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Donielle Woodard

1x

Finalist

General information

Hobbies & Interests

  • Band
  • African American Studies
  • Drums
  • Music
  • Neuroscience
  • Music Theory
  • Percussion
  • Social Justice
  • Advocacy And Activism

Reading

  • Music
  • Psychology

I read books multiple times a month.

Bio

I am a freshman at Southern Methodist University, pursuing a double major in percussion performance and corporate communications and public affairs with a minor in education. I am dedicated to creating opportunities for the youth, along with all people, to explore their creative potential. I advocate for equity in the arts, and strive to use my platform to amplify diverse voices, promote access to arts education, and champion social justice through creative expression. I am a member of over several organizations including the SMU Marching Band, Performers Collective, Engage Dallas (SMU community engagement) and more. I hold leadership positions such as being a Hegi Career Leader, Community Service Director of Association of Black Students (ABS), and a Meadows Ambassador for Prospective Students. Academically, I hold a 3.97 GPA, along with being in the University Honors Program while being named a Second Century Scholar and a Meadows Scholar. I also accepted a position in being a Research Assistant for the Assessment, Measurement, Personality, and Psychopathology Lab (AMPP), where I host experiments, collect data, and guide participants in conducting the study. Additionally, I had the life-changing experience to go to Children's Hospital and conduct hand-drumming with the hospitalized kids, using my musical gift for therapeutic purposes. I hosted group drumming sessions to relieve stress and anxiety, and encourage their curiosity and creativity.

Education

Southern Methodist University

Bachelor's degree program

2024 – 2028

Majors:
  • Communication, General
  • Music
  • Visual and Performing Arts, General
Minors:
  • Education, General

Mountain View College

Associate's degree program

2021 – 2024

Majors:
  • Science, Technology and Society

Bishop Dunne High School

High School

2017 – 2024

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Graduate schools of interest:
Rice University, The Boston Conservatory, Oberlin College, New York University
Majors of interest:
Music, Communication, General

Career

  • Children Youth and Family Intern

    Education · The Stewpot

    Jan 2025 – Jan 2025

  • Education Intern

    Arts · Dallas Museum of Art

    Jan 2025 – Jan 2025

  • Research Assistant

    Research · Assessment, Measurement, Personality, and Psychopathology (AMPP) Lab

    Jan 2025 – Present

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Music
Dream career goals:
My long term career goal is to be in a major symphony orchestra and open my business in teaching/mentoring minority children in orchestral music.
Has nursing license:
No

Future Interests

  • Advocacy
  • Politics
  • Volunteering
  • Philanthropy
  • Entrepreneurship
Marshall and Dorothy Smith Music Scholarship
I’ve thought about this essay for weeks, trying to find the perfect words that would truly capture my passion, the pride, the purpose I have for music. But I’ve come to the conclusion that perhaps, there are no words to describe how much I love music. The feeling I get when I perform, listen, and absorb; it’s nameless. My words fall short. But oh how my music speaks. There was never a day that went by where I didn’t consume music. I remember times where I’d gotten in trouble, and my punishments consisted of no jazz for a week. It was at the age of three when I climbed on top of the piano stool and began to play. My mom stopped what she was doing. She called countless private instructors and teachers. But nobody wanted to teach a three-year-old how to play music. I was just too young to start. Except for one teacher, who is still my mentor and my best friend today, that was willing to take a chance on me. And it was then that my journey in music began. After nine years of piano, I wanted something different. I got tired of piano, but I didn’t get tired of music. Once I entered the sixth grade, I had to choose an instrument for band. I was going to choose saxophone, but I ended up choosing percussion since the marimba looked like a piano. I remember the feeling when I first picked up those mallets. The trajectory of my life changed, and it was clear. From state competitions to performing at Carnegie Hall, something whispered deep within that this was where I was meant to be. But I was always told that music wasn’t a stable career. So, I learned to silence my passion and chase a dream that was never truly mine. I always told my parents that I want to pursue medicine and nursing, which was partially true. But that’s not what my heart begged for. And as college applications were approaching, I reflected on my journey in music, and broke down in tears. I couldn’t imagine letting go of what was a part of me. After a long conversation with my supportive parents, I am grateful to be entering my second year as a percussion performance major at SMU. But what followed my acceptance, was the biggest challenge of my life. Coming from a diverse and relatively deprived school, I had no problem fitting in. In fact, I was one of their best musicians, and it felt like the world had recognized my talent. But that quickly shut down after stepping foot at SMU. I was nowhere near the level of experience that the other percussionists had. Experientially, financially, and skillfully, I was behind. Every performance, I could not enjoy, because I felt the eyes of hundreds looking at me, making me want to prove my worth where I felt overshadowed by the stereotypes and unspoken assumptions about who gets to succeed in classical music. I made mistake after mistake and never felt like I was enough. I wanted to leave. Yet, through faith, I found clarity. I never wanted another young musician of color to feel what I felt that year. Access to music shouldn’t be a privilege, but a right. So I will mentor, uplift, and open doors for others, just as I break barriers for myself. Through teaching and mentoring, I aim to build a business for the young and underrepresented voices to claim their place in orchestral music, where every child knows they belong on the stage and beyond.
WCEJ Thornton Foundation Music & Art Scholarship
I’m not supposed to be at SMU. At the age of 3, I started playing piano. But when I picked up the mallets in the sixth grade, it felt like home. I had unlocked my talent, and over the years, it felt like the world had recognized it. I went to a small private Catholic school in Oak Cliff, Texas. Everyone looked like me. Black and brown skin, nappy hair, Southern accents. I felt safe in my craft. But at competitions, I rarely saw anyone who looked like me, making me question myself. When it came time for college auditions, SMU was my top choice because of their prestigious music program. But there was a problem with my audition. I didn’t know the four-mallet technique, a crucial skill in the percussion world. I already feared that being Black would count against me, and lacking that technique, I knew I wasn’t getting in. But I was accepted. And what followed was the biggest challenge of my life. I battled true imposter syndrome. I was nowhere near the level of experience that the other percussionists had. Experientially, financially, and skillfully, I was behind. Every performance, I could not enjoy, because I felt the eyes of hundreds looking at me, making me constantly want to prove my worth where I felt overshadowed by the stereotypes and unspoken assumptions about who gets to succeed in classical music. I made mistake after mistake and never felt like I was enough. I wanted to leave. But through faith, I found clarity. I realized I never wanted another young musician of color to feel what I felt that year. Music is a gift that everyone should be able to enjoy. Access to music shouldn’t be a privilege, but a right. My presence alone challenges expectations. But my mission goes deeper. My percussion is both protest and praise, resistance and rebirth. I will mentor, uplift, and open doors for others, just as I break barriers for myself. My impact won’t be measured in applause, but in the lives I touch and the minds I awaken. Through teaching and mentoring, I aim to build a business for the young and the underrepresented voices to claim their place in orchestral music, where every child knows they belong on the stage and beyond. I say I’m not supposed to be at SMU. But I am. To give back to my community.
Ward Green Scholarship for the Arts & Sciences
From the moment I climbed onto the piano stool at the age of three, music became more than just a hobby; it was an awakening. I came across not only an innate musical talent, but a passion that continues to shape by beliefs, relationships, and career goals. Music has been my companion, my calling, and my purpose. But I believe it is something more. A natural medicine, a universal language that connects hearts and minds, and an instrument through which I aspire to foster healing and hope within underserved communities. My journey with music only continued to deepen throughout my elementary years. But it was also during this time that I experienced the transformative power of music firsthand. I remember my grandfather sometimes sitting for hours being unresponsive. I did not understand that he was in the late stages of Alzheimer's disease. All I knew was that he was no longer smiling nor speaking to me when I entered the room. But everything changed when an old Motown song came on the radio. He slowly tapped his fingers and moved his head up and down. And I even saw a slight smile. I was amazed at the power of that song. How could music make a person come to life again? Did I possess that power with my music? My understanding of music’s impact evolved further during high school when I performed a solo piece on the marimba. It was a slow, reflective piece expressing hope and rebirth. As I played, the music transcended notes and rhythms, becoming an emotional conduit that visibly resonated with the audience. I felt it. But through facial expressions, words of emotion, and tears, the audience felt it. And this pivotal moment solidified my belief that music is a necessity. Not just for me, but for the world. That was when it clicked. Over the years, I have learned to play many different instruments. Now, I realize it is time that I learn to unleash the power of music and actually become the instrument – an instrument of God to provide both healing and hope to all. I envision a future where families reconnect with loved ones lost to the shadows of neurological diseases, where emotions are freely expressed, and where music serves as a natural medicine for the soul. Through my pursuit of percussion performance and music therapy at SMU, I hope to transform my personal passion into a lifelong mission of compassion and healing. I know that one day I will be an instrument of change by helping those suffering from speech impairments, Alzheimer’s disease, and other mental health disorders, to unlock their memories and find the freedom they once had. All through the power of music. I truly believe I deserve this scholarship because of my unwavering dedication to my musical goals, my passion for service and giving back to the community, and my proven ability to overcome challenges with resilience and determination. The journey ahead is long, but that is no reason for me to quit. With this opportunity, I will continue to grow, give back to others, and make a meaningful impact in my field music therapy and percussion performance.
Pamela Branchini Memorial Scholarship
As a double major in percussion performance and music therapy, I have quickly learned that collaboration is the foundation of growth. Collaboration in my field means coming together with fellow musicians to create something greater than any one performer could achieve alone. Percussion is inherently communal. Through the drumline, chamber ensembles, and an orchestral setting, the success of the group depends on each player’s ability to listen, respond, and support one another. To me, collaboration in percussion is about trust, communication, and a shared commitment to the pulse, the rhythm, and the music’s emotional arc. It's not just about playing in time but rather being in sync mentally and emotionally. Working with composers, dancers, vocalists, and other interdisciplinary artists also allows me to expand their creative language. Every collaboration is a chance to grow, experiment, and bring unique voices together to tell a story that resonates. I recently performed a duet on vibraphone with a vocalist. This was my very first duet, and I found myself nervous because it was a more intimate piece that required constant communication to avoid losing time and making mistakes. However, the more we rehearsed, the more we became familiar with the piece, together. And by surprise, we also became closer as friends. And the closer we have gotten in our friendship, the more it showed in our music. In addition, the piece we were working on was composed by my percussion colleague, which allowed the vocalist and I to use our music to extend his creation. It was at that moment, that I began to understand the true impact of music. It is simply a median toward connection, relationship, and community. To me, collaboration in music therapy revolves solely around the art of healing and service. It’s about working with clients, fellow therapists, and various teams to support a person’s well-being. It means meeting people where they are—emotionally, physically, and mentally—and using music as a bridge to connect and communicate. It’s a deeply empathetic process that values listening over leading. Collaborating with clients means co-creating experiences that are meaningful to them, whether that’s through drumming, songwriting, or simply being present in sound. When collaborating with other professionals, such as speech therapists, counselors, or teachers, it’s about integrating music into a broader care plan and ensuring that each person’s goals are supported holistically. An experience that stands out is my time at Children’s Health when I was invited to teach the children basic percussion techniques and rhythms, providing therapeutic engagement and hands-on learning for the hospitalized kids to express their creativity and reduce stress. I hosted group drumming sessions which fostered a sense of support, encouragement and community for all who were involved. I was able to build a bridge between my love for percussion and my love for children, providing me the chance to connect and build meaningful relationships with the kids. Not only did this benefit their time, but it encouraged their minds to explore their curiosities, embrace the gift of teamwork, and exhibit their creativity beyond limits. This interactive experience shaped my perspective of service. It shaped it so much, that I switched my original major (psychology) to music therapy. In both fields, collaboration is about building relationships. Whether it’s on stage or in a therapeutic space, success relies on openness, adaptability, and mutual respect. As someone passionate about both percussion and music therapy, I see collaboration not only as a tool for artistic expression and healing, but as a way to build community, foster connection, and create moments of shared understanding through rhythm, sound, and presence.
Redefining Victory Scholarship
Success in my journey of pursuing percussion performance and music therapy is defined by the impact I make in the lives of others through rhythm, sound, and healing. It is not solely about personal achievement, but rather about using my passion and gift to uplift communities, advocate for mental wellness, and create spaces where music becomes a tool for empowerment. As a musician and therapist, success means being a trailblazer in my field, inspiring others who look like me to pursue their dreams despite the challenges they may face. This scholarship represents an essential steppingstone toward that vision, providing me with the necessary resources to refine my craft, deepen my knowledge, and expand my reach. To fully convey my vision of success, I must first acknowledge the significance of representation in both percussion performance and music therapy. The world of classical and contemporary percussion is often dominated by individuals who do not share my background or lived experiences. As a Black woman in this space, I want to challenge these stereotypes and break barriers, demonstrating that excellence in percussion is not limited by race or gender. Success for me means being recognized not just for my skill, but for the authenticity and depth I bring to my performances. It means bringing my culture, heritage, and personal expression into my music, creating a sound that resonates beyond technical mastery. In music therapy, my success is measured by the lives I touch. The healing power of music is undeniable, and I am more than committed to using my talents to support those struggling with mental health challenges, trauma, and emotional distress. As a therapist, I aim to be a source of comfort and strength, particularly for marginalized communities that often lack access to holistic healing approaches. Success in this realm means developing innovative techniques that merge percussion with therapeutic practices, offering individuals an alternative way to communicate, express themselves, and heal. It also means advocating for the integration of music therapy in spaces where it is underutilized, such as schools, community centers, and correctional facilities. This scholarship will significantly enhance my ability to pursue this vision by providing financial support that will enable me to access high-quality education, professional development, and performance opportunities. Higher education is a critical component of my journey, as it will equip me with the theoretical knowledge and practical experience necessary to excel in both music therapy and percussion performance. The ability to study under esteemed professors, world-renowned artists, engage in research, and participate in hands-on training will allow me to develop a well-rounded approach to my work. Additionally, access to advanced musical instruments and technology will further refine my artistry, enabling me to experiment with new sounds and techniques that align with my musical and therapeutic goals. Beyond the classroom, this scholarship will open doors to networking and mentorship opportunities that are crucial for my growth. Connecting with accomplished percussionists, world-renowned musicians, music therapists, and industry leaders will provide me with guidance and inspiration, helping me navigate the challenges of my field. It will also grant me the opportunity to collaborate with other artists and therapists, fostering interdisciplinary projects that merge performance with healing practices. These collaborations will not only strengthen my skills but will also amplify the reach of my work, allowing me to make a greater impact on diverse populations. Furthermore, this scholarship will alleviate financial burdens that often serve as obstacles for pursuing higher education in the arts and therapy. The cost of tuition, instruments, travel, and professional development can be overwhelming, and without financial support, many talented individuals are unable to fully pursue their aspirations. By receiving this scholarship, I will have the freedom to focus on my studies and artistic growth without the constant worry of financial strain. This, in turn, will allow me to devote more time to community outreach and initiatives that align with my long-term goals. Success is not a destination but a continuous journey of growth, learning, and service. For me, it is about becoming an influential figure in both percussion performance and music therapy, using my talents to create change and uplift those who need it most. It is about embracing my identity in a field where I am underrepresented and using my presence to inspire future generations. With the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to realizing this vision in connection of being equipped with the knowledge, skills, and resources to make a lasting impact. I am committed to this path, and with the right support, I know that my definition of success will become a reality.
Nabi Nicole Grant Memorial Scholarship
Music is my biggest passion. From the moment I climbed onto the piano stool at the age of three, music became more than just a hobby; it was an awakening. In the 6th grade, I joined the band as a percussionist, and I immediately felt at home. Through my music, I’ve received trophies, medals, plaques, and many other forms of recognition. It felt like the world had recognized my talent. I came across not only an innate musical gift, but a passion that continues to shape by beliefs, relationships, and career goals. However, my perspective in music changed the moment I came to SMU. Coming from a diverse high school, I found myself being the only Black person in the percussion ensemble. There were no other students, nor professors, that looked like me. I was scared, angry, and frustrated. And it was at that moment that I felt the need to prove myself to man, to prove through my music that I belonged here, and that I was just as talented as everyone else. Music left as my passion and became my competition. I strived for an unrealistic standard of perfection. I placed my identity in how hard I practiced, performed, and how much approval I received from other musicians. Throughout the semester, I had been preparing a piece to play in front of the entire percussion studio. I had been working for months. I was excited to prove to everyone just how musically gifted I was. But once I stepped to the front, amid the silence awaiting my performance, with everyone staring as if they could see right through me, I blacked out. My anxiety took over and I forgot everything I had practiced. I ended up putting on the worst performance amongst everyone and had to stay at the front to receive critical feedback, knowing that I had the capability to play so much better. I was overwhelmed with embarrassment. I ended up letting this performance define me, and I had officially lost myself. One day, my friend invited me to a hangout, and I decided to go. When I got there, I saw that it was hosted by F.O.C.U.S, a Christian organization on campus. I was excited, but nervous, since my performance kept me distant from God. One of the leaders introduced themselves to me and offered to do a one-on-one Bible study with me every week. From the moment I agreed, everything changed. I poured my heart out, explaining my passion, yet my exhaustion, of music; how difficult it was balancing 11 classes, leadership positions, marching band, and clubs; being a Black female in a predominantly White field of study. And she pointed me towards one verse, that I abide by to this day: Galatians 1:10. I am currently in my second semester as a freshman at SMU, and my faith has never been stronger. I start every task, every practice, and every performance with prayer. I no longer seek the approval of man but instead evaluate how my music can be of service to Christ and others. This awakening even led me to change my major to Music Therapy, so that I can improve people’s mental health through the power of my music. I aim to be an instrument in tune with the Lord’s perfect will. The only reason I look back is to see how far I’ve come. My faith has grown; God has changed my life, my perspectives, and my heart. I no longer define myself through my music, but through my faith, my purpose, and the love I share with others.
Holli Safley Memorial Music Scholarship
As a Black female orchestral percussionist pursuing a double major in percussion performance and music therapy at SMU, it takes creativity, paired with courage, to fully express my potential and embrace vulnerability. Creativity means pushing boundaries, exploring uncharted ideas, and sharing pieces of yourself with the world. It takes an act of courage to stand on a stage or in a practice room, to confront doubts, stereotypes, and the fear of failure, and to let my music speak louder than the silence that once excluded voices like mine. From the moment I climbed onto the piano stool at the age of three, music became more than just a hobby; it was an awakening. I came across not only an innate musical talent, but a passion that continues to shape by beliefs, relationships, and career goals. Music has been my companion, my calling, and my purpose. But I believe it is something more. A natural medicine, a universal language that connects hearts and minds, and an instrument through which I aspire to foster healing and hope within underserved communities. My journey with music only continued to deepen throughout my elementary years. However, it was also during this time that I experienced the transformative power of music firsthand. I remember my grandfather sometimes sitting for hours being unresponsive. I did not understand that he was in the late stages of Alzheimer's disease, which has become a silent epidemic among African Americans. All I knew was that he was no longer smiling nor speaking to me when I entered the room. But everything changed when an old Motown song came on the radio. He slowly tapped his fingers and moved his head up and down. And I even saw a slight smile. I was amazed at the power of that song. How could music make a person come to life again? Did I possess that power with my music? My understanding of music’s impact evolved further during high school when I performed a solo piece on the marimba. It was a slow, reflective piece expressing hope and rebirth. As I played, the music transcended notes and rhythms, becoming an emotional conduit that visibly resonated with the audience. I felt it. But through facial expressions, words of emotion, and tears, the audience felt it. And this pivotal moment solidified my belief that music is a necessity. Not just for me, but for the world. That was when it clicked. Over the years, I have learned to play many different instruments. Now, I realize it is time that I learn to unleash the power of music and actually become the instrument – an instrument of God to provide both healing and hope to all. I envision a future where families reconnect with loved ones lost to the shadows of neurological diseases, where emotions are freely expressed, and where music serves as a natural medicine for the soul. Through my pursuit of percussion performance and music therapy at SMU, I hope to transform my personal passion into a lifelong mission of compassion and healing. I know that one day I will be an instrument of change by helping those suffering from speech impairments, Alzheimer’s disease, and other mental health disorders, to unlock their memories and find the freedom they once had. All through the power of music.
Autumn Davis Memorial Scholarship
Mental health is a silent battle waged within the minds of millions, often hidden behind smiles and unspoken words. Its impact is profound, shaping lives, relationships, and the very essence of who we are. Yet, amid this struggle, there is hope—hope found in connection, understanding, and the transformative power of music. My pursuit of music therapy is rooted in this belief: that music is more than just sound; it is a bridge to healing, a language that speaks where words fail. Through my studies in music and neuroscience, combined with my passion to explore how music affects neurological disorders, I aim to uncover new pathways to recovery, bringing light to those lost in the shadows of mental illness and making a lasting difference in the lives of others. From the moment I climbed onto the piano stool at the age of three, music became more than just a hobby; it was an awakening. I came across not only an innate musical talent, but a passion that continues to shape by beliefs, relationships, and career goals. Music has been my companion, my calling, and my purpose. But I believe it is something more. A natural medicine, a universal language that connects hearts and minds, and an instrument through which I aspire to foster healing and hope within underserved communities. My journey with music only continued to deepen throughout my elementary years. However, it was also during this time that I experienced the transformative power of music firsthand. I remember my grandfather sometimes sitting for hours being unresponsive. I did not understand that he was in the late stages of Alzheimer's disease, which has become a silent epidemic among African Americans. All I knew was that he was no longer smiling nor speaking to me when I entered the room. But everything changed when an old Motown song came on the radio. He slowly tapped his fingers and moved his head up and down. And I even saw a slight smile. I was amazed at the power of that song. How could music make a person come to life again? Did I possess that power with my music? My understanding of music’s impact evolved further during high school when I performed a solo piece on the marimba. It was a slow, reflective piece expressing hope and rebirth. As I played, the music transcended notes and rhythms, becoming an emotional conduit that visibly resonated with the audience. I felt it. But through facial expressions, words of emotion, and tears, the audience felt it. And this pivotal moment solidified my belief that music is a necessity. Not just for me, but for the world. That was when it clicked. Over the years, I have learned to play many different instruments. Now, I realize it is time that I learn to unleash the power of music and actually become the instrument – an instrument of God to provide both healing and hope to all. I envision a future where families reconnect with loved ones lost to the shadows of neurological diseases, where emotions are freely expressed, and where music serves as a natural medicine for the soul. Through my pursuit of percussion performance, music therapy, and neuroscience at SMU, I hope to transform my personal passion into a lifelong mission of compassion and healing. I know that one day I will be an instrument of change by helping those suffering from speech impairments, Alzheimer’s disease, and other mental health disorders, to unlock their memories and find the freedom they once had. All through the power of music.
Henry Respert Alzheimer's and Dementia Awareness Scholarship
Music and medicine—I believe this is the cure for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other neurological disorders. One afternoon when I was three years old, I was watching the Backyardigans, one of my favorite cartoons at the time. That catchy theme song always made me feel happy and free. On this particular day, I decided to climb up on the piano stool to see if I could recreate the music. After hitting different keys for about 20 minutes, I found the exact notes that matched the ones I heard on the television. It took me less than 30 minutes to play a portion of the theme song by ear. However, it took my mother weeks before she could find a piano teacher willing to take a chance on a 3-year-old. Throughout elementary school, I continued my piano lessons. No one had to make me practice; in fact, it was my favorite activity because I felt unconfined and free to explore new combinations of sound. It was also during this time that I began to realize the effects that music had on others. I was in the first grade when I saw my grandfather sometimes sitting for hours being unresponsive. I did not understand that he was in the late stages of Alzheimer's, which has become a silent epidemic among African-Americans. I was confused. All I knew was that he was no longer smiling or speaking to me when I entered the room. However, everything changed when an old Motown song came on the radio. He slowly tapped his fingers and moved his head up and down. I even saw a slight smile. I was so amazed at the power of that song. How could music make a person come to life again? Did I also possess that power when I played the piano? During middle school, I joined the band and was drawn to the percussion section since the mallet instruments resembled a piano. I immediately felt at home. Within a few days, the band directors were amazed at how quickly I caught on to different rudiments and rhythms that were viewed as “difficult.” Over time, I received trophies, medals, plaques, and many other forms of recognition throughout the state. It felt like the world had recognized my talent. That was fine, but I knew there was a different purpose to my music. As I got older, the impact of music became more apparent to me. A few months ago, I performed at Carnegie Hall, and one of the pieces my band performed was titled “Not Alone,” an orchestral piece written by Randall Standridge. Many people who struggle with mental health issues often feel isolated, forgotten, and alone. They suffer in silence, and face their troubles with no support. But as the title of this work implies, they are not alone. And this piece of music outwardly expressed the pain, hurt, and sorrow associated with mental health, with a bold conclusion of reassurance, freedom, and hope. At this moment, our music was not merely a performance, but a message. Not only did I perform the music, I felt it. We felt it. And most importantly, the audience felt it. Standing on that stage in front of hundreds of people who were moved by a piece that I performed was one of the best experiences in my life. We showed everyone, that no one, is alone. I knew from above, that my grandpa was proud. That was when it clicked. Over the years, I have learned to play many different instruments. Now, I realize it is time that I learn to unleash the power of music and actually become the instrument – an instrument of change to provide both healing and hope to African-Americans and other under-served populations. I envision a community where family members can speak with their loved ones again, where memories and emotions are unlocked and expressed. As one who finds joy in helping others, it is my passion to pursue music along with psychology and neuroscience to further understand the interconnection between the two, along with how the impact of music and rhythmic-based therapies affect a number of cognitive disorders. Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other neurocognitive disorders have always carried the negative impact of disconnecting loved ones, limiting the expression of emotions, and making people feel captive and bound within themselves. Music has the power to transform the mind in a way where people begin to feel free. To feel free is to feel welcomed, encouraged, unhinged, and to have full permission to embrace who you are as a person. Music is a form of medicine; it is a natural medicine that reaches the depths of the mind, body, and soul. As I begin my percussion and psychological studies at SMU, I aim to pursue clinical research in music and the mind, along with developing effective music and sound-based therapies that require a deep understanding of how music and rhythm affect the brain. Just like the freedom I experienced at three years old, I aspire to help others achieve that freedom for the rest of their lives. I know that one day I will be an instrument of change by helping those suffering from speech impairments, Alzheimer’s disease, and other neurological disorders, to unlock their memories and find the freedom they once had, all through the power of music.
Donielle Woodard Student Profile | Bold.org