My name is Gianna Shaw, and I am a twenty-year-old college student entering my sophomore year. I would describe myself as kind, positive, and deeply connected to nature. I aspire to earn my bachelor’s degree in marketing at West Chester University of Pennsylvania and hope to inspire others by sharing my story. My desire to be a safe space for my loved ones and to support others through their struggles drives me forward. A great source of that inspiration has been Tomorrow X Together (TXT), a K-pop group that has significantly shaped my life. Initially introduced to K-pop through BTS, I was curious about other groups, and when I watched TXT’s interviews, I was instantly drawn to their humor and sincerity. Beomgyu quickly became my favorite member, and their music gave me comfort and motivation. TXT’s central message—the trials of youth and the journey into adulthood—encouraged me to step out of my shell. Because of them, I began reaching out to new people, building friendships, and even getting my first job. Their music helped me navigate heartbreak and loneliness, reminding me that no matter who comes and goes in my life, TXT would always be there. After graduating high school in 2023, my life changed drastically. My mother and stepfather divorced, and my brother chose to move with her to Pennsylvania while I stayed in Florida with my stepfather to pursue college. Suddenly, I was separated from my twin for the first time, and I quickly became overwhelmed. My stepfather worked twelve-hour days, and I spent my mornings in college classes and nights at work. We only shared dinner once a week, and I felt increasingly lonely. I began handling groceries and cooking while my mental health deteriorated. Eventually, depression and anxiety left me unable to work or attend class. I isolated myself, unable to leave my house without panic attacks. When TXT announced their 2024 tour Act: Promise, it gave me a reason to push myself again. I battled my anxieties and attended their concerts, though I remember little because of my dissociation. Shortly after, I visited family in Pennsylvania, hoping for healing. But in June 2024, tragedy struck. My mother relapsed and overdosed, and just days later, my stepfather’s close colleague died by suicide. Five days after that, my stepfather also took his own life. Losing him shattered me—he had been my father figure for ten years, and I had lived with him up until that moment. In the midst of grief, I cut ties with my mother due to her addiction and moved in with my grandparents. Despite the darkness, TXT remained my anchor. I filled my space with their posters, plushies, and music. They gave me comfort when I could not leave the house for months. On July 2, 2024, TXT released We’ll Never Change. The timing felt like fate. That song reached me when I was at my lowest, reminding me I was not alone. It healed me in ways I cannot fully describe. My favorite TXT memory was attending Act: Sweet Mirage in May 2023 in Duluth, Georgia. It was my first time with floor tickets and VIP access, and the experience was magical. Just days after graduating high school, I was filled with joy as I stood only five rows from the stage, surrounded by fellow fans who shared my love for TXT. That night remains one of my most cherished memories. Today, I am proud of my progress. I have returned to work, this time at Target, motivated by the thought of funding future TXT tours and albums. I will be seeing them again this year during Act: Tomorrow in Newark and Dallas, something I look forward to immensely. My education will be supported through scholarships, grants, and private loans, as I am financially independent. TXT has also inspired my career goals. Though I am not musically talented, their marketing captivated me. The way I became a loyal fan—and how much joy I find in supporting them—sparked my passion to work in music marketing. One day, I hope to work with artists like TXT, helping share their art while thanking them for the role they have played in my life.