From the youngest years of my life, I never truly had a specific interest that fit me and reflected the person I was. I tried so hard to pursue an athletic, such as football, basketball, or baseball like my friends, but nothing ever “clicked”. I admired the bonds and relationships made between my friends, but I could not find something that truly captivated me. During my early years of elementary education, I vividly remember sitting in our school’s auditorium, admiring the fascinating concert band performing at our annual winter concert. I was astonished but confused with myself. From that singular December day, I knew music was for me. In the following weeks, our class received a pamphlet, explaining all the instruments in the ensemble and how to join such a great organization. That night, I went home and chose the alto saxophone, not knowing the opportunities it would eventually bring me. Music has provided me with a way to express my emotions and communicate with others. It grants me the ability to escape the reality we live in today. As mentioned, through all of the musical events I participated in, I have had the opportunity to meet so many prodigious and talented musicians and mentors. Through the long & painful hours of practicing, rehearsing, and performing, my musicianship has led me to not only advance as a saxophonist but strive to be a better person. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to continue my academic and musical career at The Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus, where I am studying for a bachelor’s degree in Music (B.M. Performance) with a concentration in saxophone. This past academic year and a half, I was a member of the saxophone section in the legendary Penn State Marching Blue Band, where I witnessed love and appreciation for the marching arts like no other. I have gotten to experience so much these past two seasons, including traveling to the last Outback Bowl, Auburn University, the University of Maryland, and recently, the 2023 Rose Bowl. I have performed four full concerts with the Penn State Symphonic Band in both of my fall semesters and both spring semesters, I successfully auditioned for our premier wind band, the Symphonic Wind Ensemble on tenor saxophone. Within this past semester, the Symphonic Wind Ensemble performed two thrilling concerts, featuring works by Florence Price, Katahj Copley, Oscar Navarro, Darius Milhaud, and even Omar Thomas’ “Come Sunday”. We also were invited to perform at the 2023 Penn State Presidents Concert in Heinz Hall, which featured a masterclass and workshop at a neighboring Pittsburgh school district the day prior. I am and continue to be a member and the elected treasurer of the Penn State Saxophone Alliance at University Park, where I get to manage an organization and geek out about all things saxophone! At the conclusion of the 2022 Spring Semester and this past Fall semester, I was awarded Jury Honors for my performance on my two Jury pieces. Following graduation, I will begin auditioning for assistantship positions and scholarships at graduate schools, where I can hopefully continue to expand my knowledge and obtain a degree in saxophone performance or a similar area. Then, I will prepare & audition for the U.S. military premier bands in either the Marines, Navy, Army, or Air Force. In addition, I will be searching for other gigs and other performances I can be a part of. In a couple of years, I wish to run a full private lesson studio, where I can share the art of music-making with younger ones, as my mentors did with me.