From an early age, music has felt like an essential part of me. Whether singing along to my favorite songs or experimenting with my own tunes, I’ve always felt a unique connection to it. I have always had a strong connection to singing that is one thing that has never left me ever since I was a child. I think what draws me in to singing compared to other forms of music is that myself alone can produce a beautiful musical sound. It is fascinating how humans can create music just by themselves. I first realized this interest when I joined my elementary school chorus, a passion that grew as I continued singing in middle school. By then, I was eager to explore music more deeply, so I took every music class I could, learning the saxophone and handbells. Middle school was when I first felt the thrill of creating music and the satisfaction that came from sharing it with others. However, when I started high school, my path took a detour; I drifted from music for two years. But that changed the summer after my sophomore year when I stumbled upon musical theater, an art form that brought my love for music back to life. Theater felt more than just a new interest—it felt like coming home. When I first stepped on stage, I felt an unexpected but deep connection. I had tried other hobbies before, moving from one to the next without ever feeling fully engaged. But performing on stage, embodying different characters, and singing for an audience made me feel like I belonged somewhere. Theater allowed me to express parts of myself I hadn’t accessed before, while also learning about myself through each character I portrayed. For the first time, I felt part of something larger than myself, and it’s this feeling that inspires me to pursue a major in musical theater. Music, I believe, is one of the most powerful forms of communication. It can move people, shift perspectives, and evoke emotions that words alone often can’t. My goal after high school is to refine my craft, create music and performances I am proud of, and share my love of music with others. I am excited to develop the skills to bring characters to life and make my performances resonate with audiences, hoping to pass along the same joy that music has always brought to me.