB MeMe" is perhaps the greatest meme of all time, in my eyes. It sounds odd, but I think that this picture is so versatile! It can be used for sarcasm, jokes, etc. That is what makes it truly special. I've seen this image used by gen-z, teachers, grandparents, and essentially everyone! Rather than being a meme that is limited to one group of people, it is associated with millions of different people! This is a meme that brings people together who are different, and that is special. Even when you don't understand the joke, the image makes it funny! After all, memes are supposed to bring people together under the love of humor, and the "sPonGeBoB mEmE" does exactly that!

Kindness moves mountains, in my opinion. I've learned that sometimes even the smallest actions can make a huge impact on someone's day and spark a little joy. We can all use a little joy, sometimes! During my junior year of high school, I was spending a little extra time in physics class to get ahead on work, so I ended up sitting in on another group's class. I was awkwardly sitting in the corner and trying to avoid eye contact with everyone because I felt like the odd one out in front of so many strangers. Then, a kind girl with silver hair breaks the silence and compliments me. "Your outfit is so cute!" she said. I responded with a huge smile and had to compliment her hair, which was always the coolest. After that day it became a ritual to complement each other on random things when we saw each other. "You're gorgeous!" I'd shout. "You're so nice!" She'd shout back. We kept the same routine going up until the pandemic shut down the school! Even after, she has made a lasting impact on me. Without me having to know anything about her, she impacted me as any friend would. All I know is her name, Soule. Even her name is cool! Nonetheless, the routine taught me that even strangers can be a blessing. She boosted my confidence when I was at my lowest, and returning smiles with her always uplifted me. Now, more than a year later of virtual school, I still think of her from time to time. She inspired me to be just like her. There is power in kindness, and I know it firsthand. I don't get to see her anymore, but we like to talk online every so often! It's because of her that I now strive to be an uplifting person. Her kind personality was like a breath of fresh air and I want to be the same! I like to spread kindness by sharing "wholesome memes" with friends now. All at once, I will send a motivating picture of a cat to around 30 people! It's little acts like these that can be the most empowering. It is thanks to Soule that I now know the importance of being a blessing to others. We have the power to make someone smile! Why not use that power for great things? With kindness, we can move mountains.

I want to change the world. It can sound naive, considering I am just one eighteen-year-old girl, but I believe that with enough passion and drive, I can be the change that I wish to see in my community. Inspiration, for me, is the idea of living in a more inclusive world. I am motivated by the idea of what the world could become. For almost a year, I've been dedicating myself to breaking stigmas about teen mental health. It is a passion of mine. The teen suicide rate is too high. One loss to suicide is too much. This is why I believe in the power of using my voice. In June of 2020, I began a teen mental health blog. I talk about this often, because ultimately, I am really proud of the platform I've created. On my blog, Blossoming Youth, I write weekly articles about teen mental health issues that deserve more attention. I also interview teens from across the world who want to share their stories about their experience with mental health. My goal is to remind gen-z that they are never alone in the struggles that they face, whether mental or not. I believe that when we give a platform to everyday people who struggle, we break the stigmas surrounding mental health and teach that it is normal (and okay) to struggle. As I continue to grow and develop through adulthood, I don't plan to stop my journey towards change. I believe that we can make our society more inclusive towards those who struggle with mental health. My blog is only the beginning. I want to continue my studies until I can earn my certification in Music Therapy and bring the practice to my community. I am only one person, but I can spark the flame of change within my community and make mental health a bigger priority to others. I believe in being the change that I wish to see in the world, and I do not intend to stop.

The biggest struggle I've ever faced is loss, but it has given me a new perspective and it has changed the entire trajectory of my life. I met Kris during my freshman year of high school. She was ambitious and supportive-- everything a friend could be. But, within my four years of knowing her, I watched her life slip away. People tend to think that suicide just happens; you die quickly and it's over. I've learned that this is not the case. Kris took her life on June 13th, 2020, but what many people don't realize, is that she was already dying slowly. When she struggled and needed help, others did not notice. Our society does not check in on our loved ones enough, and maybe if we did more often, more people would still be alive. Suicide does not just happen suddenly. Suicide happens every time we push away loved ones who only wish to feel supported. This is the lesson that I learned. About a year before Kris's death, she began to change. She no longer bubbly asked about her friend's days on the bus. She stopped wanting the lead roles in the school plays. Instead, every day she slowly grew more distant from her friends and herself. She started drinking more often than usual and coming to school feeling defeated from her lack of sleep. She was not herself, yet no one checked on her. As her world was falling apart, no one noticed, or dared to ask. No one knew the signs or considered the importance of reaching out. I now think that perhaps if we all checked on her more often, she would still be alive. All it takes is asking someone, "how are you?" to show that you care. I now strive to share this with everyone that I can. I was deeply hurt by the loss of my friend, and I felt that the only way I could overcome it was by preventing more losses just like her's. I want to fight for better treatment of teen mental health in our society. As long as I am alive, I want to change the world's views on teen mental health. On June 16th, I began a blog with the goal of spreading awareness about the importance of paying attention to mental health in gen-z. This is my way of making a change and coping with Kris's death. Since then, I've interviewed friends who struggle with mental health and have wrote weekly blog posts about mental health issues that deserve more attention. I wish to use my blog to remind others that their lives matter and that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Alongside running my blog to spread awareness and educate others, I plan to receive my degree in Music Therapy. I now know that I am passionate about mental health and it is where I wish to take my future. Being the "blogging music therapist," I will be able to support others in my community and break the stigma around teen mental health that must be broken. "Always remember that you are never alone." This is what I say at the end of every blog post I write. I can't bring Kris back, but I can use my life to encourage others to keep theirs. It is too often that we ignore mental health out of fear. We fear tough conversations, diagnoses, and the harsh reality that so many people deserve and need support. I refuse to spend my life watching another beautiful soul slip away. It is so important to check in on those that you love. It can decide life or death for so many people. As long as I am alive, I will continue to fight for the better treatment of teen mental health in our society. It is what matters to me and I am passionate about doing so.

I met Kris during my freshman year of high school. She was ambitious and supportive-- everything a friend could be. But, within my four years of knowing her, I watched her life slip away. People tend to think that suicide just happens; you die quickly and it's over. I've learned that this is not the case. Kris took her life on June 13th, 2020, but what many people don't realize, is that she was already dying slowly. When she struggled and needed help, others did not notice. Our society does not check in on our loved ones enough, and maybe if we did more often, more people would still be alive. Suicide does not just happen suddenly. Suicide happens every time we push away loved ones who only wish to feel supported. About a year before Kris's death, she began to change. She no longer bubbly asked about her friend's days on the bus. She stopped wanting the lead roles in the school plays. Instead, every day she slowly grew more distant from her friends and herself. She started drinking more often than usual and coming to school feeling defeated from her lack of sleep. She was not herself, yet no one checked on her. As her world was falling apart, no one noticed, or dared to ask. No one knew the signs or considered the importance of reaching out. I now think that perhaps if we all checked on her more often, she would still be alive. All it takes is asking someone, "how are you?" to show that you care. Something so simple can be all it takes to make someone feel more important to this world. I now strive to share this with everyone that I can. I want to fight for better treatment of teen mental health in our society. On June 16th, I began a blog with the goal of spreading awareness about the importance of paying attention to mental health. This is my way of making a change and coping with Kris's death. Since then, I've interviewed friends who struggle with mental health and have wrote weekly blog posts about mental health issues that deserve more attention. I wish to use my blog to remind others that their lives matter; I end every blog with the quote, "Always remember that you are never alone." This is my way of supporting others and educating people who wouldn't otherwise pay attention to mental health. I can't bring Kris back, but I can use my life to encourage others to keep theirs. It is too often that we ignore mental health out of fear. We fear tough conversations, diagnoses, and the harsh reality that so many people deserve and need support. I refuse to spend my life watching another beautiful soul slip away. It is so important to check in on those you love. It can decide life or death for so many people. As long as I am alive, I will continue to fight for the better treatment of teen mental health in our society. It is what matters to me and I am passionate about doing so.

My role model is my theatre teacher, Mrs. Caruso. She isn't a family member, but she has become family to me. She isn't a mentor, but she has mentored me through some of the hardest times in my life. She is the perfect role model for me. It is thanks to her encouragement, lessons, and support that I am living life the best I can and pursuing something that I love. I want to spread her encouragement throughout the world. She is an example of the woman I want to grow to be. From the day I met her, Mrs. Caruso has always been unique. She openly embraces other's differences and teaches me to do the same. She does not just educate me on basic school subjects; She guides me to live my life on the right track and has taught me invaluable lessons on life itself. From her, I have learned the importance of decision-making, how to better manage the stress that life brings, and most importantly, how to believe in myself when no one else does. She has become the most important figure in my life. Because of her, I am where I need to be right now. She is like a mom to me. In fact, I jokingly call her, "mom!" It's thanks to her that I am learning to live my life to its fullest potential. I am going to college in the fall of 2021 to study Music Therapy, which is something that my parents wouldn't dream of me doing! Mrs. Caruso believes in me when no one else does. I plan to pursue Music Therapy because of Mrs. Caruso. She has taught me that the arts can change lives. I want to do the same with my life. I believe that with Music Therapy I can help others in numerous ways and encourage others. Without her, I wouldn't be going to school or pursuing something that I love and know can make a difference. I wouldn't be the person I am today without her. Her lessons in decision-making and making the right choices have led me on a path that I am excited to take. I've become thoughtful and careful with the choices I make and I have learned the importance of researching everything I do. It is because of her that I have now been accepted into a school that I love because of the research she encourages me to do! Being grateful is an understatement. I wish to dedicate my life to not only following her guidance but to be a role model to others and live in her footsteps. In her eyes, the true repayment of all she has done for me is my actions in the future. She has told me, "All you have to do is make me proud." I intend to do exactly that. With Music Therapy, I plan to be a shoulder of support to my community, just as she has been for me. I plan to breathe and live the values she has instilled in me and pass them down to everyone that I meet in this big world. It is thanks to Mrs. Caruso that I am here today, planning for my future and to make her proud, just as she wishes

There are two things that I love: musicals and movies. When the two combine, I fall in love! My favorite film is the movie adaptation of "The Phantom of the Opera." I grew up watching the movie over and over with my family and remember all of the memories we made thanks to it. We used to pretend to be opera singers singing Christine's (the lead's) extremely high notes and we would run around the house dancing like ballet dancers. To this day, "The Phantom of the Opera" is still my favorite film. I could watch it over and over again and never feel tired of it. The music is beautiful, the actors are wonderful, and the memories the movie created are special to me. It certainly sits at the top of my list for "favorite film."

The power of self-expression is my everything. Art speaks what words cannot always express. I like to express myself through any art form possible, whether it be dancing, singing, acting, painting, or writing. I believe that we empower ourselves when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable through self-expression. Being an artist motivates me to continuously pursue my passions in life. When I am free to be creative and expressive, I thrive. This is how I connect to the arts. On my seventeenth birthday, I was stressed about the pressures of growing older and facing more responsibility. I needed to relax, so in order to do so, I wrote a song. "Find Yourself" is a laid-back, relaxing tune about taking life at your own pace. I sing it whenever I feel overwhelmed with stress or anxiety. Now, a year later, I still sing this song to myself and to others when I can. It is my self-soothing creation, and it brings me peace. Music has always been a moving force for me. When I battled with depression, music kept me afloat. When I struggled with my own mental expectations of myself, music helped me to express them. It is through the arts that I've been able to thrive. About four or five years ago, I had my first encounter with depression. It was odd, for me. I've always been a very upbeat and positive person, yet for years of my life, I struggled deeply. Music was the only thing that would bring me joy. I would listen to music everywhere I went, I created music, and I talked about music nonstop. It made me feel valuable to the world. I knew that if music makes me feel as enchanted as it does, then I am meant to be alive to listen to it. I struggled with suicidal thoughts and finding the motivation to carry out my goals, but the music was always there for me. I eventually began seeing a therapist, and she helped me to realize that music has saved me. Ever since my junior year, I've wanted to become a Music Therapist. My ultimate goal is to become a certified music therapist in my area. Access to Music Therapy is extremely limited in my community, and I wish to change that. I believe that we can change lives with the practice. I dream to combine the rush that music brings with the tranquility that therapy brings. I plan to go to school to study Music Therapy and eventually become the independent practice owner that I dream to be, and I know that it will make a difference. I believe that Music Therapy can be life-changing for millions of people. Music saved me by giving me something to hold onto. I wish to share the exact same gift with others. Anyone and everyone can hold onto music. It can save lives, and I intend to share it.

The power of self-expression is my everything. I like to express myself through any art form possible, whether it be dancing, singing, acting, painting, or writing. I believe that we empower ourselves when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable through self-expression. I wrote this original song, "Find Yourself," to relax when in overwhelming situations. Whenever I am overwhelmed or stressed, I hum the tune or grab my "guitalele" to play the song. It brings me joy. Music has always been a moving force for me. When I battled with depression, music kept me afloat. When I struggled with my own mental expectations of myself, music helped me to express myself. It is through the arts that I've been able to find motivation. Music is my everything.

On my seventeenth birthday, I was stressed about the pressures of growing older and facing more responsibility. I needed to relax, so in order to do so, I wrote a song. "Find Yourself" is a laid-back, relaxing tune about taking life at your own pace. I sing it whenever I feel overwhelmed with stress or anxiety. Now, a year later, I still sing this song to myself and to others when I can. It is my self-soothing creation, and it brings me peace.

I've been in love with music since the day I was born. My parents met each other while performing in a singing competition, so it is thanks to music that I am even here today. I've grown up singing in choirs, playing guitar, dancing, and falling in love with music. It has been my saving grace. About four or five years ago, I had my first encounter with depression. It was odd, for me. I've always been a very upbeat and positive person, yet for years of my life, I struggled deeply. Music was the only thing that would bring me joy. I would listen to music everywhere I went, I created music, and I talked about music nonstop. It made me feel valuable to the world. I knew that if music makes me feel as enchanted as it does, then I am meant to be alive to listen to it. My depression grew worse during my freshman year of high school. Even though I excelled in the classroom, when I was alone, I was never myself. I struggled with suicidal thoughts and finding the motivation to carry out my goals, but the music was always there for me. I eventually began seeing a therapist, and she helped me to realize that music has saved me. Ever since my junior year, I've wanted to become a Music Therapist. It is now my ultimate goal. I dream to combine the rush that music brings with the tranquility that therapy brings. I plan to go to school to study Music Therapy and eventually become the independent practice owner that I dream to be. I believe that Music Therapy can be life-changing for millions of people. Music saved me by giving me something to hold onto. I wish to share the exact same gift with others. Anyone and everyone can hold onto music. It can save lives, and I intend to share it.

I've been in love with music since the day I was born. My parents met each other while performing in a singing competition, so it is thanks to music that I am even here today. I've grown up singing in choirs, playing guitar, dancing, and falling in love with music. It has been my saving grace. About four or five years ago, I had my first encounter with depression. It was odd, for me. I've always been a very upbeat and positive person, yet for years of my life, I struggled deeply. Music was the only thing that would bring me joy. I would listen to music everywhere I went, I created music, and I talked about music nonstop. It made me feel valuable to the world. I knew that if music makes me feel as enchanted as it does, then I am meant to be alive to listen to it. My depression grew worse during my freshman year of high school. Even though I excelled in the classroom, when I was alone, I was never myself. I struggled with suicidal thoughts and finding the motivation to carry out my goals, but the music was always there for me. I eventually began seeing a therapist, and she helped me to realize that music has saved me. Ever since my junior year, I've wanted to become a Music Therapist. It is now my ultimate goal. I dream to combine the rush that music brings with the tranquility that therapy brings. I believe that it can be life-changing for millions of people. Music saved me by giving me something to hold onto. I wish to share the exact same gift with others. Anyone and everyone can hold onto music. It can save lives, and I intend to share it.

The dreamers of the world deserve to be represented. I have always loved music and believe that with a good song, one can bring together groups and create new emotions in others. This is why I wish to create a musical known as "Mama Made it to Broadway!" I have had the idea for almost a year since being inspired by my mom. Her life is ironic enough to be made into a musical, in my opinion! The show is about a mom who dreams of being on Broadway but could never follow her dreams because of getting married and having children. She winds up battling both her postpartum depression and the expectations others have of her before eventually making it onto Broadway with the help of a supposed enemy. It's dramatic yet humorous and inspiring. The point of making this musical is to give representation to women who live with postpartum depression and struggle with the changes that come with having children. There are so many TV shows, musicals, and books that represent youth, but there is nothing to represent mothers that tend to feel exhausted and hopeless after dealing with the uncertainty of motherhood. Moms are the reason the world goes round. I wish to create this musical for both those mothers and the dreamers who feel that they can't follow their dreams because of who they are. "Mama Made it to Broadway," is a story that is made to remind dreamers all around the world that their dreams are obtainable if they work for them and believe in them. The best creations are ones that are made to inspire. I wish for the world to someday see (and hear) this creation because of its meaning. This musical is not just to be entertainment for others. Just like any book or artistic creation, it has a purpose beyond entertainment. "Mama Made it to Broadway" is made to give others a sense of hope. I wish for the world to someday see my creation and feel that they too can obtain any dreams they have. After all, anything is possible when you work for it and believe in your ability to achieve it. Mama made it to Broadway! Anyone can follow their dreams too.

2020 has impacted everyone in some sort of way, and in my life, 2020 has impacted me in both positive and negative ways. I am grateful for both the good and the bad that has come with this past year because it has taught me brilliant lessons about life and who I am as a person. We must be welcome to all circumstances, both good and bad, because of the growth that comes with experiencing life. Thanks to 2020, the person I was a year ago and who I am today are very different people Now, I am more self-motivated and have learned to resiliently take life one day at a time. My outlook on the world is different; this is a good thing. I now know that life in itself is a gift, and I intend to use my gift to be a gift to others. Before last year began, I was extremely distant from both myself and the world; I was too focused on having the "perfect" grades and getting work done. I never allowed myself the time to get to know myself or find my place in this world. Once school was shut down in March, I had nothing but opportunities to get to know myself! I grew depressed feeling trapped at home and being away from all the things I loved about life outside of the house, but it still taught me more about myself, nonetheless. I began to find my place in the world and truly understand what matters to me. With the stress COVID-19 caused me, I grew to become one with myself by giving myself the reflection time that I needed. Meditation and self-expression became my saving grace, and now I feel stronger. Once finding myself, I decided it was time to dedicate my time to helping others find themselves. I now use both social media and a blog I own to encourage others to reflect within themselves and find who they are. I began my blog, Blossoming Youth, in June of 2020 after I lost a friend to suicide. This was the hardest part of my year. Rather than spending my summer at the beach and with family, I spent the majority of my time wondering what I could do with my life to make my late friend proud of me. This was when I began my blog. Since June of 2020, mental health has been my priority. From blogging to speaking in mental health workshops in my community, I want to be sure that one day, no other soul should ever have to feel the need to commit suicide. 2020 reinvented me. My entire trajectory of life has been changed. I wish to own my own Music Therapy practice and help every soul that I possibly can feel empowered. The lessons I've learned are invaluable. I now know the importance of caring for myself and the ones around me. I've become more observant to see that the world is full of good and bad; this is a delicate balance. I now live my life to encourage the good in this world to keep being good and to help everyone I meet to find their place in this world as well. If it were not for 2020, I would not be myself right now. Reflecting on last year only shows me that both the positive and negative experiences I've undergone are blessings that are here to help me grow. Life is full of balance and I have learned that sometimes the best gifts come from both the good and bad days.

I met Kris during my freshman year of high school. She was ambitious and supportive-- everything a friend could be. But, within my four years of knowing her, I watched her life slip away. People tend to think that suicide just happens; you die quickly and it's over. I've learned that this is not the case. Kris took her life on June 13th, 2020, but what many people don't realize, is that she was already dying slowly. When she struggled and needed help, others did not notice. Our society does not check in on our loved ones enough, and maybe if we did more often, more people would still be alive. Suicide does not just happen suddenly. Suicide happens every time we push away loved ones who only wish to feel supported. About a year before Kris's death, she began to change. She no longer bubbly asked about her friend's days on the bus. She stopped wanting the lead roles in the school plays. Instead, every day she slowly grew more distant from her friends and herself. She started drinking more often than usual and coming to school feeling defeated from her lack of sleep. She was not herself, yet no one checked on her. As her world was falling apart, no one noticed, or dared to ask. No one knew the signs or considered the importance of reaching out. I now think that perhaps if we all checked on her more often, she would still be alive. All it takes is asking someone, "how are you?" to show that you care. Something so simple can be all it takes to make someone feel more important to this world. I now strive to share this with everyone that I can. On June 16th, I began a blog with the goal of spreading awareness about the importance of paying attention to mental health. This is my way of making a change and coping with Kris's death. Since then, I've interviewed friends who struggle with mental health and have wrote weekly blog posts about mental health issues that deserve more attention. I wish to use my blog to remind others that their lives matter; I end every blog with the quote, "Always remember that you are never alone." This is my way of supporting others and educating people who wouldn't otherwise pay attention to mental health. I can't bring Kris back, but I can use my life to encourage others to keep theirs. It is too often that we ignore mental health out of fear. We fear tough conversations, diagnoses, and the harsh reality that so many people deserve and need support. I refuse to spend my life watching another beautiful soul slip away. It is so important to check in on those you love. It can decide life or death for so many people.

A legacy is what you leave behind. Each and every person leaves behind some sort of legacy when they pass. It does not matter whether you are 18 or 80; we all make some sort of impact on the world around us. What matters to me is that I leave a legacy of light. While it sounds odd to be thinking of legacy and my passing at the age of 18, it is so important that I do. I learned that the hard way. I lost my best friend to suicide on June 13th, 2020. When she passed, I realized the importance of leaving behind a good legacy. I decided then that I would spend every passing day of my life making sure that I do something that matters because tomorrow is not promised. All I have is today. Each and every day we all have a chance to create a good legacy. To leave a legacy is to leave a parting gift with the world. When someone passes, all you have are memories-- the legacy of that person. You remember the laughs, the good memories, the good, the bad, and everything in between. That is the legacy. Every legacy is valuable. We touch lives and change lives with every day that we live, so, our legacies will always stay valuable whether someone remembers us or not. This is what I remind myself. I want to spend my life creating a legacy that lasts. I want to impact people, change the world (even if it is just a small change), and create something bigger than myself. This is when my blog began. I created Blossoming Youth, a teen mental health blog, in June of 2020. It is my way of creating something that will outlive me and be my legacy. With each day, I am writing about mental health, spreading awareness, and working towards empowering others. That is the legacy that I want to leave behind. I don't care for the recognition of my blog or a huge following. I care about the legacy that I leave. I want to leave this world knowing that I did something bigger than myself. I created something. That is who I dream to be. We all leave a legacy behind, but what makes the difference is if we challenge ourselves to leave behind a legacy of light.

During my sophomore year of high school, I found a card in my bookbag. The card stated John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." I treasured the verse I found and kept it in my bookbag, but then, I somehow lost it! I carried on with my life, barely thinking of God and being a "lukewarm" Christian, but this all changed during 2020. The pandemic was particularly difficult, but that wasn't what brought me close to God. Instead, it was a harsh reality that brought me closer to God. Within a span of three months, I lost my best friend to suicide and my grandma to Covid-19. The summer of 2020 was the hardest part of my life, not because school was canceled, but because the people I love were slipping away from me. I never got to say goodbye to my friend, Kris. I watched my grandma take her final breaths over a video call with my family in Miami. I grew insanely depressed and couldn't bear waking up every morning knowing that at any moment, someone else I love could die. Then, the same card I found during my sophomore year was in my bookbag once again. I cleaned out my bookbag multiple times before that day, yet for some reason, there the bible verse card was as if I never lost it. God was there. I clung to John 14:27 and memorized it so it would never leave me again. Then, I put the card on my desk right next to my cactus, named after Kris. I decided on that day that if I wanted to change my life, I needed to first change my relationship with God. I've been to church. I've prayed. But, I've never truly allowed myself to put my full trust in God and build a relationship. Since that day, I have prayed every night. I haven't missed a day. I read my bible and I do everything that I can to try to live my life for God, and now, my perception of the world is different. I feel empowered by Jesus Christ. Though I may miss Kris and my grandma every day, I know that they are with God and watching over me. I want to spend the rest of my life making God proud of my life because I now know that tomorrow is not promised.

In June of 2020, I lost my best friend to suicide. Her loss was devastating, and it made me realize something extremely important about the internet: It, shockingly enough, does not have enough practical resources for teenagers. Often, when generation-z seeks advice and support, they search the internet, only to find the multitude of resources provided from the eyes of an older adult. There are little to no resources for teens that are created by teens. The suicide of my friend, Kris, inspired me to be the change that I wish to see in the world. On June 16th of 2020, I created Blossoming Youth, which is a teen mental health blog that educates, supports, and provides a safe space for generation-z. My goal is to write weekly blog posts about topics that impact my generation and bring awareness to the numerous topics that we can be otherwise afraid to talk about. I've written about managing stress in school, porn addiction, body-image, and so much more. I also try to interview other gen-z teenagers every month to provide them the ability to share their stories on a larger platform. I firmly believe that Blossoming Youth is only the beginning of what the internet can become for generation-z. As teenagers, it is empowering to find resources on the internet that truly understand our perspectives and ideas. Blossoming youth is not like the thousands of mental health resources that are written by adults for teens. Rather, I am providing our own lens online that reminds my generation that they are never alone in what they face. No one should feel the need to take their life, and so often for generation-z, we grow depressed because we feel misunderstood. Older generations find it hard to understand our opinions and ideas, and the systems that are created to support us tend to only care about our academics and behavior. It is devastating. I created Blossoming Youth with Kris in mind. I asked myself, "would she want to read this?" I decided that with this blog, I want to provide a space that is pure and loving towards my generation. I want to remind teenagers that I see their struggles and that they are not alone in this world. Blossoming Youth is special. It is the blend of compassion for writing, mental health, and the growing need for a better resource on the internet. With my blog, I am touching the lives of my generation- one reader, and interview at a time.

STEM occupations have been needed long before the pandemic. In fact, these occupations have been the backbone of our society for years. Those in the STEM field have been hidden-heroes up until recently. Due to the pandemic, STEM careers are finally getting the recognition that they deserve! The pandemic brought a lot of stress, hurt, and grief to the world. There is only one thing that can stop it: STEM! The scientists, engineers, and all holders of STEM careers are modern-day heroes that will save the world. STEM occupations are important to our society and will allow the world to finally thrive and evolve to it's fullest potential. When our society is in need of vaccines, STEM provides. When children in schools need the technology to thrive in the learning environment, STEM provides. When mothers bring their children into this world, STEM is there. STEM does so much for society, from treating mental illness to creating rockets that take us out of this world. As our society grows and blossoms into the world it is meant to be, STEM will be the backbone of everything. Just like it always has, STEM will allow us to adapt and thrive. In the post-pandemic world that is in our future, we will only be stronger because of the scientific discoveries that will have been made. The brilliant minds and souls in the STEM field will bring our world back to life and its original luster, one discovery at a time. STEM occupations are important and our world rests in the field's hands.

"Question everything." This is what I was told during my junior year of high school. At first glance, I did not understand the power behind those two words, but now, I've grown to recognize this quote as my own personal narrative for life. Where would we be today if it weren't for the brave souls throughout history who chose to question everything? Having the ability to question and rethink the world around us is a tool that can be used for the best! When one questions things, innovation occurs. This quote has taught me to not just accept the status quo, but rather, I should re-define the status quo with my own unique perspective of the world. When my public speaking professor spoke those words to me on the first day of class, I was swept into a completely new perspective of living. Why hadn't I realized before that there are so much beauty and power within the ability to question the things around you? I decided from that day forward that I would not just achieve my goals through hard work, but also through questioning everything around me and being brave enough to make change where change is needed. I wish to follow my passions and become a music therapist. With the motivation that my public speaking professor instilled in me, I now plan to be a change-maker in the field by spreading the practice to areas that do not have access. I will continue to question everything throughout my life. I am motivated by the idea that I shouldn't be afraid of evolving or reforming things that must be changed. After all, it is through change and evolution that the world grows more compassionate and stronger. There are beauty and power within the ability to question everything and be the change that you wish to see in the world. I wish to be the change and better yet, create change through questioning everything.

My experience with community service has been life-changing. My own passion for service began a year ago when I learned an important lesson. There are many people who participate in community service solely for the sake of receiving service hours or bragging rights. Service has taught me that the most important aspect of community service is the impacts of those works. It should not be about what the volunteer is receiving. What truly matters when participating in community service is the impact that is made on those around you. There is no greater gift than watching others blossom through the work that you do. This is the lesson that I came across in April of 2020. While my time being passionate about community service has not been extremely long, it does not take away from the enchanting feeling that fills my soul when I get to help others. I am a founding member of the Theatre Salem outreach program, which travels to local middle schools to work with students from beginning theatre programs that have little-to-no funding. Our goal is to share our love for the performing arts with younger students so that they too can have an outlet to express themselves and stay out of harm’s way. Upon beginning this outreach program, I did not expect the impacts that it would make on my understanding of the world and the young spirits around me. Community service single-handedly changed my life in ways that I would have never foreseen. Upon visiting my program's first middle school in April of 2020, I got to work with students on their starting program. In this class specifically, we were talking about how one can use their own experiences in life to express themselves through a completely new character. From the lesson, we got to watch students confidently develop into characters that expressed awkwardness, anger, sadness, bliss, and so many other ranges of emotion. It was breathtaking to watch, but I truly did not understand the impact that was being made in those student’s lives until later on. At the end of our visit, a sixth-grader asked me, "Could you please come again?" This comment made me realize that the work that I do is making an impact in children's lives and it changed my perspective of what life should be about. Rather than living my life simply to live, I wish to change lives. Service impacted my character by teaching me that the greatest gift of all is being a gift to others. By introducing these children and pre-teens to the theatre arts, we are giving them an outlet that will keep them involved in their schools and in communities as they grow older. I now wish to share my passion with all whom I can meet.

Science is the backbone of everything and can make anything possible. I plan to major in Music Therapy in the fall of 2021. While that might not sound like a STEM career at first glance, the practice actually combines science (biology and chemistry), psychology, and music to create a uniquely beautiful field that has the potential to save billions of lives. I am passionate about Music Therapy and wish to use it to change lives. Music Therapy is a powerful study that can help others who struggle with emotional, physical, and social impairments. In my eyes, the best part of the practice is the lives that I will be able to change. With the study, I can work at hospitals, schools, and at my end goal: my own private practice. A degree in Music Therapy means more to me than just a decent salary; I am passionate about all that Music Therapy can do. Studying STEM is something that will benefit me for life because I will be able to do something incredible: Saving lives. My ultimate goal is to become a certified music therapist and to bring Music Therapy to my community. The practice has been proven to be beneficial in multiple ways, but Music Therapy has yet to be given the recognition that it deserves. In my eyes, it is heartbreaking to know that my community does not have access to the practice because of how new it is. I strive to change this. With Music Therapy, I want to be a blessing to others. I wish to help children express themselves and the elderly regain their sense of strength. The practice is powerful and I wish to share it with all. So, I plan to go to college to major in Music Therapy and within four years, intern alongside other music therapists and take the certification exam to become the certified music therapist I dream to be! By studying Music Therapy, I get to learn the incredible studies behind how music can impact others. Through that time period, I plan to prepare myself to open my own practice in my hometown of Conyers, Georgia. I will not rest until I have brought the gift of Music Therapy to the community that I love. Music Therapy deserves to be shared with the world and I intend to share it with all. This is my ultimate goal, which I know I will achieve if I continue to work for it. A degree in Music Therapy means a lot to me. With the degree, I will forge my career of owning my own private practice and saving lives one session at a time. I am in love with all that Music Therapy can do and I plan to build a future with the practice to help others.

The sky would be the limit if money weren't an issue. I wish to dedicate my time to supporting other's mental health and encouraging others to pursue what they love. For me, music is my way of supporting others. I believe that music is extremely powerful and I want to use it to uplift others. I don't want to be a world-famous singer or songwriter; rather, I wish to use music to help others uniquely. It isn't the fame or fortune that matters to me. What matters to me is the impact that I make on others. If money weren't an issue, I'd buy multiple instruments to lend out to others who need a little encouragement. I've found that playing an instrument is magically stress-relieving. This is why I wish to share the power of music with others. I've already begun this project, but don't have the funds to expand. I have one guitar and two ukuleles. I lend out the ukuleles to my friends who wish to dive into music. It's incredible to watch music's benefit on others! My only wish is that I had the money to continue. Despite the funds, I don't allow them to knock me down. I have a passion for helping others with music and I plan to continue. In the future, I will be receiving my certification to become a Music Therapist. This is my way of helping others. Music is powerful, and I intend to use it.

Everyone has a role model, even when they don't realize it. We develop as people based on the influence of others. Good influences are role models. My role model is not the typical, cookie-cutter image of what a role model should be, but they have become the greatest force in my life. My role model is my theatre teacher, Mrs. Caruso. She isn't a family member, but she has become family to me. She isn't a mentor, but she has mentored me through some of the hardest times in my life. She is the perfect role model for me. From the day I met her, she has always been unique. She openly embraces other's differences and teaches me to do the same. She does not just educate me on basic subjects like school or finances. She guides me to live my life on the right track and has taught me invaluable lessons on life itself. From her, I have learned the importance of decision-making, how to better manage the stress life brings, and most importantly, how to believe in myself when no one else does. She has become the most important figure in my life. Because of her, I am where I need to be in my life. I don't have a loving family who can guide me towards my goals, but I have Mrs. Caruso. She is like a mom to me. In fact, I jokingly call her, "mom!" It's thanks to her that I am learning to live my life to its fullest potential. I am going to college in the fall of 2021 to study Music Therapy, which is something that my parents wouldn't dream of me doing! Mrs. Caruso believes in me when no one else does. Without her, I wouldn't be going to school or pursuing something that I love and know can make a difference. I wouldn't be the person I am today without her. Her lessons in decision-making and making the right choices have led me on a path that I am excited to take. I've become thoughtful and careful with the choices I make and I have learned the importance of researching everything I do. It is because of her that I have now been accepted into a school that I love because of the research she encourages me to do! Being grateful is an understatement. I wish to dedicate my life to not only following her guidance but to be a role model to others as well. In her eyes, the true repayment of all she has done for me is my actions in the future. She has told me, "All you have to do is make me proud." I intend to do exactly that. With Music Therapy, I plan to be a shoulder of support to my community, just as she has been for me. I plan to breathe and live the values she has instilled in me and pass them down to everyone that I meet in this big world. It is thanks to Mrs. Caruso that I am here today, planning for my future and to make her proud, just as she wishes.

Music is powerful. I'm inspired by, "Only You, Lonely You" from Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Cinderella." It's blissful. It is about selfless love and finding peace within a situation. This is why I selected the remaining songs that are in my playlist. Each song might have a different style (who would have guessed R&B and classical within the same playlist?), but the meanings are all the same. These songs represent undying love peace for a situation. This is the playlist of my life. These songs inspire me to find peace within every circumstance and love the world around me.

One of the most wonderful journeys one can go through is the journey of self-love. There is an overwhelming sensation of peace and bliss when you learn to accept yourself as already good enough. This is a liberating feeling that I've gotten to experience as I've learned that I am not defined by other's opinions of me. My journey with self-love has changed my perception of the world, my relationships, and what I would like to accomplish in life. I am grateful for all the tears I've shed and struggles that I've had with myself because of how they have impacted me today. I was at my weakest point when I was around the middle-school age-- 13 or 14. In middle school, I moved to a new school and was too socially awkward to form friendships, leading to me being a fun bullying target to others. My looks were typically picked on. I suffered from cystic acne, which caused many kids to bully me because I was "dirty" and "ugly". From there, the kids used to tease me for traits that I still have to this day, which still bothers me a bit. I used to be referred to as "wolverine" because of my hairy arms and bushy eyebrows. As I've grown older, I've brushed off the comments, but throughout high school, I dealt with extreme insecurity over those things that I can't control. There was a time where I was suicidal and found myself to be not good enough for life itself. I pulled through those years of insecurity and began my journey with self-love. My journey began my sophomore year of high school after experiencing sexual harassment from a senior when I was a freshman. I realized that my self-image should be based on how I feel about myself rather than other's opinions of me. Ever since then, I've grown immensely. I now understand that I am worth much more than what others may think of me. There is power in feeling empowered, and it is because of this that I now want to share this with everyone I can. In June of 2020, I began a mental health blog in memory of a friend I lost to suicide, and one of my main discussion topics on the blog is in regards to self-image and self-love. I began my blog, Blossoming Youth, with the goal of spreading awareness of mental health and encouraging others. My journey with self-love has led me to be passionate about encouraging others to also begin their journey. I now believe that everyone's self-worth is defined by how they define themselves, not others. I believe in my own self-image and it reflects in how I treat my relationships with others. Finally, because of my journey, I wish to dedicate my life to mental health and helping others love themselves as they are.

Science is the backbone of everything and can make anything possible. This is why I'm passionate about STEM. In particular, I wish to use STEM to help others in a multitude of ways. I plan to major in Music Therapy in the fall of 2021. While that might not sound like a STEM career at first glance, the practice actually combines science (biology and chemistry), psychology, and music to create a unique field that has the potential to save billions of lives. I am just as passionate about Music Therapy as I am about STEM, and I wish to use the field to benefit individuals all over my community. Studying in a STEM field, Music Therapy, will be incredible. The study of Music Therapy will benefit me for the rest of my life. With the study, I can work at hospitals, schools, and at my end goal: my own private practice. In my eyes, the best part of the practice is the lives that I will be able to change. The goal of Music Therapy is to use the combination of science, psychology, and music to help clients accomplish social, emotional, and physical goals. It's wonderful to know that with STEM, I can change lives. Studying STEM is something that will benefit me for life because of the wonders it can achieve and I will be able to do something incredible: Saving lives.

(I'm in the bottom-right corner). My theatre teacher, Mrs. Caruso is an incredible woman who would do anything for us. Since school went virtual in March, it has been challenging for teachers to balance the new normal from home. Because of this, I called others from class and asked for their help with a gift for Mrs. Caruso. We made encouraging signs and turned on our cameras to show them all together on the last day of school! It made her cry, which she does when she's happy! We love her and we're always happy to remind her of it!

My passions lie in mental health. I believe that our society does not take mental health as seriously as it should. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the USA. How is this not being given more attention? This is what I wish to change. I am no lawmaker or government official, but I have a voice. With that voice, I can do anything I put my mind to. This is why I plan to use my voice to spread awareness of the crucial reality of mental health and suicide in our society. The average person does not think of mental health much, but I strive to change that. I first plan to spread awareness around my community and generation, and then I plan to take this awareness to our elected officials that should care more about this crisis. Being seventeen, there is only so much I can do, legally. Because of this, my first step is to bring awareness of mental health to my generation. I began a blog to do just this in June of 2020. My blog, Blossoming Youth, was created to encourage individuals to speak up about mental health more often. I post weekly blog posts about spreading suicide awareness, how to get involved, how to check in on loved ones, and so much more. With how influential technology is on my generation, it is the backbone of my plans to spread awareness and encourage others to take action. In the future, I do not just want to be a blog owner, though. I wish to make real change happen by organizing meetings with elected officials and bringing up cases that can make a change in our society. There must come a day where no soul has to feel distraught enough to consider suicide, and I will continue to fight for what's right until that day comes.

I've always struggled with anxiety but never thought past my own struggles. That was one of my biggest mistakes. We all should pay more attention to other's struggles. My outlook on mental health completely changed when it was already far too late. This is not about my struggle. This story is about someone who meant the world to me. I met Kris during my freshman year of high school. She was ambitious and supportive-- basically everything a friend could be. But, within my four years of knowing her, I watched her life slip away. People tend to think that suicide just happens; you die quickly and it's over. I've learned that this is not the case. Kris took her life on June 13th, 2020, but what many people don't realize, is that she was already dying slowly. No one noticed. Our society does not check in on our loved ones enough, and maybe if we did more often, more people would still be alive. This is the biggest realization I've ever had. Ever since I lost Kris, my entire world changed. Now, I only want to dedicate my life to bringing awareness to mental health in my generation. About a year before Kris's death, she began to change. She no longer bubbly asked about her friend's days on the bus. She stopped wanting the lead roles in the school plays. Instead, every day she slowly grew more distant from her friends and herself. Kris was always someone who was energetic and bright. She started drinking more often than usual and coming to school feeling defeated from her lack of sleep. She was not herself, yet no one checked on her. No one dared to ask why she was drinking or why she started sleeping during class. Maybe people were afraid to talk about the hard subjects of depression and suicide, or maybe people just didn't notice. Whatever the reason was, it must be changed now. I now think that perhaps if we all had checked on her more often, she would still be alive. All it takes is asking someone, "how are you?" to show that you care. Something so simple can be all it takes to make someone feel more important to this world. I now strive to share this with everyone. On June 16th, two days after Kris's death, I began a blog with the goal of spreading awareness about the importance of paying attention to mental health. This is my way of making a change and coping with the loss. Since then, I've interviewed friends who struggle with mental health and have wrote weekly blog posts about mental health issues that deserve more attention. I wish to use my blog to remind others that their lives matter; I end every blog with the quote, "Always remember that you are never alone." This is my way of supporting others and educating people who wouldn't otherwise pay attention to mental health. I can't bring Kris back, but I can use my life to encourage others to keep theirs. My blog, Blossoming Youth, is just the beginning. I want to dedicate my life to spreading awareness about mental health and encouraging others in any way possible. This is why past high school, I wish to go to school to major in Music Therapy. Knowing how music has helped me with my struggle with anxiety in the past, I believe that Music Therapy is a practice that can benefit so many individuals and save lives. Using both music and blogging, I want to remind others that their lives matter and give others the support that they need. Losing Kris was devastating, but it has caused my entire perception of the world to change for good. My main priority is now making sure that no other lives have to be lost because of the lack of support from others. I wish to bring support to the souls that need it and provide education to those who do not think much of mental health. It could change our world and how many lives we lose to suicide per year. I can't turn back time to bring Kris back, but if I could, I would ask her about what is going on. I would ask our friends to visit her house more and I would visit her job more often. I would give her the support that any friend deserves. Too many people spend their lives afraid to talk about the crucial mental health subjects that matter, and I am guilty of once-living like that. I vow to myself and to Kris in heaven that I will never avoid talking about mental health in the way that I did before. For the rest of my life, my biggest priority will always be bringing awareness to the mental health issues that impact my generation. No other life should be lost because of the negligence of avoiding the topic of mental health. I plan to be the change I wish to see in the world, in honor of Kris, who deserved better.

I believe that if you want to see the world change, you must be the change that you wish to see in the world. I have a tremendous passion for providing children and pre-teens with support and encouragement that can stick with them for life. Community service is about far more than what others may think. There are many people who participate in community service solely for the sake of receiving service hours or bragging rights. What truly matters when participating in community service is the impact that is made on those around you. There is no greater gift than watching others blossom through the work that you do. This is the joyous gift that I receive every time I help a child. There are millions of children and pre-teens that come from unstable or unloving homes. It should be a bigger priority to provide these children with support while they are still young. This helps them to grow up healthier and with better decision-making skills. Our hands are in the sake of this younger generation, and it is up to us to encourage them and help them to develop. I believe that far too many children live their lives without an outlet. Children, just like any adult, require a safe haven and outlet that allows them to remain motivated. This is where the Theatre Salem Outreach program comes from. I am a founding member of the Theatre Salem outreach program, which travels to local middle schools and works with students to begin theatre programs that have little-to-no funding. This is my way of providing hope and service to my community. While it may not seem like the most crucial work, I know that it is important because of the impacts that I have witnessed on students. For example, upon visiting my program's first middle school in April, I got to work with students on their upstarting theatre program. In this class specifically, we were talking about how one can use their own experiences in life to express themselves through a completely new character. We got to watch students confidently develop into characters that expressed awkwardness, anger, sadness, and bliss. At the end of our visit, a sixth-grader asked me, "Could you please come again?". This comment made me realize that the work that I do is making a deep impact on these children's lives, even if they aren't realizing it. By introducing these children and pre-teens to the theatre arts, we are giving them an outlet that will keep them involved with their schools and communities as they grow older. Many of these children come from unstable and unsafe homes. This is why I do what I do. I believe in giving the children of our future an outlet that they can run to so that they avoid the bad decisions that many teenagers turn to out of stress and neglect. I can attest to the fact that I have seen far too many teenagers turn to drugs, crime, or even suicide because of an unhealthy home situation. I refuse to allow these children to follow this path. After all, our future lies within the hands of children. It is extremely crucial to provide children with a supportive and educational environment from early on. By bringing theatre to students, I know that I am making a positive impact on not only the children but our future. Some individuals provide food for the community. Others provide clothing. My way of helping my community is by providing children an outlet that will keep them motivated and safe for the rest of their lives.

I've always struggled with anxiety but never thought past my own struggles. That was one of my biggest mistakes. We all should pay more attention to other's struggles. My outlook on mental health completely changed when it was already far too late. This is not about my struggle. This story is about someone who meant the world to me. I met Kris during my freshman year of high school. She was ambitious and supportive-- basically everything a friend could be. But, within my four years of knowing her, I watched her life slip away. People tend to think that suicide just happens; you die quickly and it's over. I've learned that this is not the case. Kris took her life on June 13th, 2020, but what many people don't realize, is that she was already dying slowly. No one noticed. Our society does not check in on our loved ones enough, and maybe if we did more often, more people would still be alive. This is the biggest realization I've ever had. Ever since I lost Kris, my entire world changed. Now, I only want to dedicate my life to bringing awareness to mental health in my generation. About a year before Kris's death, she began to change. She no longer bubbly asked about her friend's days on the bus. She stopped wanting the lead roles in the school plays. Instead, every day she slowly grew more distant from her friends and herself. Kris was always someone who was energetic and bright. She started drinking more often than usual and coming to school feeling defeated from her lack of sleep. She was not herself, yet no one checked on her. No one dared to ask why she was drinking or why she started sleeping during class. Maybe people were afraid to talk about the hard subjects of depression and suicide, or maybe people just didn't notice. Whatever the reason was, it must be changed now. I now think that perhaps if we all had checked on her more often, she would still be alive. All it takes is asking someone, "how are you?" to show that you care. Something so simple can be all it takes to make someone feel more important to this world. I now strive to share this with everyone. On June 16th, two days after Kris's death, I began a blog with the goal of spreading awareness about the importance of paying attention to mental health. This is my way of making a change and coping with the loss. Since then, I've interviewed friends who struggle with mental health and have wrote weekly blog posts about mental health issues that deserve more attention. I wish to use my blog to remind others that their lives matter; I end every blog with the quote, "Always remember that you are never alone." This is my way of supporting others and educating people who wouldn't otherwise pay attention to mental health. I can't bring Kris back, but I can use my life to encourage others to keep theirs. My blog, Blossoming Youth, is just the beginning. I want to dedicate my life to spreading awareness about mental health and encouraging others in any way possible. This is why past high school, I wish to go to school to major in Music Therapy. Knowing how music has helped me with my struggle with anxiety in the past, I believe that Music Therapy is a practice that can benefit so many individuals and save lives. Using both music and blogging, I want to remind others that their lives matter and give others the support that they need. Losing Kris was devastating, but it has caused my entire perception of the world to change for good. My main priority is now making sure that no other lives have to be lost because of the lack of support from others. I wish to bring support to the souls that need it and provide education to those who do not think much of mental health. It could change our world and how many lives we lose to suicide per year. I can't turn back time to bring Kris back, but if I could, I would ask her about what is going on. I would ask our friends to visit her house more and I would visit her job more often. I would give her the support that any friend deserves. Too many people spend their lives afraid to talk about the crucial mental health subjects that matter, and I am guilty of once-living like that. I vow to myself and to Kris in heaven that I will never avoid talking about mental health in the way that I did before. For the rest of my life, my biggest priority will always be bringing awareness to the mental health issues that impact my generation. No other life should be lost because of the negligence of avoiding the topic of mental health. I plan to be the change I wish to see in the world, in honor of Kris, who deserved better.

COVID-19 has impacted everyone in some sort of way. In my life, COVID-19 has impacted me in both positive and negative ways. I am grateful for both the good and the bad that has come with this pandemic because it has taught me brilliant lessons about life and who I am as a person. We must be welcome to all circumstances, both good and bad, because of the growth that comes with experiencing life. Thanks to COVID-19, the person I was in March and who I am today are very different. Now, I am more self-motivated and have learned to resiliently take life one day at a time. My outlook on the world is different; this is a good thing. Before this pandemic began, I was extremely distant from both myself and the world; I was too focused on just completing homework assignments and getting work done. I never allowed myself the time to get to know myself or find my place in this world. Once school was shut down in March, I had nothing but opportunities to get to know myself! I grew depressed feeling trapped at home and being away from all the things I loved about life outside of the house, but it still taught me more about myself, nonetheless. I began to find my place in the world and truly understand what matters to me. With the stress COVID-19 caused me, I grew to become one with myself by giving myself the reflection time that I needed. Meditation and self-expression became my saving grace, and now I feel stronger. Once finding myself, I decided it was time to dedicate my time to helping others find themselves. I now use both social media and a blog I own to encourage others to reflect within themselves and find who they are. The lessons I've learned are invaluable. I now know the importance of caring for myself and the ones around me. I've become more observant to see that the world is full of good and bad; this is a delicate balance. I now live my life to encourage the good in this world to keep being good and to help everyone I meet find their place in this world aswell. If it were not for this pandemic, I would not be myself right now. Reflecting on this year of COVID-19 only shows me that both the positive and negative experiences I've undergone are blessings that are here to help me grow. Life is full of balance and I have learned that sometimes the best gifts come from both the good and bad days.

My most current and ongoing creation is a blog that I began in June of 2020, called Blossoming Youth. Blossoming Youth is a mental health blog designed to bring awareness to important mental health topics that deserve more attention. This is my way of supporting my generation and bringing awareness to the things that matter. Each week, I write a new blog post about different mental health-related topics that impact generation Z. With how influential technology is to my generation, I am using the internet to create an environment that is both empowering and educational. People deserve a positive digital environment where they can not only feel empowered but also feel as if they are learning something new. Blossoming Youth is mostly for others' use, but I am also growing immensely from owning this blog. Since its creation in June, I've grown to be extremely passionate about mental health and I want to help others in any way I possibly can. This is why I plan to begin school in the fall of 2021 to major in Music Therapy. My goal is to provide mental health support to anyone I can. I would use the Amplify Continous Learning Grant to help pay for my future education that would allow me to further the education I provide on my blog. Majoring in Music Therapy would teach me about the enchanting connection between mental health and music. With this, I can eventually become a certified Music Therapist while owning my blog and supporting others through therapy services. I am not just going to school to receive the "standard" education of textbooks and PowerPoint presentations only to work a nine-to-five career. I am receiving my education to go out into the world and educate others in my own, unique way. With this grant, I can follow my dreams of giving my generation the mental health support it deserves.

I met Kris during my freshman year of high school. She was ambitious and supportive-- everything a friend could be. But, within my four years of knowing her, I watched her life slip away. People tend to think that suicide just happens; you die quickly and it's over. I've learned that this is not the case. Kris took her life on June 13th, 2020, but what many people don't realize, is that she was already dying slowly. Our society does not check in on our loved ones enough, and maybe if we did more often, more people would still be alive. About a year before Kris's death, she began to change. She no longer bubbly asked about her friend's days on the bus. She stopped wanting the lead roles in the school plays. Instead, every day she slowly grew more distant from her friends and herself. She started drinking more often than usual and coming to school feeling defeated from her lack of sleep. She was not herself, yet no one checked on her. I now think that perhaps if we all checked on her more often, she would still be alive. All it takes is asking someone, "how are you?" to show that you care. Something so simple can be all it takes to make someone feel more important to this world. I now strive to share this with everyone. On June 16th, I began a blog with the goal of spreading awareness about the importance of paying attention to mental health. This is my way of making a change and coping. Since then, I've interviewed friends who struggle with mental health and have wrote weekly blog posts about mental health issues that deserve more attention. I wish to use my blog to remind others that their lives matter; I end every blog with the quote, "Always remember that you are never alone." This is my way of supporting others and educating people who wouldn't otherwise pay attention to mental health. I can't bring Kris back, but I can use my life to encourage others to keep theirs.

Education means something to everyone. Learning is simply apart of being human. Because of this, education plays a huge role in everyone's lives, even when we do not think much of it. In my life, education is what allows me to evolve into the person that I dream to be. This has always been the case since the day I was born. Where would I be today if I never learned how to walk? Or dance? Education helps us to reach all sorts of milestones. Learning is what allows me to constantly evolve into the person I am destined to become. Education to me is about more than schoolbooks and highlighted notes; it is about constantly growing and developing into my own person. That is the role education plays in my life. I consider the idea of education to be like my own personal mentor! Education is something that is with me wherever I go; I learn something new every day whether it comes from a Google search or from a phone call with a friend. It would be a lie for me to say that I only receive an education when I am in school because that is not true! Education is about far more than coming to class on time and watching PowerPoint presentations. Education is something that goes wherever you go. Education is what has made me into who I am today! It taught me how to brush my hair, support my friends, write, cook, and so much more! With each day, I grow and develop a little more into the person I am destined to become because of the power of education. Learning is in every aspect of my life, and I am grateful for it. Education plays a huge role in my life by being the mentor I can count on to help me grow into a better person.

We are created by our experiences—which are unique to every individual. People soak in knowledge and traits from the world and others around them, and I apply this same concept to myself. I am uniquely me and view the world the way I do because of what I've experienced in life. I grew up in an average way: I had a dog, scraped my knees a few times at the park, loved ice cream, etc. What truly shaped my character and perspective on life has been my more recent experiences—particularly one this summer. On June 13th, 2020, I lost my best friend, Kris, to suicide. I do not write this to grieve, rather, this is my number one example as to how I, like everyone, are shaped by life experiences. The person I was on June 12th and who I am today are two different people, which is not necessarily a bad thing. After hearing the news about my friend, Kris, I, of course, needed to grieve. But that is not the most important side of the story. Losing her completely changed my life in a good way. Ever since I lost her, I realized that life should be about seizing your desires and speaking up about the things that matter to you. Speaking up about something can be the reason someone chooses to keep living their life. It may sound crazy to say that something as devastating as losing my friend benefited me in some kind of way, but I try to remain positive. Being 17, the loss of a loved one taught me things that I wouldn't have understood until years from now. It is thanks to Kris that I now have a new take on life and what my purpose is in this big world. Because of her, I am uniquely me. After her death, I began a blog about Gen-Z's mental health. Losing Kris made me realize that my generation does not pay enough attention to mental health. I've learned that life is a blessing that should not be taken for granted, so I should use each and every day to speak out about the things that matter to me. I'll carry this experience and the lessons I've learned from it for the rest of my life. In the future, I will always speak up about the issues that matter to me because now I understand how important it is to speak up about important topics. Perhaps if I or someone else had spoken up more about mental health to Kris, she would still be here today. I refuse to stand by and let people continue making the same mistake I made in the past. This is why I have promised myself that for the rest of my life, I will always strive to speak up about the topics that matter, even if others are afraid to bring the issues up. My future is forever changed. I believe in the power of bringing up topics that matter for the sake of those around me. It is because of Kris that I now dream to change lives one by one with my blog. This newfound perception will benefit me in the future because I now know to never fear speaking up about things in the future. I know how much power words can hold and vow to use mine to bring awareness to what matters in life. I miss Kris dearly, and it is thanks to her that my life is forever changed.

I plan on majoring in Music Therapy in college come fall of 2021! Music Therapy is a science-based approach to using music to help others achieve their goals. The study is almost magical; It has helped thousands of people in so many different ways! I am in love with the practice because of all it can do, but in my opinion, it isn't accessible enough! This is why I want to study Music Therapy. My ultimate goal is to become a music therapist so that I can bring Music Therapy to the communities that don't have access to the practice. It's not fair that both rural and lower-income communities don't have access to Music Therapy, even though the practice would be just as beneficial in those communities. Music Therapy is a gift that should be shared with the world. With a degree in Music Therapy, I plan on eventually opening my own practice in my hometown of Conyers, Georgia. There are so many communities who, just like mine, deserve to have access to Music Therapy. I want to share my love for the practice with the world, so I will first start with my hometown. I am too passionate about the practice to just stand by and watch it not be accessible to all. I plan to be the change I wish to see in the world by bringing Music Therapy to life, one practice at a time. It is my ultimate goal, and I plan to pursue it.

It is always fun to explain to friends how unique it is being the first child. Others do not tend to understand that being the firstborn child means dealing with a lot of chaos and pressure! Even though it can feel like the pressure is on me to be a good example for my siblings, I wouldn't have it any other way. To put it simply, being the firstborn has been a chaotic blessing. As the oldest, it has become a necessity for me to help my parents around the house since they work. Because of this, I am constantly keeping my three younger siblings under control, cooking for my family, and balancing school. It can be extremely stressful to have so many responsibilities, but it has taught me to handle pressure well and I've become extremely good with time management! Of course, though, my parent's way with me impacts more than just my home life. The biggest influence my parents have had is the influence on my mental health. My parents care for me beyond belief, as any parent would, but their beliefs can sometimes do more harm than good. My stepfather believes that I should remain home and not attend college because he believes that it is not the "role of a woman." I have willingly chosen to attend college anyway despite how it disappoints my family. They constantly remind me that I am setting a "bad example" for my younger siblings, but I have learned that I am being the best example I can be for them! As the first-generation, firstborn child in my family, I am showing my younger siblings that it is okay to defy gravity and do what may seem impossible. My parents disapprove of college simply because they do not understand what an education can do. I am here to be the best example for my siblings and show my family that there is more to an education than meets the eye! I know that all eyes are on me. It can sometimes feel so burdening knowing that everyone around me has an expectation set of me and I am defying each and every one of them, but I wouldn't change a thing! Being the firstborn simply means that I was made to set a good example for my younger siblings. This role I was born into has made me into the person I am today. I am determined to be the best version of myself for the sake of the eyes that are on me. Being the firstborn, first-generation college student has set me on a path towards a destiny of rewriting my family's expectations of what a child should be like. Everything that I do is for my younger siblings. I am the first: The first to go to college. The first to be born. And finally, the first to defy gravity. I am grateful to be the firstborn because it has developed me into being motivated, positive, responsible, and most importantly. . . fearless.

The dreamers of the world deserve to be represented. I have always loved music and believe that with a good song, one can bring together groups and create new emotions in others. This is why I wish to create a musical known as "Mama Made it to Broadway!" I have had the idea for a few months now since being inspired by my mom. Her life is ironic enough to be made into a musical, in my opinion! The show is about a mom who dreams of being on Broadway but could never follow her dreams because of getting married and having children. She winds up battling both her postpartum depression and the expectations others have of her before eventually making it onto Broadway with the help of a supposed enemy. It's dramatic yet humorous and inspiring. The point of making this musical is to give representation to women who live with postpartum depression and struggle with the changes that come with having children. There are so many TV shows, musicals, and books that represent youth, but there is nothing to represent mothers that tend to feel exhausted and hopeless after dealing with the uncertainty of motherhood. Moms are the reason the world goes round. I wish to create this musical for both those mothers and the dreamers who feel that they can't follow their dreams because of who they are. "Mama Made it to Broadway," is a story that is made to remind dreamers all around the world that their dreams are obtainable if they work for them and believe in them. The best creations are ones that are made to inspire. I wish for the world to someday see (and hear) this creation because of its meaning. This musical is not just to be entertainment for others. Just like any book or artistic creation, it has a purpose beyond entertainment. "Mama Made it to Broadway" is made to give others a sense of hope. I wish for the world to someday see my creation and feel that they too can obtain any dreams they have. After all, anything is possible when you work for it and believe in your ability to achieve it. Mama made it to Broadway! Anyone can follow their dreams too.