Ever since I can remember, I have found safety and comfort in music. Whether it was while holiday caroling with my middle school choir, or inventing melodies when I was four about my mom’s homemade spaghetti, music has always been my most natural way of expression. I was introduced to jazz in elementary school, when I auditioned for my school’s ensemble. I didn’t know it then, but this opportunity would change the direction of my life immensely. Having the opportunity at this age to get involved in the musical community through festivals and performances introduced me to foster relationships that have since led to my professional growth. Throughout my career so far, I have had the opportunity to accomplish some of my bucket list goals, including having the opportunity to perform with Jacob Collier at Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco, traveling to New York City to perform at the Charles Mingus Festival, being awarded a Downbeat Student Music Award 3 years in a row as a winner in the Jazz Voice category, and performing for 2 years in the California All State Vocal Jazz Ensemble. I am also grateful to have had the opportunity to be a member of the SFJAZZ High School All-Stars, where I worked alongside other passionate young musicians under the direction of Paul Contos. I am so fortunate for the opportunities that I have had, as each one has shaped me immensely, not only in a musical sense, but also in developing myself as an individual. I wouldn’t have been able to get to any of these experiences, though, if not for SACJEF and the Hot Jazz Jubilee. One of my earliest memories of being introduced to this art was in attending a performance at the festival when I was in 2nd grade, watching my elementary school’s band perform. This experience shaped me greatly and inspired me to audition for the band the following year. The Hot Jazz Jubilee not only allowed me to get involved in the local community, but also provided me with opportunities to first understand networking, and how important the connections you make in life are not only professionally, but in a personal way. SACJEF-sponsored programs, such as the HJJ and TNT, have supported me immensely along my journey in music so far. On the topic of future goals, I have many that span in all directions. There is a specific goal in mind that is at the forefront of my mind. As a woman in jazz, I often find myself being the minority. I have been the only female in a plethora of different bands and programs that I have had the opportunity to join. While participating in jam sessions, music festivals, and camps, I frequently look around and notice how few women are participating. Understanding the depth of this issue is something I had not fully considered until more recently, and I have since decided that, as part of my career, I want to be a beacon of change for the restructuring of this social system. In my musical future, I envision immersing myself not only in academic pursuits to grow as a musician, but additionally, I hope to give back to music, which has brought my life such purpose. I am committed to attend Oberlin Conservatory in the fall, as a jazz voice major; continuing and growing my pursuit in America’s only true original art form. I look forward to continuing my journey to a deeper understanding of my role in music, not just music’s role in me.