I have always been attracted to music and the production of music. Growing up, I learned only about classical music and wondered if this was the only pathway I can take when learning about it in college---then I found this wonderful jazz program, and I haven't looked back since. Music is a definitive factor in peoples lives, you never hear someone say that they hate listening to music, and though not everyone has the same taste, it doesn't make it less influential. The production, the spirit applied to it, the passion, the people who share your vision, is something so magical about connecting with people on a personal and global level. The United States is notorious for stomping on musicians dreams because they deem them all as "unreasonable careers", versus in Germany, they view musicians the same way they do for businessman (and woman). Those who tell you that you can't have a career in music are usually the ones who know nothing about the industry--at teaching or producing level. It's a constant battle of fighting peoples ideas of what it means to be successful in the music industry, and to remind yourself of who you are, In this day of age, I feel that we lack authenticity, the roots of where we came from, and who we claim to be as a society. In jazz, they valued making mistakes, trying something new, and being intentional with every move you make---also to not let them see you sweat. The nostalgia of this make came from the unfortunate suffering of POC, but also lack of platforms that would let these people speak---music was the only way to do it in an "acceptable way". My love for soul, RnB, jazz, alternative hip-hop, etc., has continued into my college career, and will continue to do so as I learn more and more about the craft through production, mixing, and vocal arrangements in Chicago. The difference in my pathway is also learning about business--many musicians don't understand the negotiation or contract(s) side of the industry. It could be argued it's probably the most important part of being a musician. I want to own all my masters, have a contract like 21 Savage (getting 60% of the profit and the record label getting 40%) and creating a culture of valuing every artist at every level. There isn't enough influential people helping the music and art communities, especially in poorer neighborhoods. I would love to give back to my community and become an ambassador for equal access to creative freedom in schools across the country. Ultimately, music is something I love to do and learn about. It's the most nerve-racking, exhilarating, heartbreaking, passion that I have ever had---but it's worth it. You have a community of people wanting you to succeed and when the time comes that I have people wishing the opposite of that for me, I'll know that I made it.

"The College Anti-Dropout" by Mrs. Worldwide "Stronger" Kanye West The pandemic subsided, and I felt like I was on top of the world, finally living some sort of "adult life" experience and being educated on my dream career. (Plus, it only felt right to start with a Kanye song). "Gotta Get Up" Kali Uchis After the high of living my life without my parents and starting my career, I needed to find the motivation again to wake up on times and do the assignments given to me. "Super Rich Kids" Frank Ocean I go to a private school and didn't understand how "super rich kids" acted or love their lives... I found out pretty quickly (but some are cool) "Save Your Tears" The Weeknd Wanted to flunk out of college because of pressure, but was clinging on to things that made me happy. This song kinda feels like a breakup song but also a sense of hope for the future. "Boredom" Tyler, The Creator Inbetween getting used to the school and seeing finals come around the corner, but not enough to worry just yet. I felt peaceful (which was great), but that could get boring sometimes. "Independent Women" Destiny's Child Finals was coming up, and I had to get in the zone of excelling in all of my classes. "Lauren" Men I Trust Finals week was over, I felt like I was floating and proud of myself of completing my first semester of college