My name is Layla Watson, and I am a rising college freshman with dreams that stretch beyond the horizon. I plan to become a singer, songwriter, performer, entrepreneur, and actress. My goal is to impact the world through entertainment and my voice. I believe that stories told through music and performance can inspire change and bring people together. Music can be transparent and personal and we all need a friend sometimes that understands what we’re going through and music can be that friend. This is why I am passionate about pursuing a career in these fields. I’m applying to colleges like North Carolina A&T State University, Belmont University, Berklee College of Music, The Juilliard School, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. I am considering majors in Business Economics, Performing Arts, Music, or Criminal Justice. Each of these areas offers a unique way to explore my interests and develop my skills. The Bright Lights Scholarship will be a crucial step in my journey. It will help me get the education I need to learn about music and the music business. I want to understand the industry from all angles, not just as a performer but also as an entrepreneur. This scholarship will allow me to focus on my studies, participate in workshops, and gain the knowledge necessary to navigate the complex world of entertainment. As a Black woman, I am aware of the challenges that come with pursuing a career in these fields. However, I am determined to push past these barriers and make a difference. I want to create music and performances that reflect diverse stories and experiences. Representation matters, and I hope to inspire others who look like me to follow their dreams. My high school GPA of 3.8 reflects my dedication and hard work. I am committed to maintaining this level of excellence in college. I believe that with the right education and support, I can achieve my goals. This scholarship will not only ease the financial burden of college but also allow me to invest in my future. In conclusion, my plans for the future are ambitious, but I am ready to face the challenges ahead. I want to use my talents to entertain, inspire, and bring about positive change. The Bright Lights Scholarship will be an invaluable resource in helping me reach these goals. With your support, I can gain the education and skills needed to turn my dreams into reality and make a lasting impact on the world. Thank you for considering my application.

I have always felt deeply connected to the arts—whether it’s visual art, dancing, music, or theater. My dream is to become a performing artist, traveling the world to inspire and encourage people through my work. Music has always been a source of inspiration for me, and I am determined to give back double what I’ve received from it. My goal is to create lyrics that people can relate to, to be confident in who I am and what my music represents, to be a godly example, and to explore new possibilities within my art. One of the most powerful moments in my life was when I performed at my church. I had been scheduled to lead a song, but I wasn’t completely confident in knowing the lyrics or how I sounded. I was nervous, unsure if I could deliver the way I wanted to. So I hoped and prayed that everything would go well and that the Lord would use me in that moment. To my surprise, after the service, people began coming up to me, sharing how encouraged they were by seeing me minister to the congregation. They told me how confident I seemed and how their children looked up to me. It was incredible because just before that moment, I had been so scared to sing, fearing judgment and criticism. But I pushed through those doubts and gave it my all—and it turned out better than I could have imagined. That experience taught me that when you give your all, people notice and are inspired by your courage. In music, the most popular songs are those that resonate deeply with listeners, whether through the melody or the lyrics. It’s crucial that when you're in your creative space, you allow yourself to be vulnerable because that’s how you truly connect with people. By doing this, I aim to create a sense of wonder, spark awareness, and give people the space to reflect on their own emotions. Music has the power to bring people together, whether through a shared love of a song or the emotions it evokes. Imagine meeting your best friend because of a mutual connection with a SZA track—that’s the kind of impact I want my music to have. I’ve always dreamed of being an artist who helps people. Of course, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. But through those bumps in the road, I’ve learned that I can’t just sing a song to sing it or perform just to perform. It’s so much more than that. People want to experience a genuine performance, one that’s filled with emotion, feeling, desire, passion, and talent. Looking ahead, I see my music evolving into a platform that not only entertains but also educates and unites people from different cultures and backgrounds. I plan to create projects that address social issues, uplift "insignificant" voices, and foster a sense of community among my listeners. My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and encourage people. With powerful lyrics, a voice fueled by passion, and the gift from God to sing, I hope to create music that encourages people—whether they’re going through hard times, celebrating happy moments, or feeling sad. Through my art, I hope to contribute to making the world a better place.

Music is more than just a passion for me; it is the best way to express who I truly am. Throughout most of my life, I struggled to fit in, but music set me apart in a positive way. It has made me focused, stronger, and more confident. Attending a performing arts high school, which is unconventional, has been an empowering experience because they value my talent. This validation boosts my confidence daily. At my school, I am not an outcast; I am recognized as someone with genuine talent. They appreciate me for who I am, with and without my musical gifts. My passion for music is unwavering because it shapes my identity. There have been countless times when I've sat in the studio feeling uninspired, yet I push through and create music anyway. Each time, the process of seeing a song come together from seemingly nothing into a beautiful composition reignites my passion. Hearing every instrument, vocalist, and drum part come together is a magical experience that deepens my love for music. Academically, I've faced challenges, particularly in subjects like English and History. Despite these struggles, excelling in music classes—where I consistently earned top grades—boosted my self-confidence. Attending an art school can be tough since everyone there is not only a talented musician or artist but also academically brilliant. Comparing myself to them was daunting, especially when they excelled effortlessly in all subjects. This made me doubt my abilities, but I realized that the impact of music cannot be measured by grades. While I may not have straight A's, my performances have been known to touch people emotionally and spiritually. Music has given me confidence, not only in my musical abilities but in my academic journey as well. Looking ahead, my goal is to become a world-renowned performer, singer, and songwriter. I have a deep desire to touch the hearts of people with my music. In a world filled with music that sometimes leads us astray, I aim to inspire with my voice, lyrics, and personality. I believe that while I am not divine, God has shown me that I am a vessel. When I am willing and obedient, He uses me to make a difference, just as He has done before. In conclusion, music is not just a part of my life; it is the essence of who I am. It has transformed my challenges into strengths and my doubts into confidence. Through music, I have found my voice and my purpose. This scholarship will not only support my educational journey but also help me continue to inspire and uplift others through my music. I am committed to using my talents to make a positive impact on the world, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my passion further.

If money were not an issue, I would revolutionize social media. The overwhelming number of trends and hot topics can be difficult to keep up with. In middle school, I struggled to fit in until I realized I wasn’t meant to conform. Participating in TikTok trends, bragging on Snapchat, and posting on Instagram earned me social points but did not add value to who I was. The pressure to fit in and the constant questioning of one's character can be overwhelming. These platforms often influence us more than they should. Therefore, I would use my resources to change the perception of social media, transforming it from being seen as an "addiction" or "drug" for young people into a safe space for genuine communication through funny, relatable, and enjoyable content. Since 2020, social media has become a career for many more people, which is remarkable. However, the pressure to sacrifice personal integrity for content and views is unfair. I would create a new app similar to Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube but without the pressures that diminish self-worth. My app would include features to filter, delete, or report negative posts and videos to protect users' mental well-being. Reports would assess the positivity and impact of posts. For instance, if my friend Petra posted a video about her anxiety and how she copes, we would approve it for its meaningful content. Conversely, if she posted about yelling at a sales clerk for giving her the wrong Louis Vuitton bag, the content would be deleted. Such posts can create insecurities, making viewers dissatisfied with their own lives. My app would foster a healthier social media environment, prioritizing meaningful content and encouraging genuine expression without the negative pressures found on current platforms. By promoting positivity and well-being, my app would transform social media. Pursuing a career as a musician and performer aligns with my goal of helping and inspiring others. Having endured bullying in middle school, I am committed to ensuring that others do not face similar hardships. This commitment fuels my passion for singing uplifting songs and developing an app to encourage people. Both endeavors aim to foster happiness and positivity. The title "Stranger in a Strange Land" describes how I often feel like an alien in this world. I now know that my purpose is to stand out and lead. Growing up, I constantly battled with the desire to conform. I discovered that my uniqueness is my strength. Embracing my individuality has empowered me to lead with confidence. True leadership isn’t about following the crowd but about guiding others with authenticity and integrity.

My passion for music runs deep, a legacy passed down from my father, who recorded, released, and performed with various artists in his youth. My parents always encouraged me to pursue what I love, urging me to do it to the best of my ability. They recognized and supported my gift for music, striving to enroll me in every vocal, dance, and theater program I showed interest in. Growing up in a religious family and attending church, my passion for music was nurtured. Watching choirs, youth groups, and praise teams sing with all their heart profoundly moved me. Seeing peers sing fearlessly inspired me to pursue music as a career and college path. I want to encourage others with my voice and songs, just as others did for me. Social media, church performances, and school events featured kids my age singing beautifully, motivating me to share my gifts. I told my parents about my desire to sing, and a few Sundays later, I had my first solo. I was thrilled and confident I would impress everyone with my voice. However, fear overwhelmed me, and I ended up crying on stage. This moment taught me a valuable lesson about vulnerability and the power of trust. Over time, I overcame my fear, shifting my reliance from my abilities to trusting God to use my gift. Since then, my voice has ministered to my school, family, friends, and various churches. One particular performance stands out: I was nervous about singing in front of my church because I wasn’t comfortable with the song or the lyrics. Remembering the advice to trust in God, I prayed for guidance and surrendered my anxiety. At that moment, He did not disappoint, and I delivered a heartfelt performance. Music is not just a passion for me; it’s a calling. It has shaped my life and my faith, and I am committed to using my voice to inspire and uplift others. Pursuing music in college is the next step in fulfilling this purpose, and I am eager to continue this journey. Desire means a feeling of wanting something or wishing for it to happen. During grade school, you are still learning basic things, and desires and interests start to develop. It's important to discover these things now to develop the gift. Through the various bad things that happen in this world most people cope with music and the amount of talented and creative people that could do so would help. I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason and desires and interests all ultimately lead to passion. In applying for this scholarship, I see not just an opportunity for financial assistance but a chance to further my musical journey, hone my craft, and amplify my voice's impact. With your support, I am confident that I can continue to pursue my passion for music with purpose and conviction, spreading joy and hope wherever my songs may be heard.

From the young age of three, music has been more than just a passion for me—it's been a calling, a divine gift that I've felt compelled to share with the world. I vividly remember my first performance at church in front of a congregation of over a thousand souls. Despite my young age, nerves failed to grip me; instead, confidence surged through my veins. I sang with a fervor that surprised even my parents, reveling in the applause, the eyes fixed on me, and the ability to uplift spirits and transform atmospheres. Yet, alongside music, another force has shaped my passion—my faith in God. Introduced to me by my parents, my connection with Him deepened over time, particularly as I reflected on the protection and guidance he bestowed upon me. In my sophomore year of high school, I realized I was changing for the worse and I was lucky to have family around me to tell me about myself. This allowed me to realize that God has been protecting me even before I realized it. Though my parents had a relationship with him I needed one just for me. God became my safe place and I started to trust him more. During the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, I truly grasped the weight of responsibility. My parents entrusted me with managing my studies remotely, I approached this task not merely to impress my parents but with a profound sense of joy in accomplishing each assignment, and attending every virtual class diligently. This period reinforced in me the importance of integrity, instilling a commitment to follow through on my word and embrace the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake. In the crucible of my sophomore year, I faced a defining moment that tested both my musical passion and faith. Despite feeling out of my comfort zone, I chose to perform a Christian song at a school event, knowing full well the diverse beliefs of my peers. The nerves were palpable, but as I stepped onto the stage, I relinquished control to a higher power, seeking strength in prayer. What ensued was a revelation—not just for me, but for the entire school community. The song, though initially daunting, resonated deeply, transcending religious boundaries to touch hearts and minds. It was a turning point, a lesson in resilience, and a testament to the transformative power of music and faith combined. After that performance, I found myself liberated from the shackles of external validation, and focused instead on being a beacon of positivity and kindness. Walking the school corridors, I was no longer just praised for my vocal prowess; rather, I was thanked for the inspiration and encouragement I imparted. Through God's grace, I discovered that music is not just about sounding good; it's about uplifting souls and spreading hope—a realization that fuels my aspirations as a musician and a person of faith. In conclusion, my journey has been shaped by an unwavering passion for music, God, and personal growth. Each challenge has been an opportunity for me to reaffirm my commitment to these passions, transcend limitations, and make a lasting impact on those around me. As I embark on the next chapter of my life, I do so with a heart full of gratitude, a spirit buoyed by faith, and a melody that resonates with the promise of endless possibilities.

My mother is incredible because of her kindness, selflessness, and versatility. She has been through so much like when her parents got divorced. Nevertheless, the divorce only made her stronger because of the amazing connection she had with her parents. Though it wasn’t easy to see them fight so often she was always aware of how much they loved her and a divorce was never gonna change that. In my personal opinion, my mom is the strongest woman I know because whatever situation she goes through she is always positive. There was a time in her life when everything that you could think of was going wrong. The bills were due, the car wouldn’t start, the bank was holding her money and through all that, she was still able to get me and my brother new clothes for school, buy groceries, and keep a positive attitude. When it comes to sacrificing for her kids she will do anything for us in a heartbeat. There were times when my parents struggled financially and in their marriage, but she never let that affect us. She always ensures us that we are cared for and need for nothing. She is so unselfish. To the point where she’ll be going through a tough time and still ask you about your day and just push her problems aside. She has taught me to know my purpose, stand up for myself, and be mindful of who I am. And because of that she has helped me realize my purpose in this life which is singing. I've been singing since I was three. Every day since then, she has encouraged me, saying that if I want it bad enough I have to work for it. So every spare time I have I’m making and learning music. She’s my inspiration because of how much she sacrifices and believes in me. 2 years ago she encouraged me to apply to a performing arts high school that I didn’t think I was going to get into but I did. And now 3 years in as a junior I have been able to perform about 20 times for my school and it has really helped me grow as a person and as a singer and that’s all thanks to my mom! I've been going to church for years, and my parents, my mom especially has helped me develop a relationship with God and understand that my relationship with God isn't about them but about God and me. My parents always ensured that my brother and I represented a Christian household and obeyed their rules. Because of this I have become closer to God and have created my own personal relationship with him. Going to church helped me find my identity and my love for music and that is all partly thanks to my mom for taking us to church and always teaching us how to navigate life with God. In conclusion, my mom is one of the most amazing, hard working, and caring people in the entire world. She has taught me things that I will never forget and I can’t thank her enough. Because of her I want to chase my dreams so I can do what I love while taking care of the people I love. She is my inspiration and role model everyday because of the way she lives her life while caring and helping the people she loves.