About one in eight people worldwide experience diagnosed mental health disorders. Nearly 50% begin by age fourteen, and 75% begin by age twenty-four. Over 60% of college students report experiencing overwhelming anxiety, and roughly 40% say it was difficult to function in any way. Mental health concerns are reported to be one of the top reasons college students seek counseling during their college career, and more than half of people experiencing these issues do not seek treatment or help. Mental health is a serious issue, and many people have become exceptionally skilled at hiding their depression. Furthermore, these statistics don’t include those whose difficulties go unnoticed. Six years ago, my family moved across the country. While this should have been an exciting time, it quickly turned into an emotional nightmare. I had to leave all of my extended family behind, all of the friendships I had formed, everything familiar to me. The house my family moved into was a poorly flipped house. From the moment we stepped into the place that should have felt like home, endless issues emerged. These various, ongoing problems would continue over the next five years. As a result, with no friends, activities, and a distracted family, I entered the loneliest phase of my life. I slipped into depression. It started with a hatred for myself, and turned into self-harm and many unwanted ideas and thoughts. For years I hid my inner turmoil, but the more I hid behind a curtain, the more problems I dealt with. Panic attacks became regular, scars became more seemingly permanent. Then one day, my mother snuck into my room and read my personal journal and deeply shook my world and trust. Now I had even more of a desire to not only outwardly hide my pain, but inwardly avoid it too by having no outlet for my feelings. It was all a spiral downward, and I felt trapped with no escape. One day, out of boredom, I decided to teach myself piano. Little did I know that a seemingly simple keyboard instrument would change my life. I quickly realized how attuned to sound I was, and I discovered a beautifully sad way to process my emotions. Music became the outlet for all of my innermost feelings, an outlet for expressing myself in a way that I had never been able to do previously. I began studying composers and their lives, and how music was their outlet as well. Looking around me, everyone else in the world seemed so content and happy. Now I realize that I certainly have never been alone in my struggles, but just like me, many people have become exceptional at masking their turmoil. If I had known that even a year ago, I would have felt much less alone. My depression and anxiety have shaped me into the person I am today. In realizing how impactful music is in my own life, I discovered a passion of mine. I’m attending Lee University to double major in a B.A. Music Composition emphasis and a B.S. in Music Technology. Additionally, I plan to minor in psychology. The composition emphasis allows me to continue addressing and writing music for self-expression in a way for others to relate to and understand. Music technology allows me to more efficiently produce my own music, and also aid other musicians in writing and producing their own works. After receiving my bachelors, I plan to use my psychology minor to attend a graduate school for a masters in music therapy. My ultimate dream is to give people the same outlet for their struggles that I have, utilizing music. Music therapy would be the perfect way for me to do so. Other than discovering my hidden dream career path, my mental struggles have grown my understanding of relationships and the world as a whole. I know what it’s like to keep things hidden and buried for years at a time, and how easy (yet hard) it is to mask it all. I never want anybody to experience the inner pain that I went through, but I recognize how common of a struggle it really is. I’ve made it a goal of mine to help be an outlet for those people, inside and outside of music. I desire for everyone to feel seen, because if I had felt seen, I wouldn’t have felt so utterly alone. A kind word even goes a long way. My friends tell me that if they’re having a bad day, they simply look at me or think of me, and they immediately can’t help but smile. My goal is to bring joy and laughs to others, to be a ray of sunshine in the lives of those living in thunder clouds. I also want to cry and sorrow beside other people, to let them know that I know what it feels like, to let them know that I’m there for them… and to let them know that they are far from alone.

Surprisingly, as a first-generation student, I’ve been discouraged from college my whole life. I’ve been told college is “a waste of time and money” and “useless for your career.” My family has encouraged me to pursue business if I were to insist on attending college. Yet here I am, pursuing a bachelor’s double major in music composition and music technology starting in the fall of 2026. Academics have always held high importance in my life, and I have worked exceptionally hard to maintain excellent grades, achieve a high ACT score, dual-enroll at a university during my last two years of high school, and more. I was lucky enough to receive special permission to dual-enroll in the university’s school of music. I hope to prove to my family that college is a worthwhile investment, and I hope to make both past and present generations of my family proud of their product… me! I’ve been able to overcome numerous challenges throughout my life thus far. These include parents who separated a couple of times (and are now in the process of divorce), depression, anxiety, moving across the U.S., self-harm, and much discouragement. I’ve always been more susceptible to stress disorders, and I have a strong tendency to block any negative emotions I experience from being felt. However, I’ve discovered two key traits I have: recognition and determination, both of which have carried me through the challenges and obstacles throughout high school and will lead to success in college. I’m attending Lee University this fall and double majoring. One day, I hope to see famous pianists performing my original music (B.A. in music composition), and I have a strong desire to aid other musicians in recording and producing their own original music (B.S. in music technology). I’m also strongly considering a minor in psychology. This minor would help enable me to pursue a graduate degree in music therapy, with which I would be able to help those in need through music. Volunteering and community service have proven to be important parts of my life, and I want to continue serving my community through music. This scholarship would, indeed, make my goals far more reachable. I receive no help from family or friends in funding my education, and I’ve worked very hard to attempt avoiding debt in college. All of my savings are being put into this dream of mine, and this scholarship would make my educational and career goals much more possible. More of my savings could be put into my life and career after college, or towards my dreams for graduate school. College is a financial burden, and to have that burden lifted would enable me to focus more on my academics, rather than stressing over finances. Being a first-generation student means overcoming the odds, overcoming the obstacles, proving myself to others, and making history. I know I can do just that and make my family proud.

There’s a quote I live by that says, “Keep your face always toward the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you,” Walt Whitman. During dark, tough times in life, we must keep our eyes on the positives. In doing so, we not only encourage those around us but also build our own perseverance and identity. At 3 am, I wake up inspired and start songwriting on the spur of the moment. Music is my passion, a huge part of who I am. I first decided to pursue music as my career path when I began teaching myself to play the guitar. My dad used to play guitar, but it had been sitting untouched for years. One day, after talking to a friend who played, I decided to try learning it. The moment I started playing chords, I realized that music wasn’t just a thing I liked to do. I didn’t just enjoy playing piano or writing lyrics. Actually, I was fascinated by every instrument and every aspect of music. Music is the one thing that never leaves my side in times of trouble. Every emotion can be expressed musically, and it is therapy for the soul. I have a desire to provide that same feeling I get from music to others, because it is truly healing. I hope to pursue a degree in music composition with a double major in music technology. Eventually, I plan to obtain a degree in music therapy. This degree may not seem especially impactful at first glance. However, I believe otherwise. A degree in music composition would give me the tools to compose exceptional music. Eventually, I plan to use those composition skills in music therapy. The therapeutic aspects of music are significant. It has been proven to manage various conditions such as depression, anxiety, and even neurological disorders. Music has also been proven to enhance cognitive function. In many instances, elders with dementia have been able to sit down at a piano and play perfectly. Their memory may be fading, but music stays with them. Music can also help motor function, even when someone isn’t actively playing. This is because hearing the rhythm of music activates the motor cortex, explaining why we feel compelled to dance to music. I deserve this scholarship because of my determination and high standards. As a first-generation university student, I have a strong desire to make my family proud. I refuse to end a semester knowing that I “could’ve done better.” I’m determined to put forth my best effort in all that I pursue, and I’m open to criticism. I look for people to criticize me so that I can grow into a better person academically and relationally. Ending high school, I’ve completed a full year of university through dual enrollment. I’ve maintained a high GPA throughout high school, between 3.9 and 4.0. In the midst of challenges (parents separating, anxiety disorders, physical conditions, etc), I never let up. I use tough times to motivate myself and discover my identity, refusing to give up despite the obstacles.

As a first-generation college student, the importance of education is stressed in my family. I, along with my brother, will be the first students to graduate from college in generations. I will be the first to graduate with a bachelor’s degree from a university. Education is especially important to me. I’ve maintained a high GPA (between 4.0 and 3.9) and achieved high ACT scores. Additionally, for my last two years of high school, I’ve taken all of my classes at a university. I am graduating from high school with a full year of university already finished. I plan on double-majoring in music composition and music technology this coming fall. I’ve taken university classes in music theory, aural skills, music technology, English, science, math, history, and more. Why do I value education so much? Because it is foundational for the career I want to pursue, and because I have something to prove. I have something to prove to my family, and to myself. Interestingly, while the importance of education has been stressed throughout my high school years, my parents aren’t sold on the idea of college. As a result, I’ve felt immense pressure in deciding what career to pursue. If I plan on going to university, it must be for a high-earning degree. However, it’s more important to me to chase after my dreams than to become wealthy. Of course, I want to “do well,” and I plan on doing so! But first and foremost, I hold a higher value for my dreams than money. I hope to pursue a degree in music composition with a double major in music technology. This degree may not seem especially impactful at first glance. However, I believe otherwise. A degree in music composition would equip me to compose exceptional music. Eventually, I plan to use those composition skills (along with my music technology knowledge) in music therapy. The therapeutic aspects of music are significant. It has been proven to manage various conditions such as depression, anxiety, and even neurological disorders. Music has also been proven to enhance cognitive function. In many instances, elders with dementia have been able to sit down at a piano and play perfectly. Their memory may be fading, but music stays with them. Music can also help motor function, even when someone isn’t actively playing. This is because hearing the rhythm of music activates the motor cortex, explaining why we feel compelled to dance to music. I know what it’s like to go through dark times in life. My parents have struggled in their marriage for as long as I can remember, going through separations and, in the near future, a divorce. I’ve dealt with complete loneliness in life when my family moved across states, and I’ve had struggles with self-harm since I was seven years old. In feeling utterly alone, I’ve still had one friend by my side, and that friend has always been music. My desire and hope for my future is to use my talents for those who need it most. I don’t need to leave a huge legacy behind; however, I want to be remembered for my determination and ability to overcome challenges while helping others. I aim to create entirely original music in a world that is increasingly driven by AI. After facing many “no's,” I’m focused on transforming them into firm “yes's”. I know I have the grit to succeed in this tough industry, and I’m committed to pursuing my passion for music despite the obstacles.

Everyone has that “thing” that makes them different from anyone else. I’ve come to love and appreciate those things about people, because those aspects of us make everyone beautifully unique. I’m actually both left-handed and right-handed, which I’ve found makes me stand out in a variety of ways! I typically print with my right hand, but I’m left-handed dominant on the piano. Additionally, I write differently from most people. While printing the letter “s,” people typically start at the top of the letter and end at the bottom. However, I do the opposite! I start at the bottom of the letter and write upwards. Most of the English alphabet I write is opposite to the “typical” way. Interestingly, more than anything else, I’ve found that I stand out because of my laugh and smile. There's a quiet intentionality behind it, though. My favorite quote by Walt Whitman says, “Keep your face always towards the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you.” I take this quote to heart, and I’ve made it my priority to bring that sunshine into other people’s lives. I've made it my personal mission to bring warmth to those around me. That being said, I laugh and smile… a LOT. I never truly considered this a way that I “stood out,” but it is. In fact, the more I grow up, the more I’m told how much I laugh and smile. I’ve even had friends tell me that when they’re in a down emotional state, they simply think of me and smile. I’m proud that I stand out in this way, because it means I’m bringing joy into the lives of my friends and family. While my overall joy is mostly a positive aspect of my personality, I’ve actually been talked down to because of it. It’s sometimes automatically assumed that I’m not serious enough or mature enough to have deep discussions and conversations. At my job, I’ve had customers grumble and tell me that I smile too much. I find this interesting as someone who, up until this point, has only viewed a smile as a good thing. I’ve discovered that in their own misery, society often doesn’t want to see a joyful smile or laugh. However, I don’t let that bring me down. I continue to spread joy the best way that I know how, with a simple smile and laugh. In the end, what makes me different isn't any single quirk — it's the way I choose to show up. I lead with joy, even when the world pushes back against it. Life is too short to live hiding behind a curtain. I hope to keep discovering who I am, and to carry my smile into every room I enter, because the world could always use a little more light.

At 3 am, I wake up inspired and start songwriting on the spur of the moment. Music is my passion, a huge part of who I am. I first decided to pursue music as my career path when I began teaching myself to play the guitar. My dad used to play guitar, but it had been sitting untouched for years. One day, after talking to a friend who played, I decided to try learning it. The moment I started playing chords, I realized that music wasn’t just a thing I liked to do. I didn’t just enjoy playing piano or writing lyrics. Actually, I was fascinated by every instrument and every aspect of music. Music is the one thing that never leaves my side in times of trouble. Every emotion can be expressed musically, and it is therapy for the soul. I have a desire to provide that same feeling I get from music to others, because it is truly healing. I’m self-taught in piano, guitar, and trombone, and I enjoy singing as well. I’ve been teaching myself piano since I was quite little, with my passion for it only growing over the years. Last year, I began taking lessons with my current piano teacher. This was soon after I realized my deep passion and fascination for music. Within six months, I learned all the scales, a variety of arpeggios, and three major works of music, among other techniques. I then auditioned for my university’s school of music and received full acceptance with only six months of lessons. Additionally, before receiving this official acceptance, I began dual-enrolling in the school of music as a high school student. Previously, I dual-enrolled in only general education courses. I will have one year of university completed for a musical degree before I start as a freshman. I took courses such as music theory, aural skills, class piano, audio and notational software, among others. As a freshman, I will be taking level three music classes. All of this to say, I’m determined, ambitious, set high standards for myself, and have many dreams and goals. I hope to pursue a degree in music composition with a double major in music technology. This degree may not seem especially impactful at first glance. However, I believe otherwise. A degree in music composition would equip me to compose exceptional music. Eventually, I plan to use those composition skills in music therapy. The therapeutic aspects of music are significant. It has been proven to manage various conditions such as depression, anxiety, and even neurological disorders. Music has also been proven to enhance cognitive function. In many instances, elders with dementia have been able to sit down at a piano and play perfectly. Their memory may be fading, but music stays with them. Music can also help motor function, even when someone isn’t actively playing. This is because hearing the rhythm of music activates the motor cortex, explaining why we feel compelled to dance to music. I know what it’s like to go through dark times in life. My parents have struggled in their marriage for as long as I can remember, going through separations and will soon divorce. I’ve dealt with loneliness in life when my family moved away, and I’ve had struggles with self-harm since I was very young. In feeling utterly alone, I’ve had one friend by my side…music. This is where my desire to pursue music therapy originates. My desire and hope for my future is to use my talents for those who need it most.

I sit at the piano, playing the same progression of notes for hours until it’s just right. I’ll be strumming on my guitar, determined to play through the pain of tender fingertips. At 3 am, I wake up inspired and start songwriting on the spur of the moment. Music is my passion, a huge part of who I am. I first decided to pursue music as my career path when I began teaching myself to play the guitar. My dad used to play guitar, but it had been sitting untouched for years. One day, after talking to a friend who played, I decided to try learning it. The moment I started playing chords, I realized that music wasn’t just a thing I liked to do. I didn’t just enjoy playing piano or writing lyrics. Actually, I was fascinated by every instrument and every aspect of music. Music is the one thing that never leaves my side in times of trouble. Every emotion can be expressed musically, and it is therapy for the soul. I have a desire to share the same feeling I get from music with others, because it is truly healing. I hope to pursue a degree in music composition with a double major in music technology. This degree may not seem especially impactful at first glance. However, I believe otherwise. A degree in music composition would equip me to compose exceptional music. Eventually, I plan to use those composition skills in music therapy. The therapeutic aspects of music are significant. It has been proven to manage various conditions such as depression, anxiety, and even neurological disorders. Music has also been proven to enhance cognitive function. In many instances, elders with dementia have been able to sit down at a piano and play perfectly. Their memory may be fading, but music stays with them. Music can also help motor function, even when someone isn’t actively playing. This is because hearing the rhythm of music activates the motor cortex, explaining why we feel compelled to dance to music. I know what it’s like to go through dark times in life. My parents have struggled in their marriage for as long as I can remember, going through separations and, in the near future, a divorce. I’ve dealt with complete loneliness in life when my family moved across states, and I’ve had struggles with self-harm since I was seven years old. In feeling utterly alone, I’ve still had one friend by my side, and that friend has always been music. Music is what’s gotten me through the darkest moments in my life, and it continues to heal me in ways that no person ever could. This is where my desire to pursue music therapy originates. Everyone feels moved by music to some extent, and there’s science to prove the benefits of musical therapeutics. My desire and hope for my future is to use my talents for those who need it most. I don’t need to leave a huge legacy behind; however, I want to be remembered for my determination and ability to overcome challenges while helping others. I aim to create entirely original music in a world that is increasingly driven by AI. After facing many “no's,” I’m focused on transforming them into firm “yes's”. I know I have the grit to succeed in this tough industry, and I’m committed to pursuing my passion for music despite the obstacles.

I sit at the piano, playing the same progression of notes for hours until it’s just right. I’ll be strumming on my guitar, determined to play through the pain of tender fingertips. At 3 am, I wake up inspired and start songwriting on the spur of the moment. Music is my passion, a huge part of who I am. I first decided to pursue music as my career path when I began teaching myself to play the guitar. My dad used to play guitar, but it had been sitting untouched for years. One day, after talking to a friend who played, I decided to try learning it. The moment I started playing chords, I realized that music wasn’t just a thing I liked to do. I didn’t just enjoy playing piano or writing lyrics. Actually, I was fascinated by every instrument and every aspect of music. Music is the one thing that never leaves my side in times of trouble. Every emotion can be expressed musically, and it is therapy for the soul. I have a desire to provide that same feeling I get from music to others, because it is truly healing. I hope to pursue a degree in music composition. This degree doesn't seem especially impactful at first glance. However, I believe otherwise. A degree in music composition would give me the tools to compose exceptional music. Eventually, I plan to use those composition skills in music therapy. The therapeutic aspects of music are significant. It has been proven to manage various conditions such as depression, anxiety, and even neurological disorders. Music has also been proven to enhance cognitive function. In many instances, elders with dementia have been able to sit down at a piano and play perfectly. Their memory may be fading, but music stays with them. Music can also help motor function, even when someone isn’t actively playing. This is because hearing the rhythm of music activates the motor cortex, explaining why we feel compelled to dance to music. My role models in the music industry include my professors. As a homeschool student, I’ve had the unique opportunity to dual-enroll in college music courses, making me the only such student in my college’s music program this past year. I'm incredibly grateful for my professors, who, through their accomplishments and dedication, pass down their knowledge to younger generations. Their commitment to teaching and their kindness inspire me deeply. Jimmy Iovine is another main role model of mine in the music industry. He discovered his passion for music after college while working at Record Plant Studios, demonstrating that you don’t need years of experience to make a name for yourself. In 1990, he co-founded Interscope Records, which specifically focuses on prioritizing artists and ideas. Acknowledging his own lack of formal education in music, he helped establish the USC Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young Academy for Arts, Technology, and the Business of Innovation, donating $70 million to the program. I admire how he turned his experiences into a platform to inspire the next generation. One day, I hope to follow his lead and encourage young students to pursue their dreams. I don’t need to leave a huge legacy behind; however, I want to be remembered for my determination and ability to overcome challenges while helping others. I aim to create entirely original music in a world that is increasingly driven by AI. After facing many “no's," I’m focused on transforming them into firm “yes's”. I know I have the grit to succeed in this tough industry, and I’m committed to pursuing my passion for music despite the obstacles.

There’s a quote I live by that says, “Keep your face always toward the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you,” Walt Whitman. During dark, tough times in life, we must keep our eyes on the positives. In doing so, we not only encourage those around us but also build our own perseverance and identity. I hope to pursue a degree in music composition with a double major in music technology. This degree may not seem especially impactful at first glance. However, I believe otherwise. A degree in music composition would give me the tools to compose exceptional music. Eventually, I plan to use those composition skills in music therapy. The therapeutic aspects of music are significant. It has been proven to manage various conditions such as depression, anxiety, and even neurological disorders. Music has also been proven to enhance cognitive function. In many instances, elders with dementia have been able to sit down at a piano and play perfectly. Their memory may be fading, but music stays with them. Music can also help motor function, even when someone isn’t actively playing. This is because hearing the rhythm of music activates the motor cortex, explaining why we feel compelled to dance to music. I also plan to major in music technology, allowing me a whole new set of skills and potential. While this degree would allow me to put my compositions into sound, I can also use it for other (more important) things. Personally, I don’t feel the need to leave some huge legacy behind. However, I want to be remembered for my determination and ability to overcome challenges while helping others. Music technology would allow me to let other musicians’ works shine. I could edit and mix their music knowledgeably, giving them a final product they feel proud of. I aim to not only create myself, but also help others create original music in a world that is increasingly driven by AI. I have the grit to succeed in this tough industry, and I’m committed to pursuing my passion for music despite the obstacles. Attending university for music will require a substantial time commitment on my part. However, it’s a goal of mine to continue volunteering at every opportunity. I want to serve my community, and I plan to continue doing so. Primarily, I volunteer at my local church. I clean the kids’ classrooms, put inserts in the seatbacks, vacuum… I do most of the things that go unseen, but make a difference. Ultimately, above all else, I value my faith and love for God. He’s called me into the ministry of music, one that affects different kinds of people. And so, in my pursuit of helping others through music, it’s my priority to volunteer at my church while I chase after my musical dreams. As a first-generation college student, it’s easy to feel the burdens. I have a strong desire to prove to my family what I’m capable of, but at the end of the day, it’s all God’s will be done. Whatever God has for me, I will chase after it with all my heart, despite the obstacles along the way!

The world has a way of convincing us to be something that we aren’t. It’s unfortunate, but there’s a way we can combat the world. I’ve chosen to be unapologetically me under every circumstance life throws my way. While it isn’t always easy, it has always turned out to be rewarding in the end. Throughout my life, whether in class, extracurricular activities, or even at church, I've encountered various instances of peer pressure. About five years ago, my family relocated to a different state, which required me to start anew and forge new friendships. I've often been timid and quiet at first when meeting new people, but once I feel comfortable, I can be quite extroverted. This move introduced me to a completely different environment—almost like stepping into a new culture. All I wanted was to fit in, but no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t seem to connect with those around me. Not only was I failing to form meaningful friendships, but I also felt miserable trying to pretend to be someone I wasn’t. This realization sparked a change in me: if I couldn’t “fit in,” at least I could choose to embrace my true self. As I grew more confident in who I am and began caring less about others' opinions of me, I noticed that it became easier to engage with people. Before long, I was making friends rapidly and transformed into the “happy, confident, and unfiltered” friend that everyone enjoyed being around. What they truly sought was a genuine connection with someone who embraced their identity, unapologetically and boldly. Ironically, they craved authenticity, someone who could share their thoughts and feelings openly without the fear of judgment. I originally lacked the substance they valued in friendships. Now, I’m proud of the confident woman I am. Aesop said, “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” This rings true for every circumstance, as all the little acts matter more than we think. One of my current friends has faced a lot of gossip about her. Before I was ever friends with her, I recall my volleyball teammates talking about her behind her back. Everything she did was judged, every word that escaped her mouth. As a result, for every friend she gained, she lost two. I know what it’s like to have no friends, to feel like a stranger to everyone. It isn’t easy to stand up for oneself in the face of adversity. Despite what people said about her, I decided I wanted to be the friend she could rely on. She was actively losing friends when I started to get to know her, friends that she had been close with for a long time. The more people talked about her, the more friendships she lost. However, I wanted to be the friend who never left her side, despite what others said. It’s a lonely world without a good friend, I know. I stayed by her side while others judged and gossiped. I let her talk to me about everything, share her feelings. I sat with her while she cried, being a shoulder to rely on. She has become the closest, most amazing friend I could’ve ever asked for. For all the time I have invested in her, she has invested it all right back into me. People still talk, but we’ve learned to ignore it all. It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks of us, or how highly we’re ranked in our friend group. Loneliness hurts the soul in ways most people could never imagine, and nobody deserves to feel lonely.

I remember sitting at the piano when I was little, taking an online piano course. I still remember those one-handed songs, so simple yet so sweet in my memory. I learned the basics when I was quite young, but I didn’t fully take off with piano until eighth grade. My family relocated to a different state, and I had a lot of time on my hands. So I started a free trial for another online piano course, and picked it up really quickly. There was something so special about those beautiful keys, each note adding its own touch to the melodies. I also found much solace in writing lyrics, and I often have 3 am songwriting sessions. I dreamed about being a musician one day. And still, I figured, why try if I have no chance? As many people have told me, “only one in a million” will make it big in the music industry. Surely, I’m not “one in a million.” I first decided to pursue music as my career path when I began teaching myself to play the guitar. My dad used to play guitar, but it had been sitting untouched for years. One day, after talking to a friend who played, I decided to try learning it. The moment I started teaching myself chords, I realized that music wasn’t just a thing I liked to do. I didn’t just enjoy playing piano or writing lyrics. Actually, I was fascinated by every instrument and every aspect of music. Music is the one thing that has never left my side in times of trouble. Every emotion can be expressed musically, and it is therapy for the soul. I have a desire to provide that same feeling I get from music to others, because it is truly healing. I'm considering music degrees in education, performance, or composition. Music education would allow me to share my passion by teaching others. Performance would allow me to express myself and provide therapeutic experiences through music. Composition would enable me to write music for others, allowing them to showcase their talents through my music. I aim to create unique music that deeply expresses emotion and connects with people while also encouraging them. I want to stand out as a musician who is unapologetically myself, and I can showcase who I am through my work. Currently, I give back to my community through volunteering, including mission trips and various service projects. I went on a mission trip to Clarkston, GA, to talk to unreached people groups and rebuild a church. I volunteer to clean at church every week, because that’s a job most people don’t want to do. It’s essential for me to help others, whether through physical labor or hopefully someday through impactful songs. My goal is to be remembered for my determination and resilience while making a difference, all while pursuing my dream in a challenging industry. I don’t need to leave a huge legacy behind; however, I want to be remembered for my determination and ability to overcome challenges while helping others. I aim to create entirely original music in a world that is increasingly driven by AI. After facing many “no's,” I’m focused on transforming them into firm “yes's”. I know I have the grit to succeed in this tough industry, and I’m committed to pursuing my passion for music despite the obstacles.

Music is a deep passion of mine; it’s who I am. Whether it’s running my fingers across the beautiful piano keys, continually strumming on my guitar with tender fingertips, blowing into a trombone, or experimenting with sound and microphones… Music never ceases to fascinate me. I first decided to pursue music as my career path when I began teaching myself to play the guitar. My dad used to play guitar, but it had been sitting untouched for years. One day, after talking to a friend who played, I decided to try learning it. The moment I began teaching myself chords, I realized that music wasn’t just a thing I liked to do. I didn’t just enjoy playing piano or writing lyrics. Actually, I was fascinated by every instrument and every aspect of music. Music is the one thing that never leaves my side in times of trouble. Every emotion can be expressed musically, and it is therapy for the soul. I have a desire to provide that same feeling I get from music to others, because it is truly healing. I began to research and had the unique opportunity to dual-enroll in collegiate music courses as the only high school student in the program during that academic year. I'm incredibly grateful for my professors, whose dedication and kindness deeply inspire me. I also started taking piano lessons to refine my technique and learn more after years of being self-taught. While the experience has been demanding, I have thrived and appreciated every aspect of this journey. I'm considering music degrees in education, performance, or composition. Music education would allow me to share my passion by teaching others. Performance would allow me to express myself and provide therapeutic experiences through music. Composition would enable me to write music for others, allowing them to showcase their talents through my music. I aim to create unique music that deeply expresses emotion and connects with people while also encouraging them. I want to stand out as a musician who is unapologetically myself, and I can showcase that through my work. I don’t need to leave a huge legacy behind; however, I want to be remembered for my determination and ability to overcome challenges while helping others. I aim to create entirely original music in a world that is increasingly driven by AI. After facing many “no's”, I’m focused on transforming them into firm “yes's”. I know I have the grit to succeed in this tough industry, and I’m committed to pursuing my passion for music despite the obstacles.

I sit at the piano, playing the same progression of notes for hours until it’s just right. I’ll be strumming on my guitar, determined to play through the pain of tender fingertips. At 3 am, I wake up inspired and start songwriting on the spur of the moment. Music is my passion, a huge part of who I am. Music fuels my soul; it’s an essential part of my identity. I have been homeschooled my entire life, attending co-ops for classes once or twice a week. While I value the independence and freedom that I may have otherwise missed out on if I had attended public school, being homeschooled has also presented challenges. With no access to high school bands or orchestras, I often felt distanced from my dream of becoming a musician. I vividly recall watching television shows with musical performances and dreaming that one day I would be on those stages. I had no resources, and my dream felt just out of reach. I was constantly told that only “one in a million” people could make a real career out of music. As a result, I pushed my hopes to the side. I first decided to pursue music as my career path when I began teaching myself to play the guitar. My dad used to play guitar, but it had been sitting untouched for years. One day, after talking to a friend who played, I decided to try learning it. The moment I started teaching myself chords, I realized that music wasn’t just a thing I liked to do. I didn’t just enjoy playing piano or writing lyrics. Actually, I was fascinated by every instrument and every aspect of music. Music is the one thing that never leaves my side in times of trouble. Every emotion can be expressed musically, and it is therapy for the soul. I have a desire to provide that same feeling I get from music to others, because it is truly healing. I realized that I had to chase after my dreams of being a musician, no matter what it took. I began to research and had the unique opportunity to dual-enroll in collegiate music courses as the only high school student in the program during that academic year. I'm incredibly grateful for my professors, whose dedication and kindness deeply inspire me. I also started taking piano lessons to refine my technique and learn more after years of being self-taught. While the experience has been demanding, I have thrived and appreciated every aspect of this journey. I plan to attend college full-time and am considering music degrees in education, performance, or composition. Music education would allow me to share my passion with others; performance would enable self-expression and provide others with experiences; and composition would allow me to write music for others to play and showcase their own unique talents. I plan on participating in ensembles and releasing music during my college years, in order to gain as much experience as possible. I aim to create unique, emotional music that resonates with people while remaining true to myself as a musician. I don’t need to leave a huge legacy behind; however, I want to be remembered for my determination and ability to overcome challenges while helping others. I aim to create entirely original music in a world that is increasingly driven by AI. After facing many “no's”, I’m focused on transforming them into firm “yes's”. I know I have the grit to succeed in this tough industry, and I’m committed to pursuing my passion for music despite the obstacles.

I sit at the piano, playing the same progression of notes for hours until it’s just right. I’ll be strumming on my guitar, determined to play through the pain of tender fingertips. At 3 am, I wake up inspired and start songwriting on the spur of the moment. Music is my passion, a huge part of who I am. I first decided to pursue music as my career path when I began teaching myself to play the guitar. My dad used to play guitar, but it had been sitting untouched for years. One day, after talking to a friend who played, I decided to try learning it. The moment I started playing chords, I realized that music wasn’t just a thing I liked to do. I didn’t just enjoy playing piano or writing lyrics. Actually, I was fascinated by every instrument and every aspect of music. Music is the one thing that never leaves my side in times of trouble. Every emotion can be expressed musically, and it is therapy for the soul. I have a desire to provide that same feeling I get from music to others, because it is truly healing. I'm considering music degrees in education, performance, or composition. Music education would allow me to share my passion by teaching others. Performance would allow me to express myself and provide therapeutic experiences through music. Composition would enable me to write music for others, allowing them to showcase their talents through my music. I aim to create unique music that deeply expresses emotion and connects with people while also encouraging them. I want to stand out as a musician who is unapologetically myself, and I can showcase who I am through my work. My role models in the music industry include my professors. As a homeschool student, I’ve had the unique opportunity to dual-enroll in college music courses, making me the only such student in my college’s music program this past year. I'm incredibly grateful for my professors, who, through their accomplishments and dedication, pass down their knowledge to younger generations. Their commitment to teaching and their kindness inspire me deeply. Jimmy Iovine is another main role model of mine in the music industry. He discovered his passion for music after college while working at Record Plant Studios, demonstrating that you don’t need years of experience to make a name for yourself. In 1990, he co-founded Interscope Records, which specifically focuses on prioritizing artists and ideas. Acknowledging his own lack of formal education in music, he helped establish the USC Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young Academy for Arts, Technology, and the Business of Innovation, donating $70 million to the program. I admire how he turned his experiences into a platform to inspire the next generation. One day, I hope to follow his lead and encourage young students to pursue their dreams. I don’t need to leave a huge legacy behind; however, I want to be remembered for my determination and ability to overcome challenges while helping others. I aim to create entirely original music in a world that is increasingly driven by AI. After facing many “no's, I’m focused on transforming them into firm “yes's”. I know I have the grit to succeed in this tough industry, and I’m committed to pursuing my passion for music despite the obstacles.

Music first became a huge part of who I am in high school. In fact, I didn’t realize how passionate I truly am about music until high school. I remember when I first decided to dedicate myself to piano during freshman year. I ran my fingers across the keys that were, and always will be, beautiful in my eyes. Simple poems turned into songs and melodies. My dream to become a musician felt quite out of reach, until I entered high school. I’ve been homeschooled for my whole life, aside from attending co-ops for classes once or twice a week. I always enjoyed having more freedom and independence, which I may have not had if I attended a public school. However, being homeschooled came with its complications. Most of my life thus far, music has been something distant, just out of my reach. I didn’t have the benefit of high school bands or orchestras, and I had no idea on how to get involved anywhere else. I remember watching shows on TV related to musical performances and dreaming that I was performing on those stages. Becoming a musician is a dream I’ve had for as long as I can remember, but I kept it to myself. I didn’t know how to chase after this dream and felt that I had no chance of becoming a real musician one day. I didn’t take lessons, but instead I was completely self-taught. Being self-taught has had both advantages and disadvantages. However, all of that changed during high school. I taught myself how to play piano, and that was my go-to instrument for many years. However, a high school friend of mine played guitar. They taught me the basics and answered all of my questions. My dad used to play guitar, but it had been sitting in my sibling's room for years, untouched. I brought it out and started learning. That was when I realized that music was my absolute passion, my solace, my life. I live nearby a college known for its music program, and I began researching. All of a sudden, chasing after my lifelong dream began to seem possible. I had a meeting with a music professor at that college to explore my options. I knew I had some catching up to do in terms of skill and knowledge, but I became determined to do everything I could to pursue music. I became a dual-enrollment student in the school of music, and I was the only high school student for that academic year to be in the music building. I’ve taken theory, aural skills, and class piano, and I will be taking more classes before I officially graduate high school. I also began taking piano lessons and caught up on anything I may have missed from being self-taught. While it has been intense, I’ve thrived and enjoyed every minute. I used to be timid and unsure of my dream to be a musician. I didn’t see a way to pursue my dream, and I was afraid of what others would think. However, during my high school years, I’ve become confident and found a way to pursue my dream job. By the time I graduate high school, I will have completed 30 credit hours at the private college I plan to attend. I will have finished level two music courses and also advanced in piano and learned guitar and trombone. I couldn’t be more grateful for the high school friends who have encouraged me, and the amazing professors who have made my hopes and dreams within reach.