One thing I hope to continue building in the future is MusicAAA, the global nonprofit organization I founded to help children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. While the organization already supports children through volunteer-led music activities, I want to expand it into a larger community that increases access to music education, emotional support, and creative expression for underserved families. As someone who has ADHD and autism myself, I understand how difficult it can sometimes feel to navigate environments that are not designed for the way you think or communicate. Because of these experiences, I wanted to create a space where children could feel supported, understood, and confident through music. I realized that music could help people express emotions and connect with others in ways that traditional environments sometimes could not. Building MusicAAA became my way of turning personal challenges into something that could positively impact others. In the future, I hope to expand MusicAAA into more schools, hospitals, and community centers while training more student volunteers to lead programs. I want to create opportunities for children who may not otherwise have access to music education or therapy resources. I also hope to develop mentorship opportunities so young musicians can build leadership and communication skills while serving their communities. What makes this goal meaningful is that it is not only about building an organization, but also about building confidence and connection within individuals. Through MusicAAA, I have seen children become more expressive and socially comfortable through music activities. Watching those changes reinforced my belief that creativity can genuinely improve people’s lives. I also saw volunteers become more compassionate and confident through working with the children. Building MusicAAA has already changed me personally by teaching me leadership, patience, and resilience. Organizing programs and balancing responsibilities required long-term commitment and adaptability. These experiences showed me that meaningful change happens gradually through consistency and service. Ultimately, I hope to build a future where music and creativity are more accessible regardless of background or personal challenges. By continuing to grow MusicAAA, I hope to create supportive spaces where children feel valued, understood, and empowered through music and community.

One thing I hope to continue building in the future is MusicAAA, the global nonprofit organization I founded to help children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. While the organization already supports children through volunteer-led music activities, I want to expand it into a larger and more sustainable community that increases access to music education, emotional support, and creative expression for underserved families around the world. As someone who has ADHD and autism myself, I understand how difficult it can sometimes feel to navigate environments that are not designed for the way you think or communicate. Because of those experiences, I wanted to create a space where children could feel supported, understood, and confident through music. I realized that music could help people express emotions and connect with others in ways that traditional environments sometimes could not. Building MusicAAA became my way of turning personal experiences into something that could positively impact others. In the future, I hope to build MusicAAA into an organization that reaches more schools, hospitals, and community centers while training larger numbers of student volunteers to lead programs. I want to create opportunities for children who may not otherwise have access to music education or therapy resources. I also hope to expand mentorship programs within the organization so young musicians can learn leadership, empathy, and communication skills while giving back to their communities. What makes this goal meaningful to me is that it is not only about building an organization, but also about building confidence and connection within individuals and communities. I have seen children become more expressive, engaged, and socially comfortable through music activities, and those moments reinforced my belief that creativity can genuinely improve people’s lives. I also watched volunteers grow more compassionate and confident through working with the children, showing me that positive impact often extends far beyond the original goal itself. Building MusicAAA has already changed me personally by teaching me leadership, patience, and resilience. Managing programs, organizing volunteers, and balancing responsibilities required long-term commitment and adaptability. These experiences strengthened my confidence and showed me that meaningful change comes through consistency and service. Ultimately, I hope to build a future where music and creativity are more accessible to people regardless of background or personal challenges. By continuing to grow MusicAAA, I hope to create supportive spaces where children feel valued, understood, and empowered. I believe communities become stronger when people use their talents to help others, and I want my future to center around continuing that mission through music, education, and service.

Watercolor painting has become one of my favorite forms of artistic expression because of the way it captures emotion, atmosphere, and movement so naturally. I love the balance between control and unpredictability that watercolor requires. Unlike other mediums, watercolor flows freely across the paper, forcing the artist to adapt and work with the paint rather than against it. This makes every piece feel unique and expressive. Through watercolor, I learned how color, lighting, and composition can completely shape the mood of a scene. I am especially drawn to landscapes and cityscapes because they allow me to explore atmosphere and storytelling through reflections, shadows, and movement. Painting has also taught me patience and observation. Watercolor requires careful layering and attention to subtle details, which helped me become more thoughtful and creative in my artistic process. As a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University, I hope to continue combining creativity, leadership, and community impact in my future career. Long-term, I want to pursue work that allows me to use creativity and the arts to positively influence communities, whether through education, outreach, or nonprofit initiatives. I believe art can connect people emotionally and encourage reflection in ways that words alone sometimes cannot. The first watercolor sample I uploaded was inspired by peaceful coastal sunsets and the calming atmosphere of the ocean. I wanted to capture the warm light reflecting across the water and the feeling of stillness that comes from watching the sun set near the beach. I was especially inspired by the contrast between the vibrant sunset colors and the softer reflections in the waves and sand. Through this painting, I hoped to create a scene that felt peaceful and emotionally uplifting. The second watercolor sample was inspired by rainy evenings in a city environment. I have always been fascinated by how rain transforms urban streets through reflections, glowing lights, and movement. In this painting, I focused on capturing the reflections on the wet pavement and the energy created by people moving through the city at night. I chose watercolor because its blending and flowing qualities naturally enhance the mood and motion of rainy scenes. Together, these two paintings reflect what I love most about watercolor: its ability to communicate atmosphere and emotion while turning everyday scenes into something expressive and memorable.

To me, selflessness means using your time, abilities, and experiences to improve the lives of others without expecting recognition in return. I believe true selflessness is shown through consistent actions, especially when helping others requires patience, sacrifice, and long-term commitment. Throughout my life, I have tried to embody selflessness through music, community service, and mentorship, particularly by supporting children with autism and ADHD through the nonprofit organization I founded, MusicAAA. As someone who has ADHD and autism myself, I understand how isolating it can sometimes feel to struggle with communication, focus, or social interaction in environments that are not always accommodating. These experiences shaped my empathy and motivated me to help others facing similar challenges. Rather than allowing those struggles to discourage me, I wanted to create opportunities for children to feel supported, understood, and confident through music. This motivation led me to found MusicAAA, a global nonprofit organization that helps children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. Through MusicAAA, student musicians volunteer to work with children using rhythm exercises, collaborative activities, and musical engagement designed to encourage emotional expression and social development. Building this organization required significant time, organization, and dedication, but seeing the impact on children and families made every challenge worthwhile. One example that strongly reflects selflessness involved working with a child who initially struggled to participate in group activities and avoided interacting with others during sessions. At first, the child rarely spoke, stayed isolated from the group, and seemed uncomfortable engaging with the volunteers. Rather than pressuring participation, we slowly introduced simple rhythm exercises and allowed the child to engage at their own pace. Over time, music became a comfortable way for the child to communicate and connect with others. Eventually, the child became more expressive and willing to participate in collaborative activities with the group. Watching that transformation was incredibly meaningful because it demonstrated how patience and support can positively impact someone’s confidence and emotional well-being. Moments like these taught me that helping others is often not about dramatic gestures, but about consistently creating supportive environments where people feel understood and encouraged. Beyond direct work with children, I also tried to embody selflessness by mentoring and supporting the student volunteers involved in MusicAAA. Many volunteers joined because of their passion for music, but through working together, they also developed empathy, leadership, and communication skills. I learned that selflessness can inspire others to contribute positively as well. By creating opportunities for volunteers to serve their communities through music, the organization grew into something larger than any one individual. As a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University, I continue striving to balance academics, leadership, and service while remaining focused on helping others. My experiences taught me that selflessness is not about seeking praise or recognition. In fact, some of the most meaningful acts of service happen quietly through consistency, compassion, and willingness to help others even when no reward is guaranteed. In the future, I hope to continue expanding MusicAAA so more children and underserved communities can access music education and therapy programs. I also hope to continue using music and education to create supportive spaces where people feel empowered and connected. Ultimately, I embody selflessness by using my experiences, time, and passion for music to support others and create opportunities for growth and inclusion. Helping people feel understood, confident, and valued is the kind of impact I hope to continue making throughout my life.

Leadership, to me, is not about authority or recognition. It is about creating opportunities for others, building supportive communities, and remaining committed to helping people even when challenges arise. What makes me a leader is my ability to turn personal experiences into motivation to positively impact others, especially through music, education, and community service. As someone who has ADHD and autism myself, I understand firsthand how difficult it can sometimes feel to navigate environments that are not designed for the way you think or communicate. Growing up, I often experienced challenges with focus, overstimulation, and feeling misunderstood. However, these experiences also shaped my empathy and taught me how important patience, encouragement, and inclusion can be. Instead of viewing these experiences only as obstacles, I learned how they could help me better understand and support others facing similar struggles. This perspective ultimately inspired me to found MusicAAA, a global nonprofit organization that helps children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. Through MusicAAA, student musicians volunteer to work with children using rhythm activities, musical games, and collaborative exercises designed to encourage confidence, communication, and emotional expression. Creating this organization required leadership in many forms, including organizing volunteers, communicating with families, planning programs, and building partnerships with organizations that supported our mission. One of the most important things I learned through this experience is that strong leadership begins with listening. Every child involved in MusicAAA responds differently to music and social interaction, so it was important to create an environment where individuals felt comfortable and understood. Some children connected through rhythm, others through singing or collaborative activities, and many simply benefited from having a supportive space where they could express themselves freely. Seeing children become more confident and engaged through music reinforced my belief that leadership is about helping others grow rather than focusing on personal recognition. Being a leader also means remaining resilient during challenges. Building and expanding a nonprofit organization while balancing academics and other responsibilities required persistence and long-term commitment. As a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University, I learned how to manage multiple responsibilities while continuing to focus on my goals. There were moments when balancing leadership, academics, and personal challenges felt overwhelming, but those experiences strengthened my discipline and adaptability. I also believe leadership means leading by example. I try to show others that challenges such as ADHD or autism do not define a person’s potential. Instead, they can create unique perspectives, creativity, and empathy that become strengths when used positively. Through MusicAAA and my future goals in music and education, I hope to continue encouraging others to embrace their differences while using their abilities to help people around them. Ultimately, what makes me a leader is my commitment to creating positive impact through empathy, service, and perseverance. My experiences taught me that leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room or receiving the most recognition. It is about making others feel supported, understood, and empowered to succeed. I hope to continue using those values throughout my future career and community work to help create opportunities for others and strengthen the communities around me.

I plan to make a positive impact on the world by combining music, education, and community service to create opportunities for people who may not otherwise have access to support or creative expression. Throughout my life, I have seen how music can help people build confidence, communicate emotions, and connect with others in meaningful ways. These experiences shaped my long-term goals and inspired me to focus not only on personal success, but also on how I can use my skills and passions to help others. One of the most important steps I have taken toward this goal was founding MusicAAA, a global nonprofit organization that helps children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. Through this organization, student musicians volunteer to work with children using rhythm activities, collaborative musical exercises, and creative engagement designed to support emotional expression and social development. Working directly with these children changed my understanding of what positive impact truly means. I saw how music could help children who struggled with communication or confidence become more expressive, engaged, and comfortable connecting with others. These experiences showed me that music is far more than entertainment. It can be a powerful tool for emotional support, education, and community building. Through MusicAAA, I also learned the importance of leadership, collaboration, and empathy. Building programs, organizing volunteers, and communicating with families required patience and adaptability, but those challenges reinforced my commitment to continuing this work in the future. As a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University, I hope to continue expanding my education while developing the knowledge and skills necessary to grow MusicAAA and increase access to music education and therapy programs for underserved communities. In the future, I would like to continue combining nonprofit work with music education because I believe creativity can positively influence people in lasting ways. Too often, the arts are treated as secondary to other academic or professional fields, but my experiences have shown me that music can improve emotional well-being, strengthen confidence, and bring communities together. I also hope to make a positive impact by encouraging younger students to pursue their passions while using their abilities to help others. Many students feel pressure to abandon creative interests as they grow older, especially when pursuing careers viewed as more practical or financially stable. I want to demonstrate that artistic pursuits and service can work together to create meaningful change. Through leadership, mentorship, and education, I hope to inspire others to use their talents in ways that positively affect their communities. Beyond music itself, I want to contribute positively by building supportive environments where people feel included and valued. One of the most meaningful lessons I learned through my nonprofit work is that even small acts of encouragement and connection can significantly affect someone’s confidence and emotional well-being. Whether through music programs, mentorship, or future educational work, I hope to continue creating spaces where people feel understood and empowered. Ultimately, I plan to make a positive impact by using creativity and service to strengthen communities and improve people’s lives. My long-term goal is not only to grow MusicAAA, but also to continue promoting the importance of music, education, and emotional support in underserved communities. I believe positive change begins with helping individuals feel connected, confident, and supported, and I hope to spend my future contributing to that mission through leadership, education, and the arts.

Higher education will help me achieve my future goals by giving me the knowledge, experiences, mentorship, and opportunities necessary to expand the impact I hope to make through music, education, and community service. Throughout my life, I have learned that meaningful change requires not only passion, but also the ability to combine creativity, leadership, and practical skills to build sustainable programs that positively affect others. Attending New York University as a Presidential Honors Scholar has already strengthened my academic foundation and broadened my perspective, and I hope to continue using higher education as a platform to expand my long-term goals. One of the most important ways higher education facilitates my future plans is by allowing me to combine different disciplines and perspectives. While I am studying economics, my long-term interests extend deeply into music, nonprofit leadership, education, and community outreach. I believe higher education provides a unique environment where students can develop both specialized expertise and interdisciplinary understanding. Through coursework, mentorship, and collaboration with peers from diverse backgrounds, I have learned how leadership, communication, and organizational skills can strengthen creative and service-oriented work. My future goals center around continuing to expand MusicAAA, the global nonprofit organization I founded to help children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. Through MusicAAA, I have worked with children who often struggle with communication, confidence, or social interaction, and I have seen firsthand how music can help them express themselves and connect with others. These experiences changed my understanding of what music could accomplish. Music became more than a personal passion or performance skill; it became a tool for emotional support, education, and community building. Higher education is essential to helping me grow this mission because it provides access to research, mentorship, and practical experiences that can improve the effectiveness and reach of programs like MusicAAA. Learning more about education, psychology, nonprofit management, and communication will allow me to create stronger programs that better support the needs of children and families. It will also help me develop the leadership and organizational skills necessary to sustain and expand a nonprofit organization long-term. In addition to academics, higher education exposes me to communities of people who are passionate about creating positive change in different fields. Being surrounded by ambitious and creative peers has inspired me to think more broadly about how music and the arts can impact society. Collaboration with others has taught me that meaningful impact rarely happens individually. It requires people from different backgrounds and disciplines working together toward a shared goal. Beyond MusicAAA, I also hope to contribute positively through music education and advocacy for arts accessibility. Too often, the arts are treated as secondary compared to other academic or professional paths, especially in underserved communities where resources may already be limited. My experiences showed me that music can profoundly improve confidence, emotional well-being, communication, and human connection. In the future, I hope to continue promoting the importance of arts education while creating opportunities for students who may not otherwise have access to music programs. Higher education has also strengthened qualities that will help me create positive impact throughout my life, including discipline, adaptability, and resilience. Balancing academics, leadership responsibilities, nonprofit work, and other commitments taught me how to manage challenges while remaining focused on long-term goals. These experiences reinforced my belief that positive change requires consistency and persistence over time. Ultimately, I plan to create a positive impact by continuing to combine music, education, and community outreach to support underserved communities and help individuals feel more connected, confident, and empowered. Whether through expanding MusicAAA, teaching music, or developing new programs that increase accessibility to the arts, I hope to use my education to build opportunities for others and strengthen communities through creativity and service. Higher education is important to me not only because it provides career opportunities, but because it gives me the tools and experiences necessary to transform my goals into meaningful action. I hope to continue using what I learn both inside and outside the classroom to positively impact the lives of others for many years to come.

My name is Kenny Ji, and I am a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University studying economics while continuing to pursue my long-term passion for music, nonprofit work, and community impact. Throughout my life, I have balanced academics, athletics, music, and leadership experiences that have shaped both my character and future goals. Many of the opportunities and accomplishments I am most proud of came from learning how to stay disciplined, adaptable, and motivated even when balancing multiple responsibilities at once. Family has played an important role in shaping who I am today. Growing up, I was encouraged to pursue both academic achievement and personal passions seriously. My family valued education, hard work, and perseverance, which influenced the way I approached school, extracurricular activities, and long-term goals. At the same time, I learned the importance of independence and self-motivation because many of my accomplishments required consistent effort over long periods of time. Whether through academics, athletics, or music, I learned that success often comes from persistence rather than immediate results. In school, I pushed myself to explore different interests and challenge myself in multiple areas. Academically, I worked hard to maintain strong performance while pursuing leadership and service opportunities outside the classroom. Becoming a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University was one of the accomplishments that reflected years of dedication and discipline. At the same time, I also remained deeply involved in music and community service because I wanted my education to extend beyond academics alone. Athletics also became a major part of my life and personal development. In track and field, I broke my school’s sprint record, an accomplishment that required years of training, consistency, and mental resilience. Sprinting taught me how important preparation, discipline, and confidence are in achieving difficult goals. Unlike many team sports where responsibility is shared, sprinting often places pressure entirely on the individual in a matter of seconds. Learning how to manage that pressure helped me become more mentally focused and resilient in other areas of life as well. Breaking the school record was meaningful not only because of the achievement itself, but because it represented the long-term effort and persistence behind it. Music has also been central to my educational journey and future plans. Over time, I realized that music could do much more than entertain people. It could help individuals express themselves, build confidence, and create meaningful human connection. This realization led me to found MusicAAA, a global nonprofit organization that helps children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. Through this work, I have seen firsthand how music can positively impact children emotionally and socially, especially those who may struggle in traditional environments. My future plans are centered around continuing to combine music, education, and community service to create positive impact. I hope to continue expanding MusicAAA so more underserved communities can access music education and therapy programs. I also plan to pursue further studies related to music and education while continuing nonprofit and outreach work. Long-term, I would like to teach music and continue building programs that demonstrate how the arts can improve confidence, emotional well-being, and connection within communities. Ultimately, my experiences in academics, athletics, music, and leadership have all contributed to the person I am today. They taught me discipline, resilience, empathy, and the importance of using my abilities to help others. No matter what career path I pursue in the future, I hope to continue creating opportunities that positively impact people and strengthen communities through education, service, and the arts.

My career goals center around combining music, education, and community service to create opportunities for people who may not otherwise have access to the arts. As a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University, I hope to continue expanding my nonprofit organization, MusicAAA, which helps children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. In the future, I would like to continue growing this work while also pursuing a career connected to music education and community outreach. My long-term goal is to help make music more accessible to underserved communities and show how the arts can positively impact emotional well-being, confidence, and human connection. While music has been the primary focus of my academic and professional goals, chess has also played an important role in shaping the way I think and approach challenges. Playing chess taught me lessons that extend far beyond the game itself and have influenced how I approach leadership, decision-making, and long-term goals. One of the most important things chess taught me is the importance of patience and strategic thinking. In chess, strong decisions are rarely made impulsively. Players must evaluate positions carefully, think several steps ahead, and remain calm under pressure. This mindset has helped me academically and in leadership roles because I learned how to approach problems thoughtfully rather than reacting emotionally or rushing decisions. Building and managing MusicAAA often required long-term planning, adaptability, and careful organization, all skills that were reinforced through years of playing chess. Chess also taught me resilience. Losing games is an unavoidable part of improvement, and success in chess depends on the ability to analyze mistakes honestly and continue learning from them. This lesson has been especially valuable in my educational and nonprofit work. Whether facing challenges while organizing programs, balancing responsibilities, or working toward long-term goals, I learned that setbacks are opportunities for growth rather than reasons to quit. Chess helped me become more disciplined and persistent, qualities that continue to support me in both academics and leadership. Another important lesson I learned from chess is the value of creativity and flexibility. While chess involves logic and structure, it also rewards originality and adaptability. Every game is different, and players must adjust constantly to new situations. Similarly, in nonprofit work and music education, there is rarely one perfect solution to every challenge. Working with children through MusicAAA taught me the importance of adapting approaches based on individual needs, just as chess players adjust strategies depending on the position in front of them. Perhaps most importantly, chess taught me humility and continuous self-improvement. No matter how much experience someone has, there is always more to learn. This mindset motivates me to continue growing both personally and professionally. I hope to apply these lessons throughout my future career by remaining thoughtful, adaptable, and committed to helping others. Ultimately, my experiences with both music and chess shaped the person I am today. Music gave me purpose and a way to positively impact others, while chess strengthened the discipline, patience, and problem-solving skills that will help me pursue those goals successfully in the future.

I chose music because it was one of the first things that allowed me to express myself in a meaningful and lasting way. What initially drew me to music was its emotional power and the way it could connect people regardless of language or background. Over time, music became much more than a hobby or academic interest. It became a major part of my identity and eventually shaped my goals, values, and understanding of how I wanted to contribute to my community. One of the reasons I was drawn to music specifically is because of how personal and universal it is at the same time. Music allows individuals to communicate emotions that are often difficult to express through words alone, while also bringing people together through shared experiences. As I spent more time studying and performing music, I became increasingly interested in its ability to positively influence people emotionally and socially. I realized that music could comfort people, build confidence, and create meaningful human connections in ways that few other art forms could. My involvement in music became especially impactful when I founded MusicAAA, a global nonprofit organization that helps children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. Through this work, I saw firsthand how music could help children communicate, focus, and express themselves more comfortably. Some children who struggled socially or emotionally became more engaged and confident through rhythm exercises, singing, and collaborative musical activities. Watching those changes occur completely changed the way I viewed music and its role in society. Working with these children helped me understand that music is not only an art form, but also a tool that can improve people’s lives. It taught me that music has practical value beyond entertainment or performance. Music can create safe spaces for self-expression, help people feel understood, and strengthen communities. These experiences gave my passion for music a deeper sense of purpose because I realized that I could use music to help others in meaningful ways. My involvement in music has also had a major impact on my personal growth. Studying music taught me patience, discipline, and perseverance because improvement requires consistent effort over long periods of time. Performing helped me become more confident and comfortable communicating with others. Leading MusicAAA also taught me leadership, organization, and collaboration skills as I worked with volunteers, families, and community organizations to expand programs and outreach efforts. As a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University, music continues to shape both my education and future goals. I hope to continue combining music, education, and nonprofit work to make music more accessible to underserved communities. In the future, I would like to continue expanding MusicAAA while pursuing further studies related to music and education. I also hope to teach music because I want future students to understand that music is not only about technical ability or performance, but also about empathy, connection, and service. Ultimately, music has been impactful to my life because it gave me both passion and purpose. It helped me discover how creativity can bring people together and improve lives in meaningful ways. Through music, I found a way to express myself while also helping others, and that combination continues to inspire the direction I want my life and career to take.

Collaboration in music means far more to me than simply working alongside other people to complete a performance or project. At its core, collaboration is about trust, communication, and the ability to combine different perspectives and strengths to create something meaningful together. Music is one of the most collaborative forms of expression because no performance, ensemble, or creative project succeeds through individual talent alone. The strongest musical experiences often come from the relationships built during the process of creating, rehearsing, and growing together. My understanding of collaboration was shaped most significantly through founding MusicAAA, a global nonprofit organization that helps children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. Building the organization required constant collaboration between student musicians, volunteers, families, educators, and community partners. Every program depended on people with different experiences and skills learning how to communicate effectively and work toward a shared goal. One of the most inspiring parts of these experiences was watching musicians adapt to the individual needs of each child. Some children responded best to rhythm exercises, while others connected more through singing or interactive musical games. Volunteers often worked together to create supportive environments where children felt comfortable expressing themselves. These moments showed me that collaboration is not just about dividing responsibilities, but about listening carefully to others, remaining flexible, and understanding how different people contribute in unique ways. Through MusicAAA, I also learned that collaboration creates opportunities for growth that would be impossible alone. Many student volunteers entered the program focused mainly on performance or technical skill, but through working together with children and families, they developed leadership, empathy, patience, and communication skills. I experienced this growth personally as well. Coordinating programs, organizing volunteers, and building partnerships with organizations taught me how important collaboration is in turning ideas into meaningful action. My experiences volunteering with organizations such as MusicMDs and Carnegie Hall also reinforced the importance of collaboration in the arts. In musical settings, every performer contributes something different, and successful performances depend on people learning how to support one another rather than compete for attention. Whether rehearsing in an ensemble, planning community events, or leading nonprofit programs, I found that the most rewarding experiences came from the sense of connection developed during the process itself. As a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University, collaboration continues to shape both my education and future goals. In the future, I hope to continue combining music, education, and nonprofit work to make music more accessible to underserved communities. None of these goals can be achieved individually. Creating lasting impact requires musicians, educators, therapists, volunteers, and community members working together with a shared sense of purpose. Ultimately, collaboration in my field means building relationships that allow people to inspire and strengthen one another through creativity and service. Music has taught me that meaningful work is rarely accomplished alone, and the relationships formed through collaboration are often just as impactful as the final performance or project itself.

Music has been a central part of my life for many years and has shaped both my personal growth and future goals. Through studying, performing, and working with others through music, I developed not only technical skills, but also a deeper understanding of how music can positively impact individuals and communities. Over time, my passion for music evolved from a personal interest into something connected to leadership, service, and education. One of the most meaningful experiences in my music background has been creating MusicAAA, a global nonprofit organization that helps children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. Through this organization, student musicians volunteer to work with children using rhythm activities, collaborative exercises, and musical engagement designed to encourage confidence, communication, and emotional expression. Working directly with these children changed my understanding of music because I saw firsthand how music could help people connect and express themselves in ways that traditional communication sometimes could not. Building MusicAAA also gave me valuable leadership experience. I learned how to organize volunteers, communicate with families, coordinate programs, and expand outreach efforts to support more communities. The organization has received support from companies such as Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading, and it was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. While these accomplishments are meaningful to me, the most rewarding part has always been seeing the positive effect music can have on children and families. As a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University, music has remained closely connected to my educational journey. Studying music taught me discipline, patience, and perseverance because improvement requires consistent practice and long-term dedication. Performing also helped me become more confident and expressive, skills that have helped me academically and personally. After completing my degree, I hope to continue expanding MusicAAA while pursuing a career connected to music education and community outreach. My long-term goal is to help make music more accessible to underserved communities and continue using music as a tool for emotional support and personal development. I also hope to teach music in the future because I want to encourage students to see music not only as an art form, but also as something capable of creating meaningful social impact. Ultimately, I want my future career to combine music, education, and service. Music has already changed my life by giving me purpose and direction, and I hope to continue using it to positively impact the lives of others for many years to come.

Music has been one of the most influential forces in my life because it shaped both my personal growth and my long-term goals. What began as a passion for performance gradually became something much larger: a way to connect with people, serve my community, and understand the impact creativity can have on others. Through music, I discovered not only an artistic interest, but also a sense of purpose that continues to guide my educational journey today. My passion for music comes from the way it allows people to communicate emotions and experiences that are difficult to express through words alone. Music creates connections between people regardless of background, language, or circumstance. As I spent more time studying and performing music, I became fascinated by how deeply it could affect mood, confidence, and emotional well-being. Over time, I realized that music could serve not only as entertainment, but also as a tool for education, therapy, and community building. This realization eventually inspired me to create MusicAAA, a global nonprofit organization that helps children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. Through MusicAAA, student musicians volunteer to work with children using rhythm exercises, musical games, and collaborative activities designed to improve communication, confidence, and emotional expression. Building this organization completely changed my understanding of what music could accomplish. I saw children who initially struggled with social interaction gradually become more engaged and expressive through music. Those experiences reinforced my belief that music has the power to positively impact lives in meaningful ways. Music has also been instrumental in shaping my educational journey. As a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University, I have learned to approach music not only as a creative discipline, but also as an area that intersects with psychology, education, leadership, and service. Music taught me discipline and perseverance because improvement requires patience and consistent effort over time. Practicing and performing also strengthened my confidence and ability to communicate under pressure, skills that have benefited me academically and personally. In addition, my work through MusicAAA helped me develop leadership and organizational skills that continue to shape my education. Running a nonprofit organization required me to coordinate volunteers, communicate with families, organize programs, and build partnerships with organizations that supported our mission. The organization has received support from companies such as Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading, and it was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. While those achievements are meaningful, the most valuable part of the experience has been seeing how music can help children feel understood, confident, and connected to others. My future goals center around continuing to combine music, education, and community service. I hope to pursue both undergraduate and graduate studies related to music while expanding MusicAAA so more children from underserved communities can access music therapy and music education programs. I also hope to teach music in the future because I want to encourage students to see music not only as a technical skill, but also as a meaningful way to connect with and help others. Ultimately, music has shaped the person I am today. It taught me empathy, resilience, creativity, and leadership. More importantly, it showed me that music can create positive change far beyond the stage or classroom. In the future, I hope to continue using music to support communities, inspire others, and make the arts more accessible to people who may benefit from them the most.

Music has changed my life by giving me a sense of purpose, confidence, and direction that extends far beyond performance itself. What started as a personal passion eventually became the foundation for my community service, leadership experiences, and future goals. Through music, I discovered not only a creative outlet, but also a way to positively impact other people’s lives. Growing up, music taught me discipline and perseverance. Unlike many activities where improvement can happen quickly, music requires patience and long-term commitment. Spending hours practicing helped me develop consistency and resilience, qualities that later influenced my academic life as a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University. Music also helped me gain confidence. Performing in front of others pushed me outside my comfort zone and taught me how to express emotion and connect with people through performance. As I became more involved in music, I realized that its impact could go far beyond entertainment. I saw how music could comfort people, build community, and help individuals express emotions that are difficult to communicate through words alone. This realization inspired me to create MusicAAA, a global nonprofit organization that helps children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. Through MusicAAA, I have worked with children who initially struggled with communication, focus, or social interaction. Watching them become more engaged and expressive through rhythm, singing, and musical activities completely changed my understanding of what music could accomplish. In many cases, music became one of the first ways these children felt comfortable connecting with others. Those experiences showed me that music can be a powerful tool for emotional support, education, and human connection. Building MusicAAA also changed my life because it taught me leadership and responsibility. Running a nonprofit required me to organize volunteers, communicate with families, and coordinate programs with people from many different backgrounds. The organization has received support from companies such as Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading, and it was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. While those recognitions are meaningful, the most rewarding part has always been seeing the positive impact music can have on children and families. Music has also shaped my future goals. I hope to continue studying and working in music while expanding MusicAAA so more underserved communities can access music education and therapy programs. I want to help change the perception that music is only a hobby or extracurricular activity. My experiences have shown me that music can improve confidence, communication, and emotional well-being in ways that are deeply meaningful. Most importantly, music changed my life by helping me understand the kind of person I want to become. It taught me empathy, patience, and the importance of using my abilities to help others. Music gave me not only a passion, but also a purpose, and I hope to continue using it throughout my life to positively impact my community and the people around me.

Music has shaped nearly every part of my life. What began as a personal passion eventually became a way for me to connect with others, serve my community, and discover the kind of impact I want to make in the world. As a Presidential Honors Scholar at New York University, I have continued developing both my academic and musical goals, but more importantly, I have learned that music has the power to help people in ways that extend far beyond performance. Through my experiences, I hope to continue using music to support underserved communities and create opportunities for others to experience its benefits. One of the most important experiences in my life was creating MusicAAA, a global nonprofit organization that helps children with autism and ADHD through music therapy and music-based programs. I founded the organization after seeing how music could help children communicate, focus, and express emotions more comfortably. Many children who struggle socially or academically are still able to connect deeply with rhythm, melody, and musical expression. Through MusicAAA, student musicians from diverse backgrounds volunteer to lead sessions and mentor children using music activities designed to encourage confidence, communication, and creativity. Building this organization taught me that music is much more than entertainment. Music can build community, improve emotional well-being, and create meaningful human connections. I have watched children become more engaged and expressive through simple musical interactions, and those moments reinforced my desire to continue working in the field of music long-term. MusicAAA has received support from organizations such as Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading, and the organization was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. While those recognitions are meaningful, the experiences that matter most to me are the individual children and families whose lives were positively impacted through music. My long-term goal is to continue expanding MusicAAA while pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies in music. I hope to eventually teach music at the university level while continuing nonprofit work focused on music therapy and education. I want to help reshape the way people think about music by showing that it is not only an artistic discipline, but also a powerful tool for education, therapy, and community building. Too often, students abandon music as they grow older because they feel pressure to pursue more “practical” paths. I want to help create a world where music is seen as something valuable not only culturally, but socially and emotionally as well. Giving back to my community has always been central to my goals. Beyond MusicAAA, I have volunteered with organizations such as MusicMDs and Carnegie Hall, experiences that strengthened my understanding of how music can bring people together across different backgrounds and experiences. These opportunities taught me leadership, empathy, and communication skills that continue to influence both my education and future plans. William “Billy” Smith’s passion for music and his importance within his community strongly resonate with me. His story reflects the idea that music is not only about personal achievement, but also about the connections and inspiration a musician brings to others. Receiving this scholarship would help me continue pursuing my goals while honoring Billy’s legacy by continuing to use music as a force for positive change.

The music landscape today is more dynamic and diverse than at any other point in history. Technology has made access to music nearly universal—songs can be produced in bedrooms, shared instantly online, and discovered by audiences across the globe. Genres blend freely, barriers between “popular” and “independent” music blur, and artists now have more power to create, distribute, and connect with fans than ever before. Yet despite this innovation and abundance, music is not equally accessible for everyone. For many, especially those in underrepresented or neurodiverse communities, music education and meaningful participation in the arts remain out of reach. This paradox—the vast availability of music contrasted with unequal access to its benefits—is where I see both the challenge and the opportunity. While streaming platforms and AI-assisted tools are reshaping the industry, there is still a need for leaders who focus on inclusion, human connection, and the therapeutic power of music. I believe that my passion and work in this space positions me to make a meaningful difference. My nonprofit, MusicAAA, was born out of the desire to bring music to those who are too often left out of the conversation. We provide music-based sessions for autistic and neurodiverse children, pairing them with trained student musicians who help them explore instruments, build confidence, and experience joy. Through this work, I’ve seen the side of music that streaming charts and social media trends can’t capture: its ability to unlock communication, regulate emotions, and build community. Our organization has grown globally and was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, demonstrating that inclusion in music is not just a noble idea but a movement with real impact. In the current landscape, where technology often dominates the conversation, I see my role as ensuring that human stories and connections remain at the center. While I embrace tools like digital production and online collaboration, I believe music’s deepest value lies in its ability to touch lives personally. My goal is to bridge the innovative future of music with its timeless role as a unifier. I want to make sure that as the industry evolves, we don’t lose sight of the people and communities who rely on music not for fame or recognition, but for expression, healing, and hope. Looking forward, I plan to pursue degrees in music and education, deepening my understanding of both the art and its pedagogy. I envision expanding MusicAAA into more schools, therapy centers, and community organizations, using entrepreneurial strategies to ensure sustainability and growth. I also hope to contribute research into inclusive music practices, developing evidence-based approaches that educators and therapists around the world can use. By blending scholarship, service, and entrepreneurship, I aim to make the music world more inclusive, one program and one performance at a time. Ultimately, I view the current music landscape as an open canvas—vibrant, fast-changing, and full of possibility. It reflects the best of human creativity but also highlights inequities that must be addressed. My role is to be both an artist and an advocate: to create music, but also to create opportunities. I want to ensure that music’s future is not just more innovative, but also more inclusive. Music will always evolve, but its essence will remain the same: it connects people. My mission is to keep that truth alive and to use my voice, my education, and my nonprofit to make sure every child, every community, and every listener has the chance to be part of that connection.

My background has always been a source of both challenge and strength. Growing up, my family had to be careful with every resource, which meant I learned early on how to be resourceful, disciplined, and grateful for every opportunity. At times, I had to push past obstacles others didn’t face—whether it was financial barriers or the unique challenges of living with ADHD. Yet those circumstances shaped me into someone who is resilient, compassionate, and determined to build a future defined not by limitations, but by possibilities. From the very beginning, music has been my passion. While I couldn’t always afford formal lessons or access every opportunity, I discovered ways to learn through persistence. Music became more than just a personal outlet—it became a language through which I connected with others. Over time, I realized it had the power to do more than entertain; it could heal, communicate, and bring people together in ways that words sometimes cannot. That realization inspired one of the most important experiences of my life: founding MusicAAA, a nonprofit that provides music-based sessions for autistic and neurodiverse children. What started as a single idea has grown into an international initiative that trains student musicians from diverse backgrounds to work with children often left out of traditional programs. Through MusicAAA, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of music—watching nonverbal children hum melodies, shy participants lead rhythm games, and parents beam with joy at their child’s progress. The organization has even been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, but its greatest impact lies in the communities it has built and the lives it has touched. My journey with MusicAAA has also shaped my values. I’ve learned the importance of empathy and inclusion, recognizing that every child deserves to feel seen and supported. I’ve learned perseverance through building a nonprofit from the ground up—securing donations, forming partnerships, and managing programs. Most of all, I’ve learned that leadership is not about doing everything yourself, but about empowering others to contribute their strengths. These experiences have not only confirmed my love for music, but also sparked an entrepreneurial drive to create sustainable, impactful projects. Looking forward, my aspiration is to pursue degrees in music and education, eventually becoming a professor who continues expanding access to inclusive arts programs. I want to deepen my research into the relationship between music and neurodiverse learning, while training others to carry this mission forward. At the same time, I plan to expand MusicAAA’s reach, scaling it to serve more families, particularly in underserved communities where resources for children with special needs are scarce. The experiences that shaped me—growing up in a family that taught me resilience, living with ADHD, discovering music as my voice, and building a nonprofit from scratch—have given me a clear direction. My life is guided by service, creativity, and a drive to transform challenges into opportunities. I want my future to reflect those values: to make education and the arts more inclusive, to empower students of all backgrounds, and to leave a legacy of compassion and impact. Today, when I think about who I am, I see someone still learning and growing—but also someone determined to use every lesson, every obstacle, and every passion to build a better world for others. That is my story, and that is the journey I will continue as I pursue my education and my dreams.

Growing up in a low-income family has shaped every part of who I am—my work ethic, my sense of gratitude, my long-term goals, and my desire to use my life to uplift others. It didn’t always feel like a strength. As a child, I often wondered why things that seemed simple for others—school supplies, extracurriculars, even consistent access to healthcare—felt like luxuries in my world. But over time, I came to understand that my upbringing gave me more than material limitations. It gave me perspective, purpose, and a deep appreciation for every opportunity I earn. From an early age, I learned to be resourceful. I saw my family stretch every dollar, find creative solutions, and prioritize what mattered most—education, resilience, and compassion. I watched my parents work hard, sometimes juggling multiple jobs, not because they expected a reward, but because they wanted me to have a better future. That example taught me that effort matters. It also taught me that success is not just about talent or intelligence—it’s about persistence, humility, and knowing how to keep going when things aren’t easy. Because money was tight, I couldn’t always afford music lessons or formal extracurriculars growing up. So I found my own way. I taught myself instruments using library books and online videos. I practiced wherever I could—sometimes using makeshift equipment or donated supplies. My passion for music only grew stronger, not because it was convenient, but because it gave me a sense of voice and freedom that my financial circumstances couldn’t touch. As I got older, I saw that I wasn’t alone in facing barriers. I met other students who were talented, curious, and hardworking, but who struggled because of limited access to resources or support. That’s what inspired me to create MusicAAA, a nonprofit that provides music-based sessions for autistic and neurodiverse children—especially those from underserved communities. Our organization has since grown globally and was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, but its heart remains the same: making music, expression, and connection accessible to those who are too often left out. My background continues to fuel my mission. I know what it’s like to feel like opportunity is just out of reach. That’s why I work to create it for others. I mentor younger students, train volunteers, and organize community events. I advocate for inclusive education because I know how much it matters to feel seen and supported. My experiences have made me determined to be the kind of leader and educator I needed when I was younger. Growing up in a low-income family also shaped my academic motivation. I’ve maintained a strong GPA not because it came easily, but because I know education is one of the most powerful tools I have to change my circumstances—and to help others do the same. I plan to pursue a degree in music and education, with the goal of becoming a professor and expanding access to inclusive arts programs. I want to research new methods of music therapy and advocate for policies that prioritize equity in education and the arts. Though my path hasn’t always been easy, I wouldn’t trade it. My background gave me empathy, grit, and vision. It taught me to value people over things, to celebrate small victories, and to keep moving forward even when the odds seem stacked against me. And it gave me a mission: to use everything I’ve learned—and everything I’ve earned—to make the world more inclusive, compassionate, and full of possibility for others.

Like Kalia D. Davis, I strive to embody excellence—not only in academics, but in my relationships, my leadership, and my contributions to the community. From a young age, I’ve understood that opportunities are earned through perseverance and integrity. Living with ADHD, I’ve learned to navigate challenges by being resourceful, disciplined, and resilient. This mindset has helped me achieve academic success, maintain a GPA above 3.0, and develop a work ethic that motivates me to push beyond what’s expected. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in my service to others, I bring my best effort every time. Sports have been a cornerstone of my growth and character. Running cross country taught me the value of endurance—both physical and mental. Every mile demanded focus and determination, and each finish line reminded me that progress comes step by step. Being part of a team also showed me the power of encouragement, how a kind word or shared goal can strengthen everyone. Athletics instilled in me a belief that no matter how tough the race, you keep moving forward—and that lesson continues to guide me in all areas of my life. Community service is another part of who I am. As the founder of MusicAAA, a nonprofit that provides music-based sessions for autistic and neurodiverse children, I’ve seen how much one person can impact others. MusicAAA has grown into a global network of student volunteers and families, earning a Nobel Peace Prize nomination for its work in creating inclusive spaces for children to thrive. Leading this initiative has taught me empathy, teamwork, and the joy of giving others a reason to smile. Seeing a child light up as they play an instrument for the first time reminds me why I serve—to make someone’s world a little brighter. I also work to create welcoming environments in smaller, everyday ways—mentoring peers, volunteering in my community, and always trying to bring encouragement and laughter to those around me. Like Kalia, I believe kindness is just as important as achievement, and I hope to leave every place I go better than I found it. Receiving this scholarship would mean more than financial relief—it would be an affirmation of the values I hold dear. It would help me continue pursuing my degree in music education while growing MusicAAA to reach more families who need it. It would allow me to focus more fully on my studies and service, while honoring the legacy of someone who, like me, believed in living with ambition, drive, and compassion. Kalia’s story is inspiring because she chose to live fully, to work hard, and to lift others as she climbed. I aim to do the same. Through my education, my nonprofit, and my everyday actions, I hope to carry forward her spirit of excellence, kindness, and determination—living, loving, laughing, learning, and leaving a legacy of my own. Thank you for considering my application and for honoring Kalia’s incredible life by supporting students who share her values.

Living with ADHD has profoundly shaped how I see the world and how I want to change it. Being part of the disabled community has taught me to value difference, to approach others with empathy, and to embrace creativity as a strength. It has also motivated me to build spaces where everyone feels understood and included—because I know what it feels like not to. Growing up, I often struggled to keep up in traditional academic settings. Staying organized, focusing on tasks, and meeting rigid expectations felt exhausting and discouraging. I internalized my struggles, thinking they meant I wasn’t good enough. Being diagnosed with ADHD helped me see my challenges in a new light. It gave me words to describe my experience and showed me that disability doesn’t mean inability. It just means approaching things differently—and sometimes, seeing possibilities others overlook. Connecting with others in the disabled community reinforced this perspective. I realized I wasn’t alone in navigating a world not designed for me. I also began to see how much resilience and creativity disability fosters. ADHD has given me the ability to think outside the box, notice connections others miss, and bring energy and focus to the things I care most about. This mindset led me to create MusicAAA, a nonprofit that provides music-based sessions for autistic and neurodiverse children. Many of these children experience the same feelings of exclusion and misunderstanding I once did. Through MusicAAA, we train student volunteers to lead individualized music sessions that help children communicate, regulate emotions, and build confidence. Our work has grown globally, connecting hundreds of families and volunteers, and was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. But the most meaningful moments are the small ones—when a child lights up as they play their first melody, or a parent tells me their child has found joy again. Being part of the disabled community has shaped how I lead and how I serve. I’ve learned to listen more deeply, to center others’ needs, and to create environments where difference is celebrated, not erased. In my future, I plan to continue advocating for accessibility and inclusion through education and music. My goal is to pursue graduate study, become a professor, and develop programs that make music education more inclusive for neurodiverse learners and underserved communities. My ADHD has given me a unique perspective—one I will carry into every future endeavor. I see the world not just as it is, but as it could be—and I’m determined to help make it better.

In music, collaboration is more than just a tool—it is the essence of creation. Every composition, every performance, and every moment of rehearsal is built on shared effort and understanding. To me, collaboration means co-creating with purpose: bringing together people from different backgrounds and skill levels to produce something meaningful, whether that's a musical piece, an event, or a transformative experience for others. It's about listening as much as leading, making space for diverse voices, and valuing the human connection that fuels artistic work. This belief has guided my work as the founder of MusicAAA, a nonprofit that uses music to support children with autism and ADHD. The organization brings together student musicians from across the globe to lead music-based sessions tailored to the needs of neurodiverse children. These sessions are not one-sided. The children, the volunteers, the parents, and the program directors all contribute to the structure and rhythm of our work. As we create music together, we’re also building trust, empathy, and community. One of the most powerful collaborative experiences I’ve had was developing training modules for our student leaders. I worked with music therapists, educators, and neurodiverse individuals to ensure our curriculum was inclusive, informed, and compassionate. Everyone brought unique insights to the table: therapists shared therapeutic strategies; musicians offered creative adaptations; and parents of autistic children spoke openly about their lived experiences. The result was a training program that not only prepared volunteers to work effectively, but also helped them grow as artists and human beings. Another memorable collaboration was organizing an international benefit concert. It involved student performers from different countries, each submitting their own recorded performance. Merging classical pieces, jazz improvisations, and original compositions into a cohesive concert taught me the logistical and emotional strength required for true teamwork. Despite challenges like time zone differences, varying levels of access to technology, and language barriers, the final performance was a symbol of unity—proof that collaboration, when fueled by passion and purpose, can transcend distance and difference. These experiences have shaped how I view my future in the arts. Whether I pursue music therapy, education, or composition, collaboration will always be central to my work. I believe that the most impactful art is born not from isolation, but from the willingness to share ideas, adapt, and grow together. As I continue my journey in music, I hope to foster spaces where creative voices feel heard, valued, and inspired—because collaboration isn’t just about making music. It’s about making meaning.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

My “why” is rooted in one word: connection. From the time I first picked up an instrument, I felt that music—and the arts more broadly—gave me a language to express what I couldn’t always say aloud. That sense of expression through sound, image, and narrative became more than just a passion; it became a mission. Over time, my artistic path has expanded beyond music into storytelling, world-building, and character-driven work, all with one unifying goal: to give people a way to connect, to feel seen, and to imagine themselves in new and empowering ways. What motivates me to continue in the arts today is the belief that storytelling still matters—even more so in a world increasingly saturated with fast content, digital automation, and AI-generated ideas. In a time when creative tools are evolving at lightning speed, I don’t feel threatened by AI or digital technology—I feel challenged to push myself to tell stories that can’t be faked. Real emotion, complex humanity, and lived experience still have irreplaceable value. No algorithm can replicate a story drawn from the heart, rooted in culture, pain, joy, or personal transformation. One of my biggest long-term goals is to create a multi-part animated television series or graphic novel exploring themes of neurodiversity, music, and memory—told through the lens of a character who sees sound and rhythm as language. The protagonist would be a teenage composer navigating a futuristic world where emotions are regulated and creativity is suppressed. They discover a lost archive of music that reveals hidden memories, sparking a rebellion centered on reclaiming individuality and sensory experience. This story, blending dystopian science fiction with musical theory and emotional depth, is a way for me to fuse my passions for music, psychology, and inclusive storytelling. This is more than a concept—it’s a project I’ve already begun developing through sketches, notes, and music demos. I envision it as a multimedia endeavor that combines hand-drawn animation with interactive digital elements. I’m especially excited about designing a visual system where sounds are represented through colors and movement, inspired by the experiences of those with synesthesia and auditory processing differences. In this way, the show wouldn’t just represent difference—it would invite viewers to feel it for themselves. As a student of the arts, I plan to refine this vision through further study of composition, narrative structure, and digital design. I’m eager to collaborate with animators, illustrators, and writers who share my belief that art can be both boundary-breaking and deeply personal. While I appreciate and use digital tools like AI to experiment and refine ideas, I view them as companions, not replacements. The core of my work will always be human-led, heart-driven creation. What continues to drive me is the idea that one project—one story—can change how someone sees themselves. Just as I once felt seen through the arts, I want to offer that feeling to someone else. Whether it's a child who thinks differently, a teen who’s never seen themselves in a main character, or an adult remembering the power of imagination, I want my work to spark something lasting. Art today can reach more people than ever before. That means our responsibility to say something meaningful with it has never been greater. My “why” is to bring stories into the world that are inclusive, intimate, and unforgettable. And with each new note, frame, or line of dialogue, I hope to continue making art that moves—not just visually, but emotionally and culturally.

My passion for education and the arts has guided every step of my personal, academic, and service journey. Music, in particular, has been my anchor—an outlet for creativity, a tool for communication, and a bridge between communities. It taught me that education is not confined to classrooms and textbooks; it can be melodic, expressive, and deeply human. Through music, I’ve learned to listen with compassion, teach with purpose, and serve with intention. This passion led me to create MusicAAA, a nonprofit organization that brings music-based sessions to children with autism and ADHD. What began as a small idea has since evolved into a global initiative involving hundreds of student musicians, all united by the belief that music can transform lives. Children in our program are empowered to explore instruments, engage socially, and build confidence—while student leaders gain experience in empathy, teaching, and leadership. MusicAAA has been recognized nationally and even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, but its real value lies in the community it has created—where ability, background, and circumstance are never barriers to belonging. My experiences have shown me how the arts can be a powerful form of education—especially for individuals often left out of traditional systems. This is why I’ve chosen to pursue a degree in music. My goal is to build a career that bridges arts education and community service, focusing on creating inclusive spaces for neurodiverse learners and underserved youth. I want to continue my academic journey through graduate study, combining research with fieldwork to develop effective, evidence-based strategies for inclusive music education. With this degree, I plan to expand MusicAAA into more communities, design curricula tailored to diverse learning needs, and ultimately become a professor of music. Teaching at the university level will allow me to train the next generation of educators, therapists, and musicians—equipping them with the tools and mindset to carry this mission forward. My vision is not just to make music more accessible, but to reimagine education as a collaborative, creative process rooted in understanding and equity. This scholarship would allow me to continue pursuing these goals without interruption, easing the financial strain of higher education and enabling me to devote more time to both my studies and community-based work. It would be an investment not only in my academic development, but in the children, families, and educators I aim to serve. My passion for the arts is not about performance; it’s about purpose. Education is most powerful when it reflects and uplifts the communities it serves. Through my degree, I hope to be part of shaping that kind of future—one where every child, regardless of ability, is given the tools to thrive, and where music continues to be a source of connection, healing, and joy.

Arts education has been the most transformative part of my life. From a young age, music became more than a passion—it became a way to understand the world and my place within it. While others found clarity in numbers or sports, I found mine in harmonies, rhythms, and melodies. Music gave me the tools to express myself authentically, especially when words fell short. As I grew older, my engagement with the arts deepened. It wasn’t just about technique or performance anymore—it was about connection. I began to see music not only as personal expression but as a powerful means of helping others. This realization eventually led me to create MusicAAA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children with autism and ADHD through student-led music sessions. I had witnessed firsthand how music could calm, engage, and empower neurodiverse children, especially when tailored with care and empathy. MusicAAA quickly became a collaborative space where student musicians could give back, and where children could thrive through sound. It was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, a recognition that affirmed the impact arts education can have beyond the classroom. One person who played a major role in my musical journey was my first music teacher. She wasn’t just a mentor; she was a believer. When I hesitated to pursue music more seriously, unsure of where it could lead, she reminded me that the arts aren’t a backup plan—they are a legitimate, necessary path. She encouraged me to dig deeper into my craft, to treat it not just as a skill but as a purpose. Her belief in my potential helped me see the broader role I could play: not just as a performer, but as an educator, organizer, and advocate. Arts education taught me how to lead with empathy, listen deeply, and create opportunities for others. Through organizing community music sessions, fundraising for instruments, and training student volunteers, I learned what it meant to combine creativity with responsibility. These are lessons I carry into every aspect of my academic and service journey. Looking forward, I plan to continue studying music at the undergraduate and graduate level, eventually becoming a professor and expanding the work I started with MusicAAA. I want to develop new methods for inclusive music education and reach communities where arts access is limited. The arts have already changed my life—but more importantly, they’ve given me the ability to change the lives of others.

Growing up in a Filipino American household, I was raised with values that emphasized family, respect, resilience, and “bayanihan”—the spirit of communal unity and support. These values have profoundly shaped how I approach my education, my community involvement, and my broader vision for the world. From an early age, I saw how hard my family worked—not only for themselves but for others around them. Whether it was sending support back home to relatives in the Philippines, volunteering in local events, or welcoming neighbors with warmth and generosity, I was taught that we rise by lifting others. That principle of collective progress stayed with me as I began exploring how to use my own talents to give back meaningfully. As someone deeply passionate about music and community service, I founded MusicAAA, a nonprofit that uses music therapy to support children with autism and ADHD—especially those from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds. The foundation of this work is rooted in my cultural understanding of care and inclusivity. Filipino culture often treats the community as an extension of family, and I’ve carried that belief into every part of this project. The success of MusicAAA—now a global initiative with hundreds of volunteers and a Nobel Peace Prize nomination—was made possible not just through my leadership but through the collaborative, interdependent spirit that my Filipino upbringing taught me to honor. At the same time, being Filipino American has also helped me navigate adversity with quiet strength. In the face of limited resources or overwhelming odds, I’ve learned to persist, adapt, and problem-solve creatively. My family always prioritized education, even when doing so required careful budgeting and personal sacrifice. That environment taught me not to take opportunities for granted and to pursue my goals with gratitude and humility. Receiving this scholarship would ease the burden of rising educational costs, allowing me to focus more fully on deepening my academic work and expanding my nonprofit’s reach. I plan to continue my education in music and community development, with the goal of one day becoming a professor and advocate for inclusive music education. With the support of this scholarship, I could further my research into music’s impact on neurodiverse learners and scale MusicAAA’s impact across more communities—especially those that, like my own, are often overlooked. In many ways, my journey is inseparable from the traditions, sacrifices, and generosity that define the Filipino experience. I carry these values with me not only as cultural heritage, but as living practices that shape how I lead, learn, and serve. With your support, I hope to honor my community by creating pathways for others to be seen, heard, and celebrated—through the healing power of music and the enduring legacy of compassion.

Observing a therapy session, I noticed how children with autism spectrum disorder behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announcing the end of their sessions. Because they love music and benefit from it, the children reacted negatively to the end of their treatment. I had an idea: what if I could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit. I trained advanced student musicians from various groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted with their children’s improved attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing a diversity of cultures and ability. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute. Despite certain setbacks, I persist in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community.

Growing up, music was more than a hobby; it was my sanctuary and my voice. I discovered its profound ability to connect people, heal emotions, and inspire change. Over time, I realized that this personal refuge could serve a broader purpose—helping individuals, especially those with disabilities, express themselves and find joy. This realization became the foundation for my academic journey, nonprofit work, and vision for the future. I founded MusicAAA, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, to bring music therapy to autistic children worldwide. MusicAAA provides free, early music therapy sessions tailored to each child’s needs, improving their communication, attention, and social interaction. Supported by a global network of student volunteers, the program has reached hundreds of families and earned recognition from sponsors, media outlets, and community leaders. Seeing the transformation in children and the gratitude of their families has been my greatest reward. Leading MusicAAA has been a life-changing experience. It taught me diplomacy by connecting families from diverse backgrounds and building partnerships with sponsors and autism centers. It honed my leadership skills as I managed volunteers and programs across the globe. Most importantly, it deepened my empathy, allowing me to better understand the challenges faced by children with disabilities and their families. In addition to MusicAAA, I led MusicMDs, an outreach organization that brings music to hospitals to promote patient healing. I coordinated volunteer musicians, optimized schedules, and performed at Carnegie Hall to raise funds for music therapy and autism awareness. These experiences solidified my belief in music’s ability to heal and unite people. Academically, I am pursuing a degree in music with plans to continue my studies at the graduate level. My goal is to deepen my understanding of music therapy and use it to create innovative programs. I aspire to become a professor of music, sharing my knowledge and inspiring future educators and musicians to use music as a tool for social change. I also plan to expand MusicAAA by partnering with universities and healthcare institutions to reach more families. This scholarship would play a crucial role in helping me achieve these goals. By supporting my education, it would allow me to focus on developing impactful music therapy programs and continuing to grow MusicAAA. I believe that my passion, combined with my proven commitment to making a positive impact, makes me an ideal candidate. MusicAAA does more than provide therapy; it fosters empathy and understanding. Volunteers and participants form a community that transcends cultural and socioeconomic boundaries. Through music, they learn lessons about listening, collaboration, and creativity—skills that can address larger societal challenges. In everything I do, my goal is to create opportunities for others to thrive. Whether through a single note on a piano or the collaborative efforts of a global nonprofit, I am driven by the belief that small actions can lead to profound change. With this scholarship, I can continue transforming that belief into reality, making a lasting impact on the world and the communities I serve.

Growing up as a Chinese immigrant in the United States, I often found myself navigating two distinct worlds. My family’s story is one of resilience, having started from scratch in a country where opportunities abound but are not always equally accessible. While we lacked material abundance, my parents instilled in me the value of hard work, education, and perseverance. My community further reinforced these lessons, providing encouragement despite the challenges we faced. The combination of familial support and communal resilience inspired me to pursue higher education as a means of creating a brighter future for myself and giving back to those who supported me along the way. The journey, however, has not been without obstacles. One of the greatest challenges I faced was learning to reconcile my personal aspirations with limited resources. I vividly remember struggling to balance academics, extracurricular commitments, and part-time jobs to support myself and my family. Yet, these experiences taught me invaluable lessons in time management, determination, and grit. Instead of being deterred, I embraced the challenges, using them as stepping stones toward my goals. From these experiences, I learned that success is not defined solely by outcomes but by the resilience and effort we demonstrate in pursuit of our dreams. One person who has profoundly inspired me on this journey is Emmanuel Korir. Known as a versatile and determined runner, Korir’s ability to excel in both 400m and 800m races is nothing short of remarkable. His work ethic and commitment to excellence resonate deeply with me. Inspired by Korir, I set my own ambitious goal of running a forty-eight-second 400m. To achieve it, I developed an independent training regimen that included intense sprint rotations, weightlifting, and a nutrition plan with supplements like creatine and beet powder. Pain and exhaustion were my constant companions, but I never wavered, training diligently through rain, heat, and cold. Although I fell short of my goal, the journey taught me the value of grit—waking up every day with purpose, regardless of the outcome. Korir’s dedication continues to inspire me, not only in athletics but in all aspects of my life. These experiences have shaped my aspirations for the future. After graduating, I plan to merge my passion for community service and education with my career goals. As a first-generation college student, I understand the transformative power of education and aim to advocate for equitable access to learning opportunities for underrepresented communities. Whether through nonprofit work, education policy, or leadership roles, my goal is to empower others to overcome their challenges, just as I have overcome mine. Ultimately, my background as a Chinese immigrant, the challenges I have faced, and the inspiration I’ve drawn from figures like Emmanuel Korir have taught me that resilience and purpose are the keys to growth. Higher education in the United States offers me the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to achieve my dreams, while also providing me the platform to uplift those around me. With every step I take, I carry the lessons of my journey and the unwavering belief that success lies not in perfection, but in perseverance.

As someone with ADHD, I have experienced firsthand the challenges that come with being neurodivergent. For years, I struggled to stay focused, manage time, and navigate a world not always designed for minds like mine. Yet, this experience profoundly shaped my beliefs, relationships, and aspirations, driving me to advocate for others and create spaces where neurodivergent individuals can thrive. Growing up, ADHD made me acutely aware of the importance of patience, empathy, and adaptability. While my energy and ideas often felt boundless, staying organized and following through required extraordinary effort. Over time, I learned to embrace my differences, seeing ADHD not as a limitation but as a unique perspective. This shift in mindset fueled my determination to create opportunities for others like me, especially those with autism and ADHD, whose experiences often intersect with similar challenges. This mission led me to create Music therapy. Observing a therapy session with children on the autism spectrum inspired the idea. I noticed how music profoundly impacted their behavior and communication, sparking a realization: music could be a bridge to connection and healing. With that vision, I launched MusicAAA, training advanced student musicians from diverse backgrounds to lead sessions tailored to the unique needs of children with autism and ADHD. These sessions included instruments like drums and pianos, allowing children to explore their creativity and build social and emotional skills. MusicAAA has grown into a global initiative, supported by grants from organizations like Costco and Peace First, and featured in publications such as Florida Today. The results have been transformative—not only for the children, whose attention and socialization have improved, but also for the student musicians who gained leadership skills and a deeper understanding of neurodiversity. Parents frequently share stories of their children becoming more communicative and confident, reinforcing the profound impact of the program. Leading MusicAAA has taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, empathy, and perseverance. My ADHD, which once felt like an obstacle, became a strength in this journey. It fueled my creativity as I brainstormed innovative approaches to therapy and helped me relate to the children and their families on a personal level. Diplomacy was crucial as I navigated cultural and socioeconomic differences among the musicians and children involved in the program. I also honed my organizational and problem-solving skills to manage finances, secure funding, and scale the nonprofit. These experiences have shaped my aspirations and deepened my commitment to advancing opportunities for neurodivergent individuals. My dream is to expand MusicAAA, reaching more children with autism and ADHD across the globe. I aim to pursue degrees in music and education, integrating academic knowledge into my nonprofit work to make programs more effective and inclusive. Long-term, I envision becoming a professor, where I can inspire others to embrace neurodiversity and carry forward the mission of MusicAAA. My journey with ADHD has been one of transformation. It has shaped my character, strengthened my relationships, and inspired my career aspirations. By turning my challenges into opportunities, I’ve learned to embrace my differences and use them to drive change. Through MusicAAA and beyond, I am committed to building a future where neurodivergent individuals are not only included but celebrated for the unique strengths they bring to the world. With the right support and determination, I believe we can create a more empathetic and inclusive society, one note at a time.

From an early age, I found a sense of peace, curiosity, and belonging through music. While other children spent time chasing after typical childhood pastimes, I was captivated by the gentle hum of a violin, the resounding beat of a drum, and the transformative magic of a piano’s keys. These sounds became an escape from my challenges, a means of communication when words did not suffice. As I grew older, my fascination with music deepened into a conviction: I wanted to use my passion to improve the lives of those who are most vulnerable. Today, this conviction drives my every action. My dream solidified when I witnessed music therapy in action for children with autism. While volunteering at a local center, I was deeply moved by the joy I saw on the children’s faces as they interacted with instruments—some for the first time. Though their verbal skills varied, they came alive through music, showing an emotional depth and sense of connection that no textbook could fully capture. Observing a child who rarely spoke begin to hum along to a melody, or smile for the first time all day, underscored the potential of music to bridge gaps in communication and foster genuine moments of healing. I felt driven to do more. Drawing on my own experiences and passion, I founded MusicAAA, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides free early music therapy sessions for autistic children worldwide. Whether a child picks up a drum, xylophone, or trumpet, the program adapts to their unique needs, encouraging self-expression and building social skills. Soon, student musicians from all over the globe joined our cause. We developed partnerships with corporations, received recognition through media outlets, and continued expanding with the support of generous sponsors and health organizations. In connecting children of all backgrounds with these musical opportunities, I witnessed remarkable growth—not just in the children, but in the volunteers, too, who came away with a deeper understanding of empathy and compassion. The triumphs of MusicAAA illuminate my broader ambitions: I dream of becoming a professor of music who specializes in using music therapy to support children with disabilities. Studying music at both undergraduate and graduate levels will equip me with the scholarly depth and advanced skills to refine these therapeutic techniques. I envision a future where my academic research, combined with on-the-ground nonprofit experience, creates new approaches to ensuring music therapy is both accessible and widely acknowledged as a vital resource for children with special needs—particularly those who face financial and cultural barriers. My passion is fueled by the direct impact I see each time a child, parent, or volunteer shares their story with me. Hearing about a child’s improved communication skills or a newly discovered love of performance reaffirms my commitment to keep going despite obstacles. In my own life, perseverance in the face of limited resources has taught me that what may initially appear as a barrier can become the foundation of success when coupled with creativity, determination, and a caring community. This mindset is what propelled MusicAAA from a hopeful concept into a global network of compassionate musicians. In the future, I plan to continue leading MusicAAA while pursuing higher education so I can refine these transformative programs and inspire future generations of musicians, educators, and families. I truly believe that by nurturing our innate creativity, we can build a more inclusive and empathetic world. Music is my channel for achieving that vision—one note, one child, one dream at a time.

Music is often regarded as a universal language—capable of bridging cultural, social, and emotional divides. I have experienced its unifying power firsthand, observing how music can uplift, heal, and inspire people, particularly those who are differently abled. Through my nonprofit organization, I have committed myself to harnessing this power as a transformative tool for autistic youth around the world. My long-term vision is to ensure that every child, regardless of financial standing or geographic location, can access the profound benefits of music therapy and feel seen, heard, and valued. This commitment forms the basis of how I plan to make a positive impact on the world. My first step toward this goal was founding MusicAAA, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides early music therapy sessions to autistic children—completely free of charge. We collaborate with a global network of student musicians who share my passion for the arts and for empowering those with special needs. These trained volunteers facilitate sessions involving drums, xylophones, pianos, and other instruments, working closely with each child to adapt the therapeutic approach to their unique needs. Parents, music instructors, and autism experts have all reported marked improvements in the children’s communication, attention span, and social interaction. Beyond these individual success stories, MusicAAA has also won the International Peace First Challenge, garnered major sponsorships, and been recognized by local and regional media outlets. While such accolades are meaningful, what matters most to me is that we continue developing and refining a dynamic program that truly benefits the children it serves. Underpinning my strategy for global impact is the belief that innovation and collaboration go hand in hand. MusicAAA thrives because it enables passionate young musicians from diverse backgrounds to share their love of music with children who need it most. I have witnessed participants from drastically different cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds come together to create, perform, and celebrate music as a unified community. By fostering connections among people who might otherwise never interact, we are building empathic bridges that can last a lifetime. I plan to expand these collaborative frameworks by forging new partnerships with universities, healthcare facilities, and other nonprofits, so that our volunteer network can grow and the depth of our programming can deepen. Through a more robust, cross-sector approach, we can reach children in remote or underfunded communities, ensuring our services remain accessible and equitable. In parallel with this nonprofit work, I am pursuing an academic path in music at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. This education will allow me to gain the expertise needed to design even more effective therapeutic interventions and to share my insights with a future generation of music educators. Ultimately, my aspiration is to serve as a professor of music, using my academic and professional platforms to amplify the message that music can transform lives—particularly for those who have historically had limited opportunities due to disability or socioeconomic barriers. As I learn more about the science behind music therapy, I will integrate cutting-edge research into the programs I lead, ensuring that our methods are grounded in evidence-based best practices. While these goals may seem ambitious, I firmly believe that meaningful change starts with a resolute vision and a relentless pursuit of progress. By continually innovating, collaborating across disciplines, and championing the rights of children with disabilities, I aim to build an inclusive future guided by compassion and creativity. Through MusicAAA and my forthcoming contributions in academia, I plan not only to make a positive impact on individual lives, but also to catalyze a more accepting, empathetic global community—one where music serves as a universal bridge to understanding and healing.

Music has always been central to my life, offering structure, expression, and connection. Growing up with ADHD, I often relied on music as a way to focus my thoughts and channel my energy. Over time, my personal relationship with music evolved into a desire to use its transformative power to help others. This aspiration became the foundation of MusicAAA, a global nonprofit I created to support children with autism and ADHD through music therapy. My field of interest was shaped by a pivotal experience observing a music therapy session for children with autism. I noticed how the children’s reactions to the same stimulus—a therapist announcing the session’s end—varied dramatically. One child screamed, while another became aggressive. Both responses reflected how deeply music resonated with them and how it could help them cope with challenges. This inspired me to create a program that would harness music’s potential to improve attention, communication, and socialization skills for neurodiverse children. Through MusicAAA, I trained advanced student musicians from diverse socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic backgrounds to lead music therapy sessions. Children chose instruments like drums, xylophones, and pianos, engaging in a supportive environment where they could grow and connect. Parents were thrilled by the results, reporting improvements in their children’s behavior and focus. The program’s impact quickly gained recognition, with support from organizations such as Costco and Peace First, and features in publications like Florida Today and Newsbreak. While MusicAAA has created meaningful change for others, it has also transformed me. My work with the nonprofit has deepened my understanding of neurodiversity and the unique challenges faced by children with autism and ADHD. It has taught me the importance of empathy, inclusion, and collaboration in creating impactful programs. Leading MusicAAA has also developed my creativity, perseverance, and problem-solving skills, as I’ve worked to grow the organization while addressing challenges in funding, logistics, and curriculum design. These experiences have solidified my passion for pursuing a career at the intersection of music and neurodiversity. I am currently pursuing a degree in music, with plans to continue my education at the graduate level. My goal is to integrate the knowledge I gain into MusicAAA, expanding its reach to underserved communities and refining its methods to better serve neurodiverse children. Ultimately, I hope to become a professor of music, where I can inspire future generations to view neurodiversity as a strength and advocate for inclusion in their own fields. Teaching will allow me to pass on the mission of MusicAAA and ensure its legacy continues through others. I’ve chosen this path because I believe in the power of music to connect, heal, and transform lives. My personal experiences with ADHD and my work with MusicAAA have shown me that embracing diverse perspectives can lead to profound change. I hope to use my passion for music to create a more inclusive world, one where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Since its recognition as a condition in the 1940s, autism has revealed profound connections to music, offering a vital avenue for emotional expression and communication. Inspired by Michael Bakan’s *Speaking for Ourselves* and my own experiences, I founded MusicAAA, a global nonprofit using music therapy to support autistic children. The idea emerged during a therapy session I observed. Two children, reacting to the same stimulus—the announcement of their session’s end—expressed vastly different emotions. Their love for music was undeniable, sparking my determination to create a program that harnessed music’s power to heal. MusicAAA now trains student musicians from diverse backgrounds to lead sessions, providing children access to instruments like drums and pianos. Backed by grants from Costco and Peace First, our work has improved attention, behavior, and communication for countless children. My journey was not without challenges. Coming from a disadvantaged background, I faced financial and logistical hurdles. Yet, these obstacles shaped my resilience and determination, driving me to build professional networks, secure funding, and refine my vision. Through this experience, I developed critical skills—diplomacy, empathy, and creativity—that have defined my character and broadened my understanding of diverse perspectives. This scholarship would empower me to further expand MusicAAA and reach more children in need. As I pursue degrees in music, I aim to integrate my academic knowledge into my nonprofit, continually refining its programs. Ultimately, my dream is to become a professor of music, inspiring the next generation to join this mission. MusicAAA has taught me that music is a universal language, capable of bridging barriers and creating harmony in the lives of autistic children. With this support, I am committed to continuing this journey, ensuring music’s transformative power reaches those who need it most.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

Since the advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been observed and researched widely. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory and pitch recognition, and music-based therapies and interventions abound in autism research. Meanwhile, music historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Glenn Gould to “Blind T om” Wiggins. However, it is surprising how infrequently autistic people have been asked to account for how they produce and experience music or why it matters to them. In Speaking for Ourselves, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan does just that, engaging in deep conversations—some spanning the course of years—with ten fascinating and very unique individuals who share two basic commonalities: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life in which music plays a central role. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies and intersections of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, not from an autistic point of view but rather from several different autistic points of view, inviting readers to partake of a rich tapestry of words, ideas, images, and musical sounds that speak to both the diversity of autistic experience and the common humanity shared by all. I am fascinated by music’s connection with autistic people because of Bakan’s book and my personal experience. As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

Growing up in a family that taught the importance of hard work and perseverance, I learned early on how to navigate challenges. Though resources were sometimes limited, my family always supported my ambitions and encouraged me to make the most of my opportunities. These values shaped my personal and academic journey, pushing me to think about how I can use my skills and passions to make a positive impact on the world. I’ve always been fascinated by music and its connection to neurodiversity, particularly autism. After reading Michael Bakan’s "Speaking for Ourselves", which explores how autistic individuals experience music, I began to see how powerful music could be for people on the autism spectrum. This interest grew further when I observed music therapy sessions for autistic children. Watching how differently each child responded to music sparked an idea: what if I could help autistic children through music therapy? Motivated by this vision, I created MusicAAA, a global nonprofit that provides music therapy to autistic children from underrepresented backgrounds. MusicAAA has trained student musicians from diverse socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds to lead therapy sessions for children on the autism spectrum. Through this program, children have the chance to explore instruments like the drums, xylophones, piano, and trumpet. With support from organizations like Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading, we were able to donate instruments and sustain our growing program. The media attention MusicAAA received, along with a Nobel Peace Prize nomination, was humbling, but the most gratifying aspect was seeing how the children’s communication, behavior, and attention improved through music. Beyond the program’s external success, running MusicAAA has deeply influenced my personal growth. I developed crucial skills in diplomacy by fostering connections with heads of autism centers and facilitating cooperation between children and student musicians from diverse backgrounds. Empathy played a key role in my work as well—understanding the children’s unique needs and relating to them helped me create a supportive environment for their growth. Diligence and attention to detail were also essential in managing various responsibilities, from finances to coordinating therapy sessions. These experiences have profoundly shaped my educational and career aspirations. In college, I plan to pursue both undergraduate and graduate degrees in music, with the goal of applying the knowledge I gain to further expand MusicAAA. I want to continue using music as a tool to support autistic children and help underrepresented communities. Long-term, my dream is to become a professor of music, where I can not only teach but also inspire future generations of musicians to use their skills for social good. Ultimately, my work with MusicAAA and my passion for music therapy have shown me the transformative power of music in people’s lives. I aim to continue this work, expanding the program to reach even more children and communities, bringing harmony and joy into the lives of those who need it most.

Since autism was first diagnosed in the 1940s, the role of music in the lives of autistic individuals has been widely studied. Researchers have explored everything from musical savants to music-based therapies, and the results demonstrate the positive impact music can have. However, one area often overlooked is how autistic individuals experience music in their own words. Michael Bakan’s *Speaking for Ourselves* addresses this gap by engaging directly with autistic people about their relationship with music. This work, alongside my personal experiences, has profoundly influenced my desire to use music therapy to support autistic children. My passion for this field was sparked during a music therapy session where I observed how children with autism responded to the end of their session. Some were visibly upset, while others expressed frustration and aggression. I realized how central music was to these children’s emotional well-being and coping mechanisms. This insight inspired me to create MusicAAA, a global nonprofit focused on helping autistic children through music therapy. The program trains advanced student musicians from diverse backgrounds to lead music therapy sessions, providing autistic children with structure and support as they engage with instruments like drums, xylophones, and pianos. MusicAAA grew from a small idea into a large organization with hundreds of members. Thanks to supporters like Costco, Peace First, and media outlets such as *Florida Today*, I’ve been able to secure funding for instrument donations and expand the program’s reach. The results have been incredible—parents report improvements in their children’s communication, attention, and socialization. Each therapy session offers a creative outlet for the children, helping them express themselves through music. Running MusicAAA has been a transformative experience for me as well. I’ve learned diplomacy by connecting students and children from different cultures and abilities, ensuring that every participant feels included and supported. Empathy has also been a key trait in understanding and addressing the unique needs of both the children and the student musicians. Furthermore, diligence has driven the organization forward, helping me navigate challenges related to funding, logistics, and resource management. These experiences have shaped my academic and career goals. I plan to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees in music, using my studies to further develop MusicAAA and enhance the program’s impact. My ultimate goal is to become a professor of music, teaching future generations about the power of music therapy while continuing to advocate for autistic individuals. Along the way, I will continue expanding MusicAAA, ensuring that more autistic children can benefit from its programs. However, I am aware that the journey will not be without its challenges. Balancing the demands of running a growing nonprofit while pursuing my education will require careful time management and perseverance. Additionally, securing the resources to maintain and grow MusicAAA is an ongoing challenge, as funding and support must be continuously sought. Despite these obstacles, my commitment to my mission remains unwavering. Through my experiences with MusicAAA, I’ve come to realize how powerful music is in bridging gaps between people and cultures, especially for those who need it most. Music creates harmony not just in sound but in the lives of those it touches. My goal is to continue expanding MusicAAA, ensuring that autistic children worldwide can experience the profound benefits of music therapy and find joy, connection, and support through music.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony. While I’m earning my music degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. My organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute. Despite certain setbacks, I persist in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

Since the advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been widely observed and researched. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory, pitch recognition, and music-based therapies abound in autism research. Music historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Glenn Gould to “Blind Tom” Wiggins. However, it is surprising how infrequently autistic people have been asked to account for how they produce and experience music or why it matters to them. In *Speaking for Ourselves*, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan engages in deep conversations with ten unique individuals who share two basic commonalities: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life centered around music. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, inviting readers to experience a rich tapestry of ideas, images, and musical sounds. I am fascinated by music’s connection with autistic people because of Bakan’s book and my personal experience. As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; *Florida Today*, Newsbreak, and *Hometown News* published articles featuring my non-profit. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing the diversity of cultures and abilities. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, connecting students from different cultures and abilities, and creating compromises in difficult situations. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students have been crucial, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them into my own work. Receiving this scholarship would significantly benefit my career path and journey. It would provide the financial support needed to focus on my studies and the expansion of MusicAAA. This support would empower me to continue using my passion for music to make a meaningful impact, helping autistic children find their voice and place in the world.

Enrolling in a music program was driven by my passion for understanding the deep connection between music and autistic individuals. Michael Bakan's book inspired me by highlighting how music can significantly impact the lives of autistic people. This insight, coupled with my observations of music therapy sessions, where autistic children responded uniquely to the same musical stimuli, underscored music's power to communicate and connect on a profound level. My desire to use music as a tool for social good led me to create MusicAAA, a global non-profit organization that uses music therapy to support autistic children. My educational journey in music aims to deepen my understanding and enhance my ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these children. I seek to acquire a comprehensive understanding of music's therapeutic applications, especially for individuals with autism. The coursework will provide me with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to design and implement effective music therapy programs. By learning about music composition, auditory perception, and the psychological effects of music, I can develop tailored interventions that cater to the unique experiences of autistic individuals. Additionally, engaging with peers and mentors in the field will expose me to diverse perspectives and innovative approaches, enriching my understanding of how music can be utilized to improve lives. The knowledge and skills I gain from my studies will be directly applied to expanding and improving MusicAAA. With a deeper understanding of music therapy, I can enhance our programs, ensuring they are more effective and inclusive. My goal is to offer a wider variety of musical instruments and experiences, allowing each child to find their unique voice through music. By doing so, I hope to foster an environment of inclusivity and acceptance, helping autistic children develop their communication, attention, and socialization skills. Furthermore, my education will empower me to advocate for the broader integration of music therapy into healthcare and education systems. By conducting research and publishing findings on the benefits of music therapy, I aim to contribute to the growing evidence base that supports its effectiveness. This advocacy could lead to increased recognition and funding for music therapy programs, benefiting more children and families. In the long term, I aspire to become a music educator, inspiring others to pursue careers in music therapy and continue the mission of using music to create positive social change. Balancing work with my studies has been both challenging and enriching, significantly shaping my academic and personal growth. Leading MusicAAA while pursuing my degree has taught me invaluable time management and organizational skills. The need to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and maintain focus has helped me develop a strong sense of discipline and responsibility. These skills are not only crucial for my academic success but also prepare me for future professional challenges. Working while studying has provided me with a practical understanding of how my academic knowledge can be applied in real-world settings. Every concept I learn in class finds immediate relevance in my work with MusicAAA, creating a dynamic interplay between theory and practice. For example, learning about different musical techniques and their psychological impacts has allowed me to innovate and improve our therapy sessions, making them more engaging and effective for the children we serve. Despite the challenges, the sense of fulfillment I derive from my work keeps me motivated. Knowing that my efforts are making a positive impact on the lives of autistic children provides a profound sense of purpose. Working while studying has taught me resilience, adaptability, and a strong work ethic—qualities that will be invaluable in my future career and endeavors.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, (based in Florida) with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

s I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This program not only assisted children but also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and abilities. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. Growing up in a low-income family presented numerous challenges that significantly shaped my academic journey and determination. Financial constraints meant that resources such as private tutoring, extracurricular activities, and even basic educational materials were often out of reach. However, these limitations fostered resilience, resourcefulness, and an unwavering commitment to my education. I learned to maximize the opportunities available to me, often taking on additional responsibilities at home and in part-time jobs to support my family while maintaining my academic performance. Despite these hardships, I excelled academically, achieving a 1550 on the SAT with a perfect score in Math. This accomplishment was not merely a reflection of my intellectual capabilities but a testament to my perseverance and dedication in the face of adversity. My scores opened doors to educational opportunities that would have otherwise been inaccessible, providing a pathway to further my studies and pursue my passions. My career goals are deeply rooted in my experiences to make a meaningful impact through music therapy. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. Receiving this scholarship would be instrumental in alleviating the financial burden of higher education, allowing me to focus wholeheartedly on my studies and personal growth. It would enable me to continue my academic journey without the constant worry of financial instability, thus fostering an environment where I can thrive and innovate. The financial support from this scholarship would be transformative, enabling me to further develop MusicAAA and expand its reach. With reduced financial stress, I can dedicate more time and resources to refining our programs, conducting research, and training more student musicians. This investment in my education and nonprofit work will have a ripple effect, benefiting countless children and their families. In the future, I plan to contribute positively to my community and the field of music therapy by advancing research and practice. By sharing my findings and experiences through teaching and publications, I hope to inspire others to join this mission, creating a collaborative network of professionals dedicated to enhancing the lives of autistic children through music. Ultimately, this scholarship is not just an investment in my future but in the future of many. With your support, I can continue to use music as a powerful tool for healing and transformation, enriching lives and fostering a more inclusive and empathetic society.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

Navigating life with ADHD has profoundly shaped my experiences and aspirations. This condition has required resilience, adaptability, and creativity, traits that have not only helped me manage my own challenges but also inspired me to support others facing similar difficulties, particularly through my work with children diagnosed with Autism and ADHD. My journey began with a fascination for the intersection of music and neurodiversity, sparked by Michael Bakan's "Speaking for Ourselves," which delves into the musical lives of autistic individuals. This book, combined with my personal observations during music therapy sessions, revealed the profound impact of music on neurodiverse children. Witnessing how children with Autism and ADHD responded uniquely to music therapy, I was inspired to create a platform that could harness the power of music to support their development. This inspiration led to the founding of MusicAAA, a global non-profit organization dedicated to providing music therapy to children with Autism and ADHD. My personal experience with ADHD has been instrumental in shaping the empathetic and inclusive approach of MusicAAA. I understood firsthand the importance of patience, understanding, and tailored strategies in working with neurodiverse individuals. MusicAAA trains advanced student musicians from diverse backgrounds to conduct therapy sessions, fostering an inclusive environment where children can thrive. The program allows children to explore various instruments, helping them improve attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. The success of MusicAAA is evident in the support from organizations like Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading, as well as media coverage from Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News. Notably, the organization has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Through MusicAAA, I have provided a valuable service to children and forged connections with people worldwide. This experience has broadened my perspectives and deepened my empathy. My ADHD has taught me the importance of structure and creativity in managing tasks, skills crucial in running MusicAAA and ensuring its success. My work with MusicAAA has developed my diplomatic skills, enabling me to connect students from various cultural and neurodiverse backgrounds. Empathy, born from my own ADHD experience, has been vital in relating to the children and supporting the student musicians. Additionally, my conscientiousness has driven me to create an inclusive, innovative environment that embraces diverse perspectives and methodologies. The experience with MusicAAA has profoundly influenced my personal and professional goals. I plan to pursue a degree in music, integrating my academic knowledge into the ongoing work of MusicAAA. My ultimate goal is to expand the reach of MusicAAA, bringing the benefits of music therapy to as many children with Autism and ADHD as possible, particularly those from underserved communities. Upon completing my graduate degrees, I aspire to become a professor of music, promoting the mission of MusicAAA and inspiring future generations to use their talents for social good. By expanding my non-profit and incorporating my educational insights, I hope to create a lasting impact on the lives of neurodiverse children. Throughout history, music has been a universal language that transcends cultural and personal barriers. MusicAAA harnesses this power, creating harmony in the lives of children with Autism and ADHD. Through my own experiences with ADHD and my dedication to this cause, I aim to continue this mission, ensuring every child has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of music.

My passion for music and its profound impact on individuals, especially those with autism and ADHD, has shaped my academic and extracurricular pursuits. Witnessing music's transformative power led me to create MusicAAA, a global non-profit organization that uses music therapy to support and improve the lives of children with these conditions. Through MusicAAA, I have developed leadership, critical thinking, and diplomatic skills. I have worked with a diverse group of individuals from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds, broadening my perspectives and enhancing my empathy. My journey with MusicAAA has shaped my character and influenced my educational and career goals. I am committed to continuing my studies in music, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels, to deepen my knowledge and expertise in this field. My ultimate goal is to expand MusicAAA and reach as many children as possible, using music as a tool to aid disadvantaged autistic children from underrepresented groups. My career goals are deeply intertwined with my passion for music and my commitment to positively impacting the community. I aim to pursue a career that combines my love for music with my desire to help others, particularly children with autism and ADHD. Through MusicAAA, I have already seen the tremendous benefits that music therapy can provide to these children. My goal is to expand this program and continue developing innovative and effective ways to use music as a therapeutic tool. To achieve these goals, I plan to continue my education in music, pursuing both undergraduate and graduate degrees. My studies will provide me with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to enhance the effectiveness of MusicAAA and develop new programs and initiatives. A strong academic foundation in music will enable me to understand the intricacies of music therapy and its impact on neurological development, which is crucial for creating effective and evidence-based interventions. In addition to my academic pursuits, I plan to gain practical experience by working with established music therapy programs and professionals in the field. This hands-on experience will allow me to learn from experts, refine my skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in music therapy. By combining my academic knowledge with practical experience, I will be well-equipped to lead MusicAAA and make a significant impact on the lives of children with autism and ADHD. One of my long-term career goals is to serve as a professor of music, where I can teach and mentor students who share my passion for music therapy. In this role, I hope to inspire and educate the next generation of music therapists, equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to make a difference in the lives of their clients. By fostering a community of compassionate and skilled music therapists, I can ensure that the mission of MusicAAA continues to grow and evolve, reaching even more children in need. #### Impact on Community and Industry The impact I hope to make in the community and industry is multifaceted. Through MusicAAA, I aim to provide autistic children with access to high-quality music therapy, which can improve their attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. By offering these children an opportunity to engage with music in a therapeutic setting, I hope to enhance their quality of life and help them reach their full potential. In the broader community, I aim to raise awareness about the benefits of music therapy and advocate for its inclusion in educational and healthcare settings. Many children with autism and ADHD do not have access to music therapy due to financial constraints or lack of awareness. By advocating for integrating music therapy into schools and healthcare facilities, I hope to make this valuable resource more accessible to all children who could benefit from it. In the music therapy industry, I aspire to contribute to the body of research and knowledge on the effectiveness of music therapy for autistic children. Through my work with MusicAAA, I plan to collaborate with researchers and professionals to conduct studies and gather data on the impact of our programs. By publishing our findings and sharing our experiences, I hope to contribute to the evidence base for music therapy and encourage more professionals to consider this approach in their practice. My work with MusicAAA has already demonstrated the significant impact that music therapy can have on autistic children. Through our programs, we have seen improvements in children's attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. Parents have expressed their gratitude for the positive changes they have observed in their children, and many have noted that their children look forward to their music therapy sessions each week. This feedback reinforces my belief in the power of music therapy and motivates me to continue expanding and improving our programs. Furthermore, MusicAAA has provided me with valuable leadership experience and taught me the importance of collaboration and teamwork. Running a non-profit organization requires a diverse set of skills, including project management, fundraising, marketing, and public relations. Through my work with MusicAAA, I have developed these skills and learned how to lead and motivate a team effectively. These experiences have prepared me well for a career in music therapy and given me the confidence to pursue my goals with determination and resilience. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

Growing up as a Pacific Islander in the United States, I experienced a unique blend of cultural influences that shaped my worldview and fueled my passion for diversity and inclusion. With a Polynesian stepfather and an American father, my upbringing was a tapestry of two distinct cultures. This dual heritage provided me with a rich and multifaceted perspective, but it also came with challenges. In my suburban Florida community, I often felt excluded due to the lack of peers who shared my ethnic background. However, these experiences only strengthened my resolve to celebrate and promote diversity, particularly through my passion for music therapy. As a Pacific Islander attending college, my identity is a bridge between cultures, a reminder of the importance of embracing and celebrating diversity. It means valuing the rich traditions of my Polynesian heritage while embracing the opportunities and responsibilities that come with being part of a diverse academic community. This unique perspective allows me to see the world through multiple lenses and understand the importance of inclusivity in all aspects of life. One of the most significant ways I have promoted diversity is through my nonprofit organization, MusicAAA. This initiative aims to provide music therapy to children with autism, leveraging the therapeutic power of music to improve their lives. Our team comprises members from around the globe, including Trinidad and Tobago, Germany, Russia, Argentina, Vietnam, India, and South Korea. This diverse group brings a wealth of perspectives, enriching our work and allowing us to better serve our community. My commitment to diversity extends beyond my nonprofit work. As a Bank of America Student Leader, I participated in diversity seminars that deepened my understanding of intersectionality and strengthened my beliefs in the importance of inclusion. At the national summit, I collaborated with student leaders from various backgrounds, which reinforced my commitment to creating inclusive environments. One of the most profound experiences that solidified my dedication to music therapy and diversity occurred at the Holmes Regional Medical Center. As a volunteer musician with MusicMDs, I played music for patients to provide comfort and emotional support. One encounter with an elderly patient on life support left a lasting impact on me. The patient, unable to see her family, found solace in the music I played. Her favorite song, “Careless Whisper,” brought her joy and peace in her final moments. This experience highlighted the profound impact of music therapy and reinforced my desire to spread its benefits to as many people as possible. Inspired by this experience, I delved into researching the therapeutic benefits of music. I wrote a research paper on music therapy for the Concord Review and founded MusicAAA to provide music therapy to children with autism. Our organization has received recognition and support from various entities, including a Nobel Peace Prize nomination. This journey has been incredibly rewarding, and I am committed to continuing this work throughout my academic and professional career. Receiving this scholarship would enable me to further my education and expand the reach of MusicAAA. My goal is to study musicology and related disciplines to deepen my understanding of how music can heal and transform lives. By integrating academic knowledge with practical applications, I aim to improve the efficacy of our music therapy sessions and reach more children in need.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

What makes me a leader is my ability to turn vision into reality, inspire and connect diverse groups, and my unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. My journey as a leader began with a profound realization during a therapy session for autistic children. Observing the diverse reactions of children to the end of their music therapy sessions, I was inspired to leverage music as a therapeutic tool. This led me to create MusicAAA, a global non-profit dedicated to helping autistic children through music therapy. Leadership, to me, is about creating opportunities and fostering environments where everyone can thrive. With MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from diverse socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic backgrounds to manage sessions with autistic children. This inclusivity was a cornerstone of our mission, ensuring that children from all walks of life could benefit from our program. Our efforts were supported by organizations like Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading, and our work was featured in various media outlets, further amplifying our reach. Diplomacy has been a key aspect of my leadership. Connecting students from different cultures and abilities required creating compromises and understanding diverse perspectives. My diplomatic skills were crucial in establishing professional relationships with heads of Autism centers and securing media coverage to raise awareness about our mission. Empathy and conscientiousness are traits that I hold dear and are essential to my leadership style. Relating to the children and forming supportive relationships with my student musicians allowed me to create a nurturing and effective therapeutic environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I incorporated various viewpoints into our work, fostering a truly inclusive and innovative program. Diligence has driven the success of MusicAAA. I relied on my diligence to make critical judgments and enhance our program’s effectiveness. This involved meticulous attention to detail, decision-making, and research to ensure we met our objectives in finance, human resources, and outreach. Without these traits, MusicAAA would not have achieved the impact it has today. My leadership extends beyond immediate organizational success; it shapes my future aspirations. My experience with MusicAAA has profoundly influenced my educational and career goals. In college, I am pursuing a degree in music, with the intent to apply my knowledge to continue aiding disadvantaged autistic children. My ultimate goal is to serve as a professor of music, spreading my mission to ensure the continuation of our work through others. Leadership is about vision, inclusivity, empathy, diligence, and the relentless pursuit of positive change. Through MusicAAA, I have demonstrated these qualities, transforming a simple idea into a global movement that fills children’s lives with harmony and joy. This experience has not only defined me as a leader but has also solidified my commitment to using my skills and passions to make a lasting difference in the world.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Understood, here's a revised 600-word personal statement: --- Raised in a fusion of American and Polynesian cultures, my background has been characterized by diversity. This upbringing, in a Florida community where I often felt like an outlier, instilled in me a deep commitment to inclusivity and understanding. This foundation has been pivotal in my life, particularly influencing the establishment of MusicAAA, a non-profit dedicated to providing music therapy to autistic children. The conception of MusicAAA was sparked by a therapy session where I witnessed the transformative impact of music on autistic children. This experience, combined with the insights from Michael Bakan’s "Speaking for Ourselves," galvanized me into action. I envisioned a platform where skilled student musicians from various backgrounds could offer music therapy to these children. Garnering support from organizations like Costco and Peace First, and gaining recognition through media features and a Nobel Peace Prize nomination, MusicAAA became a reality. Leading MusicAAA has been a journey of growth. It honed my diplomatic skills, as I navigated cultural and ability differences, and emphasized empathy and diligence. These qualities were crucial in establishing strong partnerships and ensuring our programs' success. A significant challenge was maintaining high volunteer standards, requiring a blend of musical talent and empathy. Drawing on discipline learned from personal challenges, such as mastering the two-finger push-up and improving running times, inspired by Emmanuel Korir, I persevered. The impact of MusicAAA has been profound. Seeing improvements in the children’s skills affirmed my belief in music’s healing power and the need for accessible therapies. This success has reinforced my resolve to expand our reach globally. Looking forward, I aim to deepen my expertise in music therapy through academic pursuits. I plan to integrate these insights with my non-profit work. Post-graduation, as a music professor, I intend to perpetuate MusicAAA’s mission and influence future generations. The University of Washington, with its focus on diversity and excellence, aligns with my ethos. Observing its diverse student body, I see a place where my experiences and values resonate. My journey, marked by resilience and a dedication to using music as a transformative tool, makes me an ideal candidate for your institution. In sum, my life has been a blend of cultural experiences, overcoming challenges through perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to using music for healing. At the University of Washington, I eagerly anticipate continuing this journey, contributing to a community that values diversity and excellence.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

One child screamed constantly while another acted aggressively because their music therapist ended their sessions. I had an idea, so I created a global non-profit to support my mission. Parents were delighted with their children’s improved attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing a diversity of ability. My goals now align with my mission. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Observing a therapy session, I noticed how children with autism behaved. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist ending their sessions. They love music and benefit from it. I had an idea: what if I could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit to support my mission. I trained advanced student musicians from various groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected their instrument. Parents were delighted with their children’s improved attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing a diversity of cultures and ability. I have changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Since the advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been observed and researched widely. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory and pitch recognition, and music-based therapies and interventions abound in autism research. Meanwhile, music historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Glenn Gould to “Blind Tom” Wiggins. However, it is surprising how infrequently autistic people have been asked to account for how they produce and experience music or why it matters to them. In Speaking for Ourselves, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan does just that, engaging in deep conversations—some spanning the course of years—with ten fascinating and very unique individuals who share two basic commonalities: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life in which music plays a central role. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies and intersections of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, not from an autistic point of view but rather from several different autistic points of view, inviting readers to partake of a rich tapestry of words, ideas, images, and musical sounds that speak to both the diversity of autistic experience and the common humanity shared by all. I am fascinated by music’s connection with autistic people because of Bakan’s book and my personal experience. I observed this love during music therapy sessions, noticing one child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Although the children coped uniquely, they both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA. This program not only assisted children; it also presented me with opportunities to develop my character. Empathy has been crucial to my mission, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to form a diverse, inclusive work environment. By befriending musicians from around the world, I viewed thinking from various perspectives and implemented them in my mission. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level by brainstorming ways to increase the effectiveness of every therapy session. These traits enabled me to pursue my mission with a passion. The autistic children displayed improvement in their attention, behavior, communication, and socialization, but my mind and heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. Through Bakan’s book and MusicAAA’s foundation, I matured immensely and changed my educational goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Since the advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been observed and researched widely. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory and pitch recognition, and music-based therapies and interventions abound in autism research. Meanwhile, music historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Glenn Gould to “Blind Tom” Wiggins. However, it is surprising how infrequently autistic people have been asked to account for how they produce and experience music or why it matters to them. In Speaking for Ourselves, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan does just that, engaging in deep conversations—some spanning the course of years—with ten fascinating and very unique individuals who share two basic commonalities: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life in which music plays a central role. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies and intersections of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, not from an autistic point of view but rather from several different autistic points of view, inviting readers to partake of a rich tapestry of words, ideas, images, and musical sounds that speak to both the diversity of autistic experience and the common humanity shared by all. I am fascinated by music’s connection with autistic people because of Bakan’s book and my personal experience. I observed this love during music therapy sessions, noticing one child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Although the children coped uniquely, they both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA. I trained advanced student musicians from various groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected their instrument. Parents were delighted with their children’s improved attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing a diversity of cultures and ability. I have changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Music, often hailed as the universal language, transcends boundaries, cultures, and, most importantly, personal limitations. Its power, as witnessed through my journey with MusicAAA, speaks volumes about its therapeutic potential, especially for individuals on the autism spectrum. Autism is, undeniably, a complex puzzle. For those diagnosed with this condition, the world often seems overwhelming, or conversely, underwhelming. Social cues, emotions, or even the mere act of communication can sometimes turn into Herculean tasks. Through its cadence, it provides a structured medium for these individuals to express, understand, and even thrive. At MusicAAA, the transformations I witnessed were nothing short of miraculous. A child, otherwise non-verbal, would suddenly find his rhythm on the drums, expressing joy, frustration, or mere contentment. Another, perhaps overwhelmed by her surroundings, would find solace in the gentle tinkling of the xylophone. These instruments weren't just tools; they became extensions of these children, offering a voice to their often silenced worlds. Michael Bakan’s insightful observations on the profound connection between music and autism echo these experiences. Figures like Glenn Gould and “Blind Tom” Wiggins stand as monumental testaments to this connection. Each note they played, every rhythm they set, wasn't just music; it was a narrative of their life, their challenges, and their unique perspective. This further solidified my belief in the mission of MusicAAA. If provided the right avenues, how many more Goulds or Wiggins could we discover? Yet, the journey was not without its challenges. One of the most poignant moments that highlighted the intensity of this connection was the emotional outbursts of the children at the end of our sessions. The tears, the anxiety, and at times, aggression, were clear indicators of how deeply ingrained music had become in their therapy. This realization, while validating the program's impact, also underscored the responsibility that came with it. To address this, we delved deeper. We consulted therapists, psychologists, and experts. It wasn’t just about introducing music; it was about integrating it holistically. Transitional techniques, calming-down sessions, and post-therapy engagements became crucial elements of our program. These not only eased the emotional transitions for the children but also enhanced their overall therapeutic experience. Furthermore, the global expanse of MusicAAA brought forth a plethora of experiences, insights, and, inevitably, challenges. My role evolved from merely being the program’s founder to its pivot. Balancing varied perspectives, mediating conflicts, and ensuring the core mission remained unhindered became daily tasks. This vast interaction pool was, in many ways, a classroom. Every challenge posed a lesson, every conflict an opportunity to learn and grow. The realizations were profound. Music, while universal in its appeal, is deeply personal in its interpretation. Embracing this diversity, understanding it, and harmonizing it for the greater good of MusicAAA became not just a responsibility, but also a passion. The path ahead, fueled by these experiences, is clear. The scholarship I seek is not just a means to an end; it's a gateway. A gateway to delve deeper into the intricate tapestry of music, to refine the therapeutic methodologies of MusicAAA, and to reach out to many more awaiting that magical touch of music in their lives. In conclusion, the role of music in the realm of autism spectrum therapy, as evidenced by our journey with MusicAAA, is monumental. Through academic pursuits, research, and ground-level implementations, we aim to harness this power to its fullest potential. Every note played, every rhythm set, is not just music; it's a beacon of hope, a call for understanding, and a celebration of the unique yet universal language that binds us all.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Delving into the powerful connection between music and autism has been a transformative journey. Bakan's book and my observations in therapy sessions became my compass, leading me toward my purpose. I remember the heart-tugging moments in therapy sessions where children, with varying autism diagnoses, reacted profoundly to music. I became engulfed with the idea that music could be an instrument of change, healing, and growth. However, like any journey, there have been significant challenges. My aspirations have always soared higher than the fiscal constraints I've experienced. The limitations of my financial background have made accessing resources, training, and instruments a constant battle. While many students have the privilege of affording private music lessons or accessing premium resources, I often found myself relying on borrowed books, free online tutorials, and community programs to advance my musical skills and knowledge. Many nights were spent studying in dimly lit, shared spaces rather than well-equipped studios, and attending workshops or events often meant saving for weeks or choosing between necessities. The scarcity, however, has cultivated resilience in me. I've learned the art of improvisation, stretching every dollar to its maximum potential and seeking every opportunity to ensure MusicAAA's success. This journey has taught me how to work with limited resources and turn adversities into advantages. A scholarship would serve as a beacon, illuminating the path towards my dreams. While I've managed to establish and run MusicAAA, the journey is still in its infancy. Attending college with a focus on music will equip me with a deeper understanding, advanced techniques, and the professional network needed to elevate my initiative. This financial support would mean fewer hours working part-time jobs and more time diving into academic studies, research, and hands-on practice. It would offer me access to resources, like updated musical equipment, studio spaces, and mentorship opportunities, which would otherwise be out of reach. It would unshackle the weight of financial concern, enabling me to immerse myself wholeheartedly in my studies and to continue expanding MusicAAA's impact. My dream, fueled by passion and personal experience, stands at the intersection of music, therapy, and inclusivity. MusicAAA has already shown how integrating music into the lives of autistic children can lead to remarkable improvements in their attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. By expanding my nonprofit and sharing my mission as a future professor of music, I plan to cascade this ripple effect throughout society. As more individuals understand and implement music's therapeutic powers, the realm of education and therapy will witness a paradigm shift, offering more inclusive, effective, and empathetic treatments. Additionally, my goal to reach disadvantaged autistic children from underrepresented groups is pivotal. By focusing on this niche, MusicAAA not only introduces these children to the world of music but also levels the playing field, giving them opportunities they might never have had. Furthermore, as MusicAAA trains student musicians from diverse backgrounds, it fosters cross-cultural understanding and empathy. These students, upon entering the world as professionals, carry forward the values of inclusivity and acceptance, indirectly creating a society that is more understanding and accommodating of differences. In essence, my dream, which intertwines the magic of music with the wonders of therapy, not only aims to uplift the lives of autistic individuals but also envisions a society that sings a harmonious song of diversity, acceptance, and unity.

Delving into the powerful connection between music and autism has been a transformative journey. Bakan's book and my observations in therapy sessions became my compass, leading me toward my purpose. I remember the heart-tugging moments in therapy sessions where children, with varying autism diagnoses, reacted profoundly to music. I became engulfed with the idea that music could be an instrument of change, healing, and growth. However, like any journey, there have been significant challenges. My aspirations have always soared higher than the fiscal constraints I've experienced. The limitations of my financial background have made accessing resources, training, and instruments a constant battle. While many students have the privilege of affording private music lessons or accessing premium resources, I often found myself relying on borrowed books, free online tutorials, and community programs to advance my musical skills and knowledge. Many nights were spent studying in dimly lit, shared spaces rather than well-equipped studios, and attending workshops or events often meant saving for weeks or choosing between necessities. The scarcity, however, has cultivated resilience in me. I've learned the art of improvisation, stretching every dollar to its maximum potential and seeking every opportunity to ensure MusicAAA's success. This journey has taught me how to work with limited resources and turn adversities into advantages. A scholarship would serve as a beacon, illuminating the path towards my dreams. While I've managed to establish and run MusicAAA, the journey is still in its infancy. Attending college with a focus on music will equip me with a deeper understanding, advanced techniques, and the professional network needed to elevate my initiative. This financial support would mean fewer hours working part-time jobs and more time diving into academic studies, research, and hands-on practice. It would offer me access to resources, like updated musical equipment, studio spaces, and mentorship opportunities, which would otherwise be out of reach. It would unshackle the weight of financial concern, enabling me to immerse myself wholeheartedly in my studies and to continue expanding MusicAAA's impact. My dream, fueled by passion and personal experience, stands at the intersection of music, therapy, and inclusivity. MusicAAA has already shown how integrating music into the lives of autistic children can lead to remarkable improvements in their attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. By expanding my nonprofit and sharing my mission as a future professor of music, I plan to cascade this ripple effect throughout society. As more individuals understand and implement music's therapeutic powers, the realm of education and therapy will witness a paradigm shift, offering more inclusive, effective, and empathetic treatments. Additionally, my goal to reach disadvantaged autistic children from underrepresented groups is pivotal. By focusing on this niche, MusicAAA not only introduces these children to the world of music but also levels the playing field, giving them opportunities they might never have had. Furthermore, as MusicAAA trains student musicians from diverse backgrounds, it fosters cross-cultural understanding and empathy. These students, upon entering the world as professionals, carry forward the values of inclusivity and acceptance, indirectly creating a society that is more understanding and accommodating of differences. In essence, my dream, which intertwines the magic of music with the wonders of therapy, not only aims to uplift the lives of autistic individuals but also envisions a society that sings a harmonious song of diversity, acceptance, and unity.

Delving into the powerful connection between music and autism has been a transformative journey. Bakan's book and my observations in therapy sessions became my compass, leading me toward my purpose. I remember the heart-tugging moments in therapy sessions where children, with varying autism diagnoses, reacted profoundly to music. I became engulfed with the idea that music could be an instrument of change, healing, and growth. However, like any journey, there have been significant challenges. My aspirations have always soared higher than the fiscal constraints I've experienced. The limitations of my financial background have made accessing resources, training, and instruments a constant battle. While many students have the privilege of affording private music lessons or accessing premium resources, I often found myself relying on borrowed books, free online tutorials, and community programs to advance my musical skills and knowledge. Many nights were spent studying in dimly lit, shared spaces rather than well-equipped studios, and attending workshops or events often meant saving for weeks or choosing between necessities. The scarcity, however, has cultivated resilience in me. I've learned the art of improvisation, stretching every dollar to its maximum potential and seeking every opportunity to ensure MusicAAA's success. This journey has taught me how to work with limited resources and turn adversities into advantages. A scholarship would serve as a beacon, illuminating the path towards my dreams. While I've managed to establish and run MusicAAA, the journey is still in its infancy. Attending college with a focus on music will equip me with a deeper understanding, advanced techniques, and the professional network needed to elevate my initiative. This financial support would mean fewer hours working part-time jobs and more time diving into academic studies, research, and hands-on practice. It would offer me access to resources, like updated musical equipment, studio spaces, and mentorship opportunities, which would otherwise be out of reach. It would unshackle the weight of financial concern, enabling me to immerse myself wholeheartedly in my studies and to continue expanding MusicAAA's impact. My dream, fueled by passion and personal experience, stands at the intersection of music, therapy, and inclusivity. MusicAAA has already shown how integrating music into the lives of autistic children can lead to remarkable improvements in their attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. By expanding my nonprofit and sharing my mission as a future professor of music, I plan to cascade this ripple effect throughout society. As more individuals understand and implement music's therapeutic powers, the realm of education and therapy will witness a paradigm shift, offering more inclusive, effective, and empathetic treatments. Additionally, my goal to reach disadvantaged autistic children from underrepresented groups is pivotal. By focusing on this niche, MusicAAA not only introduces these children to the world of music but also levels the playing field, giving them opportunities they might never have had. Furthermore, as MusicAAA trains student musicians from diverse backgrounds, it fosters cross-cultural understanding and empathy. These students, upon entering the world as professionals, carry forward the values of inclusivity and acceptance, indirectly creating a society that is more understanding and accommodating of differences. In essence, my dream, which intertwines the magic of music with the wonders of therapy, not only aims to uplift the lives of autistic individuals but also envisions a society that sings a harmonious song of diversity, acceptance, and unity.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

**Musical Harmony: Leading with Purpose** Music has long been considered a universal language – one that speaks to our souls, transcends boundaries, and resonates in ways words often cannot. I was drawn to the power of music and its unique relationship with autism through Michael Bakan's book, "Speaking for Ourselves". Bakan highlighted the significance of music in the lives of those on the autism spectrum, presenting it not just as a therapeutic tool, but a profound expression of their individual experiences. Inspired by this connection and my own personal observations, I embarked on a journey to harness music as a therapeutic bridge, culminating in the establishment of my global non-profit, MusicAAA. At the intersection of my passion for music and desire to make a difference, I saw an opportunity to create a symbiotic environment where advanced student musicians could use their skills to assist autistic children. With the drums, xylophones, piano, and trumpet serving as tools of expression, I watched as children found their voice, rhythm, and, most importantly, a sense of belonging. Their progress was palpable - improved attention, enhanced behavior, and a notable increase in their communication and social skills. The journey wasn't without its challenges. Balancing academic responsibilities with the demands of managing a growing non-profit was a test of my dedication, time management, and organizational skills. Yet, my commitment to maintaining a strong GPA, coupled with the tangible difference MusicAAA was making in children's lives, motivated me to effectively partition my time and priorities. Leadership, in its true essence, is not just about taking charge but about steering a vision with empathy, resilience, and adaptability. As I expanded MusicAAA, I realized that diplomacy was crucial in bridging cultural differences and fostering an inclusive environment. Engaging with diverse team members and stakeholders, I honed my skills in negotiation, conflict resolution, and active listening. Building and nurturing these relationships taught me the importance of understanding and valuing different perspectives, a skill I believe is fundamental in any leadership role. Moreover, the intricate financial, operational, and strategic decisions I had to make for MusicAAA demanded a heightened level of diligence. It was imperative for me to be meticulous and informed, ensuring the nonprofit's vision was realized without compromise. My attention to detail, coupled with an innate sense of responsibility, ensured that I approached each challenge with a solution-oriented mindset. As I reflect on my journey with MusicAAA, I recognize the profound personal and professional growth I have experienced. I've not only honed my leadership skills but have also discovered a purpose that extends beyond myself. With an ambition to further explore the nexus of music and therapy, I envision a collegiate journey rooted in music. The knowledge I'll gain will not only enrich my personal understanding but will also amplify the impact of MusicAAA. While Mozart might not have foreseen his compositions resonating with autistic children centuries later, it is a testament to the timeless and transformative power of music. Through MusicAAA, I am humbled to have played a part in introducing this harmony into the lives of so many children. As I look ahead, my dream is to continue this legacy, ensuring that the therapeutic magic of music reaches every corner of the globe, one note at a time.

Living with a disability has undoubtedly shaped my view of the world, deepening my understanding of the spectrum of human experiences and inspiring a commitment to fostering inclusivity and understanding through music. My personal journey with disability opened my eyes to the intrinsic connection between music and the autistic community, a revelation beautifully articulated in Michael Bakan's compelling exploration of autistic individuals' engagement with music. Fuelled by my firsthand experience with disability and the insights gleaned from Bakan's work, I could not shake off the compelling urge to bridge the gap between the autistic community and the healing world of music. This urge transformed into a vivid vision, giving birth to MusicAAA, an organization that brings together autistic individuals and the soothing embrace of music. During therapy sessions, where I witnessed the profound impact of music on autistic children, I understood that I was in a unique position to empathize with their experiences and to contribute to their well-being using the therapeutic potential of music. This deep, personal connection fueled my determination, steering me to create a platform where music could serve as a haven, a place of joy and learning for autistic children. Leading MusicAAA became a personal journey of triumph and realization. As I navigated the complexities of bringing my vision to life, I embraced the beauty in diversity, both in terms of the range of abilities and the rich blend of cultures represented in our community. My disability offered me a perspective enriched with empathy and a deep understanding of the value of personalized approaches. Through this endeavor, I cultivated diplomacy, a quality essential in connecting with students from diverse backgrounds and fostering harmony within our organization. It instilled in me a heightened sense of conscientiousness, enabling me to create an inclusive work environment, where every individual felt seen, heard, and valued. As I envisage my future, it is intertwined with the values and lessons gleaned from my journey with MusicAAA. Fueled by my lived experiences as a disabled individual and driven by my resolve to contribute positively to the autistic community, I aspire to further my education in the field of music. I am eager to delve deeper, to acquire knowledge that would not only refine my skills but also enhance MusicAAA's mission of leveraging music as a transformative tool. As I stand at this pivotal juncture, ready to step into the academic world, my dreams stretch beyond personal milestones. I envisage myself as a music professor, inspiring a wave of compassionate, empathetic individuals ready to channel the universal language of music to foster connections and heal spirits. MusicAAA stands as a testament to the transformative power of music, a symphony of inclusivity woven from the diverse threads of human experience. It echoes the potential to expand the vistas of autistic individuals, offering a harmonious space of understanding and acceptance. My disability has not only guided me to this path but has become my strength, infusing my mission with a deep-seated empathy and a firsthand understanding of the transformative potential of music. As I forge ahead, I carry with me the dreams and hopes of many. Inspired by the universal language of music, I am committed to nurturing a space where every individual, irrespective of their abilities, can find harmony, joy, and a sense of belonging. Through MusicAAA, I envision a world where music transcends barriers, uniting us in a symphony of empathy, understanding, and boundless possibilities. It is a journey of harmony that I am eager to continue, reaching out to touch more lives with the healing embrace of music, one note at a time.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

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As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

From the founding moments of MusicAAA, my personal journey has been one of passion, discovery, and commitment to creating a meaningful impact in the lives of autistic children through the universal language of music. It has been a journey that has not only shaped the lives of others but also profoundly shaped my character and future aspirations. My leadership and communication skills were pivotal in making MusicAAA what it is today. From building connections with Autism centers to creating compromises for students in difficult situations, my ability to articulate my vision and inspire my team has been the driving force behind our success. Leadership, for me, goes beyond merely guiding; it's about inspiring, empathizing, and working alongside others to achieve a shared goal. Resilience has been my constant companion. The journey had its share of obstacles and challenges, but I never wavered. I adapted, learned, and persevered, fueled by the belief in the potential of music to transform lives. Unselfishness lies at the heart of MusicAAA. Every decision, every step, was driven by a desire to make a positive difference. I recognized the unique ways in which music spoke to autistic children, and I knew I could play a part in making that connection even stronger. The creation of MusicAAA demanded unwavering focus and determination. Aligning with the specific goal of helping autistic children through music therapy, I was committed to ensuring that the program was effective and tailored to individual needs. A strong work ethic was indispensable. From the day-to-day operations to the long-term vision, I consistently strove for excellence, driven by attention to detail and a relentless pursuit of improvement. As I look to the future, my goals are clear. I will pursue a degree in music as both an undergraduate and a graduate student. This educational journey aligns perfectly with the mission of my nonprofit. I want to use my passion for music as a tool to aid autistic children, particularly those from underrepresented groups in the community. Ultimately, I hope to serve as a professor of music, ensuring that my mission continues through the students I teach. MusicAAA has taught me that music is more than entertainment; it's a bridge that connects us across differences, a tool that can heal and empower. As Mozart's compositions spoke to the hearts of many centuries ago, MusicAAA uses music to fill children's lives with harmony. My commitment to this mission is unbreakable, and I am resolute in my pursuit to reach as many children as possible. This scholarship would not only support my education but also fortify my lifelong commitment to using music as a means to uplift and empower. It's a journey that started with an idea and blossomed into a global mission. With your support, I am excited to see where this path leads, and I am committed to making every step count.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

The potential of education to shape individuals and their capacities to affect change in the world around them is profoundly significant. In my own journey, I have developed a compelling interest in the intersection of music and neurodiversity, specifically as it relates to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This interest, cultivated through both academic inquiry and personal experiences, has motivated me to create a platform that serves the autistic community through the transformative power of music. It is my belief that expanding upon this foundation through further education will enable me to better serve my community and make a lasting difference in the lives of countless individuals. The seed of this interest was planted by the thought-provoking work of esteemed ethnomusicologist, Michael Bakan. In his seminal work, "Speaking for Ourselves," Bakan presents a series of insightful dialogues with ten individuals, all of whom share a diagnosis of ASD and a deep connection to music. His work provided an intimate and unfiltered look at how these individuals engage with music and why it holds such significance for them. Bakan's book acted as a catalyst for my fascination with the role of music in the lives of autistic individuals. Theoretical knowledge transformed into experiential understanding during my time volunteering at a therapy center. Observing how differently autistic children reacted to the cessation of their music therapy session was an eye-opening experience. The realization that I could potentially provide help and comfort to these children through music therapy was a pivotal moment for me. This led to the founding of MusicAAA, a global non-profit initiative that has rapidly grown with the generous support of a diverse community. MusicAAA is designed to equip aspiring student musicians from all walks of life with the skills to conduct therapy sessions for autistic children. The sessions encourage the children to express themselves through various instruments, such as drums, xylophones, piano, or the trumpet. The effectiveness of the program, as evidenced by the positive feedback from parents, underscores the transformative potential of music therapy. This initiative has not only aided the children but has also broadened my understanding of the world. Interacting with individuals from a plethora of cultures and abilities, and brainstorming ways to enhance the effectiveness of our sessions, has honed my creativity and critical thinking abilities. It has also shaped my character traits, from diplomacy and conscientiousness to empathy and diligence. These traits have proven instrumental in establishing professional relationships, fostering an inclusive environment, and driving MusicAAA to new heights. The journey with MusicAAA has profoundly influenced my educational and career goals. The successes and challenges along the way have only strengthened my resolve to continue this endeavor. My plan for higher education reflects this commitment. I intend to pursue a degree in music, with the aim of deepening my understanding of the power of music and its potential therapeutic benefits. In the longer term, I envision expanding my work with MusicAAA, using the knowledge gained from my education to improve and broaden our offerings. Ultimately, I aspire to serve as a professor of music, disseminating my mission among future generations of students and ensuring the continuity of my dream. Music, in its myriad forms and expressions, is intrinsically connected to the human experience. MusicAAA, through its work, has given voice to this universal language in a unique context, providing a harmonious presence in the lives of many children. With further education and the continued support of my community, I am confident that this initiative can be extended to reach and uplift countless more.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

My vision of making a positive global impact stems from my profound experiences at MusicAAA, a non-profit I founded to help autistic children through music therapy. This venture has grown from an idea to a transformative platform, impacting hundreds of children's lives and empowering budding musicians across various backgrounds to contribute meaningfully. Primarily, I intend to scale up MusicAAA's reach, envisioning its footprint across all continents. The world is filled with children who could benefit from music therapy and talented musicians who can be trained to lead sessions. Therefore, my goal is to partner with global NGOs, schools, and music academies to spread the program more broadly. I aspire to provide opportunities to underprivileged students, from different socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups, to harness their musical talents for this noble cause. Secondly, I plan to expand the instrument selection and therapeutic activities, making the program more engaging for children. The incorporation of more instruments, dance routines, and the infusion of digital technology like virtual reality in sessions could provide a more immersive therapeutic experience. This would not only improve the children's cognitive skills but also their motor abilities and overall development. Further, I will champion advocacy for autism awareness and the benefits of music therapy, utilizing my connections with media houses and autism centers. I will write articles, conduct workshops, and participate in forums to educate the public about autism and how music therapy can be instrumental in improving the quality of life for those affected. This, in turn, could lead to more funding, support, and acceptance for children with autism. My interaction with children at MusicAAA has instilled in me a deep sense of empathy for non-neurotypical individuals. I plan to extend this empathy into my future career by aligning my education towards understanding neurological disorders and exploring how art and therapy can better aid these individuals. Finally, I believe that the traits of diplomacy, conscientiousness, and diligence I developed while managing MusicAAA will be crucial in leading other impactful initiatives. I intend to leverage my knack for building bridges between diverse cultures and viewpoints to foster international collaborations that address global issues. The journey I embarked upon with MusicAAA has been transformative, and it has shaped my perspective of a truly inclusive world. I am more resolute than ever to continue making positive changes in society, driven by the belief that everyone has a unique rhythm, and when we embrace these diverse melodies, we can orchestrate a harmonious symphony of change.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Since encountering Michael Bakan's observations on the connection between music and autism, my life has been dramatically shaped by a single, guiding passion: to explore this nexus further and harness its transformative potential. It all began as a simple observation during a therapy session, where the palpable difference music made in the behavior of autistic children struck me. I wondered, what if I could personally help these children through music therapy? This question laid the foundation for MusicAAA, a global non-profit I founded, comprising hundreds of members across diverse socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups. The purpose? To bring music therapy to autistic children. It was heartening to see the enthusiastic support my mission received; corporations, newspapers, educators, and health foundations alike lent their resources and voices, transforming my idea into a reality. MusicAAA was more than just a non-profit; it was a beacon of hope for parents witnessing their children’s improved attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. Furthermore, it served as a platform for student musicians from diverse backgrounds to share their talent and engage with autistic children in a deeply meaningful way. Running MusicAAA has shaped me as a person and a leader. Diplomacy was at the forefront as I connected with people from different cultures and navigated difficult situations. Empathy and conscientiousness guided my interactions with the non-neurotypical students and the student musicians in our team. Additionally, the effort I put into creating a diverse and inclusive environment at MusicAAA reflects my commitment to inclusivity. The experience also honed my diligence, which was critical in managing various aspects of MusicAAA, including finance, human resources, and marketing. Through meticulous attention to detail and astute decision-making, I ensured that MusicAAA consistently achieved its objectives and maintained its growth trajectory. My journey with MusicAAA has profoundly influenced my future academic and career goals. Now, my resolve is to pursue a degree in music both at undergraduate and graduate levels. This pursuit is not just for personal enlightenment but to enhance the curriculum of MusicAAA and reach out to disadvantaged autistic children from underrepresented groups in our community. Ultimately, my vision is to serve as a professor of music, integrating the mission of MusicAAA into my teachings to inspire future generations. My ambition is to expand MusicAAA's reach, touching as many lives as possible, and continue to foster the connection between music and autism. In the grand tapestry of human culture, music holds a unique place. It bridges gaps, fosters connections, and conveys unspoken emotions. Much like how Mozart’s compositions, initially intended for the wealthy, unexpectedly resonated with autistic children centuries later, I hope that through MusicAAA, the transformative power of music will reach, touch, and improve the lives of countless autistic individuals around the world.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Since the advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been observed and researched widely. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory and pitch recognition, and music-based therapies and interventions abound in autism research. Meanwhile, music historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Glenn Gould to “Blind Tom” Wiggins. However, it is surprising how infrequently autistic people have been asked to account for how they produce and experience music or why it matters to them. In Speaking for Ourselves, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan does just that, engaging in deep conversations—some spanning the course of years—with ten fascinating and very unique individuals who share two basic commonalities: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life in which music plays a central role. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies and intersections of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, not from an autistic point of view but rather from several different autistic points of view, inviting readers to partake of a rich tapestry of words, ideas, images, and musical sounds that speak to both the diversity of autistic experience and the common humanity shared by all. I am fascinated by music’s connection with autistic people because of Bakan’s book and my personal experience. I observed this love during music therapy sessions, noticing one child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Although the children coped uniquely, they both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA. This program not only assisted children; it also presented me with opportunities to develop my character. Empathy has been crucial to my mission, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to form a diverse, inclusive work environment. By befriending musicians from around the world, I viewed thinking from various perspectives and implemented them in my mission. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level by brainstorming ways to increase the effectiveness of every therapy session. These traits enabled me to pursue my mission with a passion. The autistic children displayed improvement in their attention, behavior, communication, and socialization, but my mind and heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. Through Bakan’s book and MusicAAA’s foundation, I matured immensely and changed my educational goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I founded a global 501(c)3 registered nonprofit which brings Music Therapy to children with Autism. We've been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, won the International Peace First Challenge, sponsored by major retailers, and featured in newspapers. Despite certain setbacks, I persist in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Since the advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been observed and researched widely. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory and pitch recognition, and music-based therapies and interventions abound in autism research. Meanwhile, music historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Glenn Gould to “Blind Tom” Wiggins. However, it is surprising how infrequently autistic people have been asked to account for how they produce and experience music or why it matters to them. In Speaking for Ourselves, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan does just that, engaging in deep conversations—some spanning the course of years—with ten fascinating and very unique individuals who share two basic commonalities: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life in which music plays a central role. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies and intersections of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, not from an autistic point of view but rather from several different autistic points of view, inviting readers to partake of a rich tapestry of words, ideas, images, and musical sounds that speak to both the diversity of autistic experience and the common humanity shared by all. I am fascinated by music’s connection with autistic people because of Bakan’s book and my personal experience. I observed this love during music therapy sessions, noticing one child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Although the children coped uniquely, they both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA. This program not only assisted children; it also presented me with opportunities to develop my character. Empathy has been crucial to my mission, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to form a diverse, inclusive work environment. By befriending musicians from around the world, I viewed thinking from various perspectives and implemented them in my mission. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level by brainstorming ways to increase the effectiveness of every therapy session. These traits enabled me to pursue my mission with a passion. The autistic children displayed improvement in their attention, behavior, communication, and socialization, but my mind and heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. Through Bakan’s book and MusicAAA’s foundation, I matured immensely and changed my educational goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Since the advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been observed and researched widely. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory and pitch recognition, and music-based therapies and interventions abound in autism research. Meanwhile, music historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Glenn Gould to “Blind Tom” Wiggins. However, it is surprising how infrequently autistic people have been asked to account for how they produce and experience music or why it matters to them. In Speaking for Ourselves, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan does just that, engaging in deep conversations—some spanning the course of years—with ten fascinating and very unique individuals who share two basic commonalities: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life in which music plays a central role. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies and intersections of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, not from an autistic point of view but rather from several different autistic points of view, inviting readers to partake of a rich tapestry of words, ideas, images, and musical sounds that speak to both the diversity of autistic experience and the common humanity shared by all. I am fascinated by music’s connection with autistic people because of Bakan’s book and my personal experience. I observed this love during music therapy sessions, noticing one child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Although the children coped uniquely, they both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA. This program not only assisted children; it also presented me with opportunities to develop my character. Empathy has been crucial to my mission, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to form a diverse, inclusive work environment. By befriending musicians from around the world, I viewed thinking from various perspectives and implemented them in my mission. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level by brainstorming ways to increase the effectiveness of every therapy session. These traits enabled me to pursue my mission with a passion. The autistic children displayed improvement in their attention, behavior, communication, and socialization, but my mind and heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. Through Bakan’s book and MusicAAA’s foundation, I matured immensely and changed my educational goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Since the advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been observed and researched widely. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory and pitch recognition, and music-based therapies and interventions abound in autism research. Meanwhile, music historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Glenn Gould to “Blind Tom” Wiggins. However, it is surprising how infrequently autistic people have been asked to account for how they produce and experience music or why it matters to them. In Speaking for Ourselves, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan does just that, engaging in deep conversations—some spanning the course of years—with ten fascinating and very unique individuals who share two basic commonalities: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life in which music plays a central role. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies and intersections of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, not from an autistic point of view but rather from several different autistic points of view, inviting readers to partake of a rich tapestry of words, ideas, images, and musical sounds that speak to both the diversity of autistic experience and the common humanity shared by all. I am fascinated by music’s connection with autistic people because of Bakan’s book and my personal experience. As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Emmanuel Korir is referred to as the next David Rudisha, the world-record holder for the 800m. His versatility is impressive; he is a winner of both 400m and 800m races. He is an inspiration to runners including myself. I set a goal to run a forty-eight second 400m. To achieve this goal, I researched off-season training for runners and developed an independent exercise and supplement plan. My plan included three hard days of exercise with short jogs on the other four days. I rotated sprints and lifted weights while also ingesting creatine, protein, and beet powder to improve my performance. Pain was ever present even in the dirt-tasting beet powder, exhaustion became normal, and blisters remained on my feet. However, I never missed a run or work out during the heat, cold, and rain. Even though I did not achieve my goal, my commitment to excellence displayed an improvement in my running time. Grit forced me to wake every single day with a purpose regardless of the outcome. On the other hand, I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

A room in the hospital was silent while a patient on life support lay in her bed. I introduced myself as a musician providing music therapy to patients. Coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine, Kenny Ji. I filled the room with “Careless Whisper.” She was enthralled, swaying to the beat; the nurse looked shocked at the patient’s new demeanor. I left the room, but the nurse burst out of it. I panicked until I heard the nurse thanking me between her sobs. The patient would not survive the night, and she had heard her favorite song live for the last time. I was amazed; even though the patient was facing her own mortality, I comforted her with music. This moment deeply touched me, and I yearned to spread music therapy further. Consequently, I founded a nonprofit that provides music therapy to children with Autism. The more I engage with music, the more I fortify my interest in it.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

Observing a therapy session, I noticed how children with autism behaved. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist ending their sessions. They love music and benefit from it. I had an idea: what if I could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit to support my mission. I trained advanced student musicians from various groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected their instrument. Parents were delighted with their children’s improved attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing a diversity of cultures and ability. I have changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Since the advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been observed and researched widely. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory and pitch recognition, and music-based therapies and interventions abound in autism research. Meanwhile, music historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Glenn Gould to “Blind Tom” Wiggins. However, it is surprising how infrequently autistic people have been asked to account for how they produce and experience music or why it matters to them. In Speaking for Ourselves, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan does just that, engaging in deep conversations—some spanning the course of years—with ten fascinating and very unique individuals who share two basic commonalities: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life in which music plays a central role. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies and intersections of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, not from an autistic point of view but rather from several different autistic points of view, inviting readers to partake of a rich tapestry of words, ideas, images, and musical sounds that speak to both the diversity of autistic experience and the common humanity shared by all. I am fascinated by music’s connection with autistic people because of Bakan’s book and my personal experience. I observed this love during music therapy sessions, noticing one child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Although the children coped uniquely, they both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA. This program not only assisted children; it also presented me with opportunities to develop my character. Empathy has been crucial to my mission, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to form a diverse, inclusive work environment. By befriending musicians from around the world, I viewed thinking from various perspectives and implemented them in my mission. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level by brainstorming ways to increase the effectiveness of every therapy session. These traits enabled me to pursue my mission with a passion. The autistic children displayed improvement in their attention, behavior, communication, and socialization, but my mind and heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. Through Bakan’s book and MusicAAA’s foundation, I matured immensely and changed my educational goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities. As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

I found the room I was searching for in the Holmes Regional Medical Center and knocked on the door; the nurse greeted me and I entered the dark hospital room. I remember the setting distinctly: the room was silent and eerie, and an elderly patient on life support was in her bed. I introduced myself and explained to the nurse and to the patient that I was a student musician who volunteered my time with MusicMDs, a nonprofit that provides music therapy to patients. With a weak voice, the patient said she was interested; she explained that her family could not visit her because they were on the other side of the country. We chatted a bit, and I was surprised to learn that her grandson was also a saxophonist; coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine (Kenny Ji). I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music. I was deeply touched, and from that moment I became preoccupied with music therapy. As a consequence of my experience with this patient, I yearned to spread music therapy further. I started researching the benefits of music therapy, which led me to write a research paper about music therapy for the Concord Review. My research into the therapeutic benefits of music interested me in music therapy related to Autism, and I consequently founded a nonprofit, MusicAAA, that provides music therapy to children with Autism. We even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. The more I engaged with music, the more I fortified my interest in it. I look forward to engaging with this field in college. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions within my nonprofit to improve. My experience with the MusicMDs patient revealed music’s palliative abilities. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

A room in the hospital was silent while a patient on life support lay in her bed. I introduced myself as a musician providing music therapy to patients. Coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine, Kenny Ji. I began playing the song “Careless Whisper”, and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music.

Since the advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been observed and researched widely. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory and pitch recognition, and music-based therapies and interventions abound in autism research. Meanwhile, music historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Glenn Gould to “Blind Tom” Wiggins. However, it is surprising how infrequently autistic people have been asked to account for how they produce and experience music or why it matters to them. In Speaking for Ourselves, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan does just that, engaging in deep conversations—some spanning the course of years—with ten fascinating and very unique individuals who share two basic commonalities: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life in which music plays a central role. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies and intersections of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, not from an autistic point of view but rather from several different autistic points of view, inviting readers to partake of a rich tapestry of words, ideas, images, and musical sounds that speak to both the diversity of autistic experience and the common humanity shared by all. I am fascinated by music’s connection with autistic people because of Bakan’s book and my personal experience. I once saw a child screamed constantly while another acted aggressively because their music therapist ended their sessions. I had an idea, so I created MusicAAA, a global 501(c)3 nonprofit which brings Music Therapy to children with Autism. Through Bakan’s book and MusicAAA’s foundation, I matured immensely and changed my educational goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

https://bold.org/scholarships/carlynns-comic-scholarship/

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. Through MusicAAA, I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. The organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

Observing a therapy session, I noticed how children with autism behaved. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist ending their sessions. They love music and benefit from it. I had an idea: what if I could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit to support my mission. I trained advanced student musicians from various groups to manage sessions with autistic children. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing a diversity of cultures and ability. I have changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.

I hope to use $1000 immediately for my studies at New York University. In New York University, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit (MusicAAA, a global 501(c)3 registered nonprofit which brings Music Therapy to children with Autism which was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize musicaaa.org), persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

Observing a therapy session, I noticed how children with Autism spectrum disorder behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announcing the end of their sessions. Because they love music and benefit from it, the children reacted negatively to the end of their treatment. I had an idea: what if I could help Autistic children through Music Therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, NewsBreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. This program also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened embracing a diversity of cultures and abilities. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

Observing a therapy session, I noticed how children with Autism spectrum disorder behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announcing the end of their sessions. Because they love music and benefit from it, the children reacted negatively to the end of their treatment. I had an idea: what if I could help Autistic children through Music Therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, NewsBreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. This program also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened embracing a diversity of cultures and abilities. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. My organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

A room in the hospital was silent while a patient on life support lay in her bed. I introduced myself as a musician providing music therapy to patients. Coincidentally, she was a huge fan of Kenny G, a famous saxophone player whose name was homophonous with mine, Kenny Ji. I filled the room with “Careless Whisper.” and I could tell that she was enthralled. The song filled the dark room with emotion, especially at the main chorus. The patient was swaying to the beat, and she was suddenly so lively compared to the moment when I first met her; the nurse looked shocked at the sudden change in the patient’s demeanor. At the end of the performance, they both clapped enthusiastically. After making my closing remarks, I left the room and walked down the hallway to the next section of the hospital. Suddenly, the nurse for whom I’d just performed burst out of the patient’s room and chased me down the hallway. At first I panicked, wondering if I had done something wrong, but then I realized that the nurse was thanking me between her sobs. She told me that the piece I had just played was her patient’s favorite song. The nurse explained that the patient would not survive through the night, and she had just heard her favorite song live for the last time. Nothing in training ever prepared me for this moment. Although I played music at a hospital, it never occurred to me that some patients for whom I played would not have long to live. I was amazed that even though the patient was facing something as serious as her own mortality, I was able to comfort her with music.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

Since the advent of autism as a diagnosed condition in the 1940s, the importance of music in the lives of autistic people has been observed and researched widely. Articles on musical savants, extraordinary feats of musical memory and pitch recognition, and music-based therapies and interventions abound in autism research. Meanwhile, music historians have posited autism-centered explanatory models to account for the unique musical artistry of everyone from Glenn Gould to “Blind Tom” Wiggins. However, it is surprising how infrequently autistic people have been asked to account for how they produce and experience music or why it matters to them. In Speaking for Ourselves, renowned ethnomusicologist Michael Bakan does just that, engaging in deep conversations—some spanning the course of years—with ten fascinating and very unique individuals who share two basic commonalities: an autism spectrum diagnosis and a life in which music plays a central role. These conversations offer profound insights into the intricacies and intersections of music, autism, neurodiversity, and life in general, not from an autistic point of view but rather from several different autistic points of view, inviting readers to partake of a rich tapestry of words, ideas, images, and musical sounds that speak to both the diversity of autistic experience and the common humanity shared by all. I am fascinated by music’s connection with autistic people because of Bakan’s book and my personal experience. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, which was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Through Bakan’s book and MusicAAA’s foundation, I matured immensely and changed my educational goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

Observing a therapy session, I noticed how children with autism behaved. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist ending their sessions. They love music and benefit from it. I had an idea: what if I could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit to support my mission. I trained advanced student musicians from various groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected their instrument. Parents were delighted with their children’s improved attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing a diversity of cultures and ability. I have changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

When I was young, my parents divorced, and I grew up with an American stepfather; on the other hand, I would visit my father during school breaks, and was also exposed to Polynesian Culture. Therefore, I had ties to both American and foreign culture, enabling my ability to see things from many perspectives. Both households had different languages, values, and cuisines. In my suburban Florida community, however, I had no peers from my ethnic background, which made me feel excluded. While pursuing my passion in music therapy, I kept diversity in mind. In my non-profit, MusicAAA, members from around the globe—including Trinidad and Tobago, Germany, Russia, Argentina, Vietnam, India, and South Korea—worked with me towards my dream: for every Autistic child to have access to music therapy. When I was selecting my members, I embraced a diverse body from every socioeconomic class, gender, and ethnic group: this widened our viewpoints and maximized productivity. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Furthermore, as I served as a Bank of America Student Leader, I was exposed to an even more open-minded ideology regarding intersectionality, as their diversity seminars strengthened my beliefs. At the national summit, I worked with student leaders from all kinds of different backgrounds and experiences. Despite certain setbacks, I persist in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Ever since observing the diverse student body of the University of Washington while walking past its cherry trees, I believe that my background as an underrepresented minority and experience with diversity in the workplace will ring in harmony with the campus mission.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

Emmanuel Korir is referred to as the next David Rudisha, the world-record holder for the 800m. His versatility is impressive; he is a winner of both 400 m and 800 m races. He Is an inspiration to runners including myself. I set a goal to run a forty-eight second 400m. To achieve this goal, I researched off-season training for runners and developed an independent exercise and supplement plan. My plan included three hard days of exercise with short jogs on the other four days. I rotated sprints and lifted weights while also ingesting creatine, protein, and beet powder to improve my performance. Pain was ever present even in the dirt-tasting beet powder, exhaustion became normal, and blisters remained on my feet. However, I never missed a run or work out during the heat, cold, and rain. Even though I did not achieve my goal, my commitment to excellence displayed an improvement in my running time. Grit forced me to wake every single day with a purpose regardless of the outcome. Emmanuel Korir is referred to as the next David Rudisha, the world-record holder for the 800m. His versatility is impressive; he is a winner of both 400 m and 800 m races. He Is an inspiration to runners including myself. I set a goal to run a forty-eight second 400m. To achieve this goal, I researched off-season training for runners and developed an independent exercise and supplement plan. My plan included three hard days of exercise with short jogs on the other four days. I rotated sprints and lifted weights while also ingesting creatine, protein, and beet powder to improve my performance. Pain was ever present even in the dirt-tasting beet powder, exhaustion became normal, and blisters remained on my feet. However, I never missed a run or work out during the heat, cold, and rain. Even though I did not achieve my goal, my commitment to excellence displayed an improvement in my running time. Grit forced me to wake every single day with a purpose regardless of the outcome. Emmanuel Korir is referred to as the next David Rudisha, the world-record holder for the 800m. His versatility is impressive; he is a winner of both 400 m and 800 m races. He Is an inspiration to runners including myself. I set a goal to run a forty-eight second 400m. To achieve this goal, I researched off-season training for runners and developed an independent exercise and supplement plan. My plan included three hard days of exercise with short jogs on the other four days. I rotated sprints and lifted weights while also ingesting creatine, protein, and beet powder to improve my performance. Pain was ever present even in the dirt-tasting beet powder, exhaustion became normal, and blisters remained on my feet. However, I never missed a run or work out during the heat, cold, and rain. Even though I did not achieve my goal, my commitment to excellence displayed an improvement in my running time. Grit forced me to wake every single day with a purpose regardless of the outcome.

Emmanuel Korir is referred to as the next David Rudisha, the world-record holder for the 800m. His versatility is impressive; he is a winner of both 400 m and 800 m races. He Is an inspiration to runners including myself. I set a goal to run a forty-eight second 400m. To achieve this goal, I researched off-season training for runners and developed an independent exercise and supplement plan. My plan included three hard days of exercise with short jogs on the other four days. I rotated sprints and lifted weights while also ingesting creatine, protein, and beet powder to improve my performance. Pain was ever present even in the dirt-tasting beet powder, exhaustion became normal, and blisters remained on my feet. However, I never missed a run or work out during the heat, cold, and rain. Even though I did not achieve my goal, my commitment to excellence displayed an improvement in my running time. Grit forced me to wake every single day with a purpose regardless of the outcome. Emmanuel Korir is referred to as the next David Rudisha, the world-record holder for the 800m. His versatility is impressive; he is a winner of both 400 m and 800 m races. He Is an inspiration to runners including myself. I set a goal to run a forty-eight second 400m. To achieve this goal, I researched off-season training for runners and developed an independent exercise and supplement plan. My plan included three hard days of exercise with short jogs on the other four days. I rotated sprints and lifted weights while also ingesting creatine, protein, and beet powder to improve my performance. Pain was ever present even in the dirt-tasting beet powder, exhaustion became normal, and blisters remained on my feet. However, I never missed a run or work out during the heat, cold, and rain. Even though I did not achieve my goal, my commitment to excellence displayed an improvement in my running time. Grit forced me to wake every single day with a purpose regardless of the outcome. Emmanuel Korir is referred to as the next David Rudisha, the world-record holder for the 800m. His versatility is impressive; he is a winner of both 400 m and 800 m races. He Is an inspiration to runners including myself. I set a goal to run a forty-eight second 400m. To achieve this goal, I researched off-season training for runners and developed an independent exercise and supplement plan. My plan included three hard days of exercise with short jogs on the other four days. I rotated sprints and lifted weights while also ingesting creatine, protein, and beet powder to improve my performance. Pain was ever present even in the dirt-tasting beet powder, exhaustion became normal, and blisters remained on my feet. However, I never missed a run or work out during the heat, cold, and rain. Even though I did not achieve my goal, my commitment to excellence displayed an improvement in my running time. Grit forced me to wake every single day with a purpose regardless of the outcome.

Emmanuel Korir is referred to as the next David Rudisha, the world-record holder for the 800m. His versatility is impressive; he is a winner of both 400 m and 800 m races. He Is an inspiration to runners including myself. I set a goal to run a forty-eight second 400m. To achieve this goal, I researched off-season training for runners and developed an independent exercise and supplement plan. My plan included three hard days of exercise with short jogs on the other four days. I rotated sprints and lifted weights while also ingesting creatine, protein, and beet powder to improve my performance. Pain was ever present even in the dirt-tasting beet powder, exhaustion became normal, and blisters remained on my feet. However, I never missed a run or work out during the heat, cold, and rain. Even though I did not achieve my goal, my commitment to excellence displayed an improvement in my running time. Grit forced me to wake every single day with a purpose regardless of the outcome. Emmanuel Korir is referred to as the next David Rudisha, the world-record holder for the 800m. His versatility is impressive; he is a winner of both 400 m and 800 m races. He Is an inspiration to runners including myself. I set a goal to run a forty-eight second 400m. To achieve this goal, I researched off-season training for runners and developed an independent exercise and supplement plan. My plan included three hard days of exercise with short jogs on the other four days. I rotated sprints and lifted weights while also ingesting creatine, protein, and beet powder to improve my performance. Pain was ever present even in the dirt-tasting beet powder, exhaustion became normal, and blisters remained on my feet. However, I never missed a run or work out during the heat, cold, and rain. Even though I did not achieve my goal, my commitment to excellence displayed an improvement in my running time. Grit forced me to wake every single day with a purpose regardless of the outcome. Emmanuel Korir is referred to as the next David Rudisha, the world-record holder for the 800m. His versatility is impressive; he is a winner of both 400 m and 800 m races. He Is an inspiration to runners including myself. I set a goal to run a forty-eight second 400m. To achieve this goal, I researched off-season training for runners and developed an independent exercise and supplement plan. My plan included three hard days of exercise with short jogs on the other four days. I rotated sprints and lifted weights while also ingesting creatine, protein, and beet powder to improve my performance. Pain was ever present even in the dirt-tasting beet powder, exhaustion became normal, and blisters remained on my feet. However, I never missed a run or work out during the heat, cold, and rain. Even though I did not achieve my goal, my commitment to excellence displayed an improvement in my running time. Grit forced me to wake every single day with a purpose regardless of the outcome.

This nonprofit (which brings Music Therapy to children with Autism) not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to grow. I developed as a person and changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not satisfy me, though; it made me more resolute to contribute to my cause. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

Observing a therapy session, I noticed how children with autism spectrum disorder behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announcing the end of their sessions. Because they love music and benefit from it, the children reacted negatively to the end of their treatment. I had an idea: what if I could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit to support my mission. I trained advanced student musicians from various groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted with their children’s improved attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing a diversity of cultures and ability. Brainstorming for effectiveness and marketing enhanced my creativity and critical thinking. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children in this program selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love and benefit from music, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today, Newsbreak, and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming ways to make every therapy session more effective. My work with MusicAAA developed many of my strongest character traits. I wielded diplomacy, for example, by connecting students from different cultures and abilities and creating compromises for students in difficult situations. Additionally, my diplomatic character was crucial in creating professional connections with heads of Autism centers and asking to be featured in newspapers. Conscientiousness and empathy for my non-neurotypical students has been crucial to my work, allowing me to relate to the children and form supportive relationships with my student musicians. I also utilized my conscientiousness to create a diverse, inclusive work environment. By empathizing with the perspectives of my members from around the world, I saw many different ways of thinking and incorporated them all into my own work. Finally, I believe that my work with my nonprofit demonstrates my diligence. I relied on my diligence to make judgments on behalf of MusicAAA to enhance results and meet objectives regarding finance, human resources, and advertisements. In order to evaluate an issue or problem and find a solution, I called upon my attention to detail, decision-making, and researching abilities. Without these traits, MusicAAA would be nowhere close to what it is today. Due to this experience with MusicAAA, I developed immensely as a person, and even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my nonprofit. This journey did not make me satisfied, though; it made me more resolute.

Observing a therapy session, I noticed how children with autism spectrum disorder behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announcing the end of their sessions. Because they love music and benefit from it, the children reacted negatively to the end of their treatment. I had an idea: what if I could help autistic children through music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit to support my mission. I trained advanced student musicians from various groups to manage sessions with autistic children. The children selected either the drums, the xylophones, the piano, or the trumpet. Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted with their children’s improved attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing a diversity of cultures and ability. Brainstorming for effectiveness and marketing enhanced my creativity and critical thinking. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute. Music therapy introduced me to the ways in which music relates to disciplines like philosophy, psychology, and anthropology. I hope to engage in the study of musicology to gain a better grasp on why and how people produce music. This research will allow my music therapy sessions to improve. By studying music through an academic, interdisciplinary lens, I aim to explore its curative abilities and provide them to those in need. In college, I will pursue a degree in music as an undergraduate as well as a graduate student. While I am earning these degrees, my goal is to apply the knowledge I have gained in my college curriculum to my nonprofit, persisting in using my passion as a tool to aid disadvantaged Autistic children from underrepresented groups in the community. Upon the completion of my graduate degrees, I plan on serving as a professor of music, spreading my mission to those I teach to ensure my dream continues through others. Ultimately, I hope to expand my nonprofit and reach as many students as possible. Throughout all cultures, music intertwines history, life, and meaning, forcing people to view music through different lenses. When Mozart composed his music centuries ago, his intention was entertainment for the wealthy; therefore, he never expected it to speak to Autistic children. With music as its language, MusicAAA accomplishes this task extremely well, filling children’s life with harmony.

As I was observing a therapy session, I noticed how many patients—children with varying diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder—behaved disparately. One child screamed constantly while another suddenly acted aggressively. Why? Both reacted to the same stimulus: their music therapist announced the end of their session. Because they love music and benefited from it, the children coped uniquely with the end of their session. An idea suddenly came to me: what if I personally could help autistic children through my own music therapy? I acted on this thought, creating a global non-profit, MusicAAA, with hundreds of members supporting my mission. I enabled the training of advanced student musicians from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and geographic groups to manage sessions with autistic children.Sharing my vision, supporters made my dream into a reality. Costco, Peace First, and Oriental Trading funded my instrument donation program; Florida Today and Hometown News published an article featuring my non-profit, a health foundation provided advisors, and professors and principals advertised my organization. Parents were delighted in the improvement of their children’s attention, behavior, communication, and socialization. This organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In response to the demand, classes were limited to ten hourly lessons per child weekly. This program not only assisted children, but it also allowed me the opportunity to gain friends from around the world. Through my experience, my mind and my heart have opened, embracing diversity of cultures and ability. My creativity and critical thinking rose to the next level through brainstorming how to make my sessions more effective and marketing this non-profit. Due to this experience, I even changed my educational and career goals to align with the mission of my non-profit. This journey did not make me satisfied; it made me more resolute.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. Our organization was even nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.

I am amazed by the human body’s capabilities: Bruce Lee performed two hundred consecutive push ups using only his thumb and index finger. I pursued learning how to perform a single two-finger push up. To train, I progressed from two-hand push ups to one-hand push ups on an inclined surface. After a few months of focusing on this skill, I improved and completed two-finger push ups with my feet wide apart. For further advancement, I depended upon my perseverance. Two months later, I finally executed one two-finger push up. I’ve applied the discipline I learned from this physical goal to a more ambitious endeavor: providing music therapy to neurodivergent children through my non-profit organization. At first, I struggled to locate advanced student musicians who could pass my selective application process and were willing to join the organization. Volunteers had to be talented musicians. Additional requirements included experience dealing with special-needs children; patience, kindness, and understanding were essential character traits. Because of the time commitment, participants needed to be strong students who could manage their time and tasks independently. Finally, letters of recommendation were necessary for evidence of these many virtues. I dedicated myself to assiduously advertising this position, eventually receiving much interest. The selection process followed soon after; I strictly enforced my requirements to confirm volunteers’ acceptances. I lost volunteers along the way, but I persisted in upholding my high standards. Our organization even received a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination. From these experiences I refined my discipline in both the physical and mental realms.