Ever since a young age, music has been a source of influence in my life. For this, I am grateful to the wonderful teachers that I have had to help me along the way. Although my family is full of musicians, it was only in eighth grade that I realized I wanted to be involved in music as both a hobby and a career. My music teacher at the time, Mrs. Tompkins, was a major part of this. She was not just a teacher; she was an inspiration who could draw the best out of everyone around her. Even the students who were initially reluctant to join chorus soon found themselves singing with passion, all thanks to Mrs. Tompkins' passion for music. Sadly, she passed away from ALS in 2021, leaving a void that cannot be filled. But, her memory of kindness and dedication remains in the lives she has touched, including mine. It was Mrs. Tompkins who encouraged me to pursue music education and music performance, particularly in voice. Her belief in the power of music to uplift and unite everyone inspired me to pursue this profession as my future career. My decision to be a music education major is more than a professional choice; it is a commitment to Mrs. Tompkins and the lasting impact she had on my life. I am currently working towards a music education degree with a focus in vocal performance. I am excited about the possibility of being able to teach my own students, and have the same impact on their lives as my teachers had on mine. I want them to enjoy music and be excited about it. I want to create an atmosphere where they feel free to be creative and cultivate their gifts. I am committed to establishing a diverse and welcoming classroom where each student feels respected and valued, regardless of their background. I want to expose students to diverse cultures and perspectives so that they can develop empathy and understanding. Being a performer with diagnosed OCD and anxiety, my disabilities create obstacles in my performance career. My OCD leads to perfectionism, which results in hours in a practice room, and my fear to perform in front of others until a piece is "perfect." The mental energy my obsessive thoughts and rituals consume drain my focus and creativity, leaving less time for unplanned moments. My performance anxiety is what makes it difficult for me to perform in front of others. I am afraid of not meeting someone's expectations. And at times when a performance does not turn out as planned, I obsess over it and question my performing abilities. However I have learned to overcome these obstacles and still continue with my passion for performance. I wish to encourage others who share my diagnoses, assuring them that these challenges can be met head-on, and it is possible to have a successful career. Being honest about my struggles allows me to better understand people, and provide a resource of inspiration to those who find themselves going through the same processes. I would like to use my ability not just as a performer, but as an educator to share my love for music with the world. Music has shaped me into the person I am today, and I hope that I can use my experience, love, and persistence to inspire generations to come to find their own love for music, in spite of what obstacles they may face.

From a young age, music has been a guiding force in my life, thanks in no small part to the incredible music educators who have shaped my journey. Even though I grew up in a music-loving household, it wasn't until eighth grade that I truly understood my calling to pursue music as a lifelong passion and career. In middle school I encountered Mrs. Tompkins, our music director, whose impact on me was nothing short of transformative. Mrs. Tompkins wasn't just a teacher; she was a beacon of kindness and inspiration who had the remarkable ability to draw out the best in everyone around her. Even students who initially felt compelled to join chorus against their will soon found themselves singing with genuine enthusiasm, thanks to Mrs. Tompkins' infectious passion for music. Tragically, Mrs. Tompkins' life was cut short by ALS in April of 2021, leaving behind a void that can never be filled. Yet, her legacy of compassion and dedication lives on in the countless lives she touched, mine included. It was Mrs. Tompkins who sparked my desire to pursue music education, particularly with a concentration in voice. Her unwavering belief in the power of music to uplift and unite people inspired me to follow in her footsteps. The decision to major in Music Education was not merely a career choice; it was a heartfelt tribute to Mrs. Tompkins and all she stood for. As I embark on this journey, I am filled with excitement at the prospect of one day having students of my own, whom I can impact in the same profound way that my teachers impacted me. Each day, I am reminded of Mrs. Tompkins' enduring influence, and I am committed to carrying her spirit with me as I strive to create a nurturing and inspiring environment for future generations of music lovers, and I know she is so proud of me. When Henry Wadsworth Longfellow coined the phrase "Music is the universal language of mankind," he likely meant that music has the extraordinary ability to transcend cultural, linguistic, and societal barriers, speaking directly to the human soul in a beautiful and unique way. Regardless of one's background, upbringing, or language, music has the power to evoke strong emotions, convey messages, and forge connections on an intense level. In today's world, Longfellow's claim remains as relevant as ever. In an increasingly globalized society where diversity is celebrated and communication takes many forms, music serves as a unifying force that brings people together across geographical and cultural divides. Whether it's through the rhythms of a drum circle, the harmonies of a choir, or the melodies of a symphony orchestra, music has the unique ability to foster understanding, empathy, and shared experiences among individuals from diverse walks of life. In my vision for making a positive impact through my music career, I see several ways to achieve this. I want to inspire the next generation; as a music educator, my primary goal would be to inspire and empower the next generation of musicians. Through passionate teaching and guidance, I aim to ignite a love for music in my students, encouraging them to explore their creativity and develop their talents to the fullest. And, I want to foster an inclusive and diverse community; I believe in creating an inclusive and welcoming environment in the music classroom, where students from all backgrounds feel valued and respected. By incorporating diverse musical styles and traditions into the curriculum, I can expose students to a wide range of cultures and perspectives, fostering empathy and understanding.