I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I was the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets during my junior and senior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA and a weighted 5.0 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. I am studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. As a label, I will hopefully make money in various ways, such as a cut from streaming, physical album sales, licensing, and live performances. Nurturing, promoting, and distributing music can be a real moneymaker, but it does take experience. Many people who start a record label have a music background and experience in the industry. They also know what it takes to develop amazing artists and build audiences. Starting a record label takes strategic planning; being a record label executive requires deep knowledge of both business and music. Music requires eye-hand coordination, rhythm, tonality, symbol recognition, and interpretation. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning how to work cooperatively toward shared goals are all skills that are reinforced through music education. Based on research, college will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college offers various resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry. To be a successful student, general education is a requirement, but being able to play my instruments, learn about music history and theory, and perform for my professors and classmates is also a crucial foundation for my future success.

Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. From age six to ten, I seemed happy and optimistic in the eyes of family and friends. When people asked how I was doing, I said things happen for a reason. However, in my mind, I questioned everything. I wondered how life worked; I wanted to know the rules, restrictions, or anything I could do to avoid dying young. I feared dying and leaving the world with goals I had not reached. These questions and fears left me in a dark place. I was afraid to share these thoughts with my family and friends because I was trying to show everyone, I could handle being the man of the house. I felt that no one understood me or knew how I was feeling. One day, during a fifth-grade presentation, a middle school band came and started playing music. They sounded terrific, and afterward, the kids on stage seemed so happy when the crowd applauded for their performance. The following year, I was enrolled in a performing arts middle school and joined the school concert band. When I was worried, it soothed me; when I was weary, it encouraged me.It is not only music but the support and connection of my bandmates, that allows me to shine on stage. Being a part of a band has created lifelong friendships and memories. It is an experience that no musician forgets. Playing instruments, hanging out with friends, composing songs with band members, and performing in front of friends and family makes me feel understood. Being in a band continues to teach me how to work with others. I’ve learned how to compromise, respect, and constructively communicate with my bandmates. My focus on playing music is achieved through discipline. Self-discipline is of utmost importance in a performer's personal growth. However, I am learning life and growth is about balance. A balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. From age six to ten, I seemed happy and optimistic in the eyes of family and friends. When people asked how I was doing, I said things happen for a reason. However, in my mind, I questioned everything. I wondered how life worked; I wanted to know the rules, restrictions, or anything I could do to avoid dying young. I feared dying and leaving the world with goals I had not reached. These questions and fears left me in a dark place. I was afraid to share these thoughts with my family and friends because I was trying to show everyone, I could handle being the man of the house. I felt that no one understood me or knew how I was feeling. One day, during a fifth-grade presentation, a middle school band came and started playing music. They sounded terrific, and afterward, the kids on stage seemed so happy when the crowd applauded for their performance. I went home that evening and asked my mom if I could attend that school. The following year, I was enrolled in a performing arts middle school and joined the school concert band. As the years passed and I continued to play music with marching bands, concert bands, jazz bands, and orchestras, music motivated me to focus on living. When I was worried, it soothed me; when I was weary, it encouraged me. It is not only music but the support and connection of my bandmates, combined with my talent, that allows me to shine on stage. Being a part of a band has created lifelong friendships and memories. It is an experience that no musician forgets. Playing instruments, hanging out with friends, composing songs with band members, and performing in front of friends and family makes me feel understood. It is a feeling like no other. Being in a band continues to teach me how to work with others. I’ve learned how to compromise, respect, and constructively communicate with my bandmates. My focus on playing music is achieved through discipline. Self-discipline is of utmost importance in a performer's personal growth. However, I am learning life and growth is about balance. A balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. My mom works hard to provide for me. Although money has been tight, she always found ways to keep me active and involved. When I was younger, she discovered this nonprofit mentoring program called G3 Life App. It focused on motivating and empowering underprivileged youth. We would go every Saturday for about five hours. In exchange for enrolling me in the program for free, my mom began volunteering every Saturday. One of the enrichments of the Be More Program emphasizes exposing different possible career paths. Every Saturday, I learned about other professions, such as being a news anchor, working in the medical field, and working as a private chef. The best part about these professionals who came to speak to us was that they were from a minority group I could relate to. Thanks to the G3 Life app, I met African-American men employed as lawyers, surgeons, and engineers. G3 allowed me to discover who I was becoming as a young Haitian-American man. It encouraged me to find what I love to do. Being a part of the Be More Program and the G3 family influenced me to make intelligent choices and avoid risky behaviors. I watched my mom give her time and effort to the program, the kids, and the parents for over four years. I also witnessed local coaches and community leaders share their time as well. Once I entered high school, I began volunteering with a community youth soccer team and at local food banks. Those years with G3 showed me the importance of volunteering. I do not see giving back as a chore; it makes a difference in someone's life. Volunteering involves stepping outside one's comfort zone and taking on new challenges, whether meeting new people through community outreach, mentoring kids, or helping older people; a good volunteer should approach these situations with bravery and a positive attitude. Volunteering has provided me with a boost to my self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. Volunteering has given me a better feel about myself and a positive view of my life and future goals. Volunteering allowed me to learn and apply my skills in a real-world environment. Volunteering is all about working toward a goal while gaining an opportunity to learn and grow as an individual.

I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I was the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. My mom works hard to provide for me. Although money has been tight, she always found ways to keep me active and involved. When I was younger, she discovered this nonprofit mentoring program called G3 Life App. It focused on motivating and empowering underprivileged youth. We would go every Saturday for about five hours. In exchange for enrolling me in the program for free, my mom began volunteering every Saturday. I watched my mom give her time and effort to the program, the kids, and the parents for over four years. I also witnessed local coaches and community leaders share their time as well. Once I entered high school, I began volunteering with a community youth soccer team and at local food banks. Those years with G3 showed me the importance of volunteering. I do not see giving back as a chore; it makes a difference in someone's life. The Be More Program focused on motivating and empowering underprivileged youth. We would go every Saturday for about five hours. One of the enrichments of the Be More Program emphasizes exposing different possible career paths. Every Saturday, I learned about other professions, such as being a news anchor, working in the medical field, and working as a private chef. The best part about these professionals who came to speak to us was that they were from a minority group I could relate to. Thanks to the G3 Life app, I met African-American men employed as lawyers, surgeons, and engineers. G3 allowed me to discover who I was becoming as a young Haitian-American man. It encouraged me to find what I love to do. Being a part of the Be More Program and the G3 family influenced me to make intelligent choices and avoid risky behaviors. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. My mom works hard to provide for me. Although money has been tight, she always found ways to keep me active and involved. When I was younger, she discovered this nonprofit mentoring program called G3 Life App. It focused on motivating and empowering underprivileged youth. We would go every Saturday for about five hours. In exchange for enrolling me in the program for free, my mom began volunteering every Saturday. I watched my mom give her time and effort to the program, the kids, and the parents for over four years. I also witnessed local coaches and community leaders share their time as well. Once I entered high school, I began volunteering with a community youth soccer team and at local food banks. Those years with G3 showed me the importance of volunteering. I do not see giving back as a chore; it makes a difference in someone's life. Volunteering involves stepping outside one's comfort zone and taking on new challenges, whether meeting new people through community outreach, mentoring kids, or helping older people; a good volunteer should approach these situations with bravery and a positive attitude. Volunteering has provided me with a boost to my self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. I'm doing good for others and the community, giving me a sense of pride and identity. Volunteering has given me a better feel about myself and a positive view of my life and future goals. Self-discovery has been a motivator for volunteering. Volunteering allowed me to learn and apply my skills in a real-world environment. Volunteering is all about working toward a goal while gaining an opportunity to learn and grow as an individual. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. My mom works hard to provide for me. Although money has been tight, she always found ways to keep me active and involved. When I was younger, she discovered this nonprofit mentoring program called G3 (Giving God the Glory) Life App. It focused on motivating and empowering underprivileged youth. We would go every Saturday for about five hours. In exchange for enrolling me in the program for free, my mom began volunteering every Saturday. I watched my mom give her time and effort to the program, the kids, and the parents for over four years. I also witnessed local coaches and community leaders share their time as well. Once I entered high school, I began volunteering with a community youth soccer team and at local food banks. Those years with G3 showed me the importance of volunteering. I do not see giving back as a chore; it makes a difference in someone's life. Volunteering involves stepping outside one's comfort zone and taking on new challenges, whether meeting new people through community outreach. I believe that I deserve this scholarship because, I work hard on not just my schoolwork but myself. I also work on how I am seen in the community and the workforce. When at school I manage my grades as well as a leadership role within my school's band. I help lead about 95 students in numerous environments. I also, mange to keep a strong presence within my community by volunteering and helping the youth. This scholarship would allow me to continue to focus on my schoolwork, my leadership role, and my community work.

I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. Music requires eye-hand coordination, rhythm, tonality, symbol recognition, and interpretation. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning how to work cooperatively toward shared goals are all skills that are reinforced through music education. Based on research, college will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college offers various resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry. To be a successful student, general education is a requirement, but being able to play my instruments, learn about music history and theory, and perform for my professors and classmates is also a crucial foundation for my future success.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles, the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds, and The University of Tampa Ensemble throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. As a label, I will hopefully make money in various ways, such as a cut from streaming, physical album sales, licensing, and live performances. Nurturing, promoting, and distributing music can be a real moneymaker, but it does take experience. Many people who start a record label have a music background and experience in the industry. They also know what it takes to develop amazing artists and build audiences. Starting a record label takes strategic planning; being a record label executive requires deep knowledge of both business and music. Music requires eye-hand coordination, rhythm, tonality, symbol recognition, and interpretation. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning how to work cooperatively toward shared goals are all skills that are reinforced through music education. Based on research, college will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college offers various resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry. To be a successful student, general education is a requirement, but being able to play my instruments, learn about music history and theory, and perform for my professors and classmates is also a crucial foundation for my future success. I believe I deserve this scholarship because, I work hard on not just my schoolwork but myself. I also work on how I am seen in the community and the workforce. When at school I manage my grades as well as a leadership role within my school's band. I help lead about 95 students in numerous environments. I also, mange to keep a strong presence within my community by volunteering and helping the youth. Lately, I have been helping my community by helping the youth get into sports. And teaching the kids how to excel in sports and teaching them skills that can be used off the fields as well. I work part time on the weekends help kids. Working helps build my presence in the work force, and allows me to make some money as I work towards my independence. This scholarship would allow me to continue to focus on my schoolwork, my leadership role, and my community work while I attend college.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on.

I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. From age six to ten, I seemed happy and optimistic in the eyes of family and friends. When people asked how I was doing, I said things happen for a reason. However, in my mind, I questioned everything. I wondered how life worked; I wanted to know the rules, restrictions, or anything I could do to avoid dying young. I feared dying and leaving the world with goals I had not reached. These questions and fears left me in a dark place. I was afraid to share these thoughts with my family and friends because I was trying to show everyone, I could handle being the man of the house. I felt that no one understood me or knew how I was feeling. I was enrolled in a performing arts middle school and joined the school concert band. As the years passed and I continued to play music with marching bands, concert bands, jazz bands, and orchestras, music motivated me to focus on living. When I was worried, it soothed me; when I was weary, it encouraged me. It is not only music but the support and connection of my bandmates, combined with my talent, that allows me to shine on stage. Being a part of a band has created lifelong friendships and memories. It is an experience that no musician forgets. Playing instruments, hanging out with friends, composing songs with band members, and performing in front of friends and family makes me feel understood. It is a feeling like no other. Being in a band continues to teach me how to work with others. I’ve learned how to compromise, respect, and constructively communicate with my bandmates. My focus on playing music is achieved through discipline. Self-discipline is of utmost importance in a performer's personal growth. However, I am learning life and growth is about balance. A balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on.

Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. From age six to ten, I seemed happy and optimistic in the eyes of family and friends. When people asked how I was doing, I said things happen for a reason. However, in my mind, I questioned everything. I wondered how life worked; I wanted to know the rules, restrictions, or anything I could do to avoid dying young. I feared dying and leaving the world with goals I had not reached. These questions and fears left me in a dark place. I was afraid to share these thoughts with my family and friends because I was trying to show everyone, I could handle being the man of the house. I felt that no one understood me or knew how I was feeling. I was enrolled in a performing arts middle school and joined the school concert band. As the years passed and I continued to play music with marching bands, concert bands, jazz bands, and orchestras, music motivated me to focus on living. When I was worried, it soothed me; when I was weary, it encouraged me. It is not only music but the support and connection of my bandmates, combined with my talent, that allows me to shine on stage. Being a part of a band has created lifelong friendships and memories. It is an experience that no musician forgets. Playing instruments, hanging out with friends, composing songs with band members, and performing in front of friends and family makes me feel understood. It is a feeling like no other. Being in a band continues to teach me how to work with others. I’ve learned how to compromise, respect, and constructively communicate with my bandmates. My focus on playing music is achieved through discipline. Self-discipline is of utmost importance in a performer's personal growth. However, I am learning life and growth is about balance. A balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. Music requires eye-hand coordination, rhythm, tonality, symbol recognition, and interpretation. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning how to work cooperatively toward shared goals are all skills that are reinforced through music education. Based on research, college will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college offers various resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. There are three words I would consistently hear growing up in a Haitian household: lekòl, legliz, lakay. When translated into English, the three words mean school, church, and home. These three words represent who I am and what I value the most. My grandparents and parents taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. They made me understand that the great responsibility that comes with being Haitian-American is that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Since my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I have faced difficulties in my personal life. My stepfather was killed in a car accident when I was six years old. His death caused a shift in my life. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was there one moment, and then suddenly, he was tragically taken from us. I have learned that grief can come in waves, and I rely on my faith to get me through those moments of sadness and disbelief. Through my faith and education, I am learning that life and growth are about balance—a balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. So, while the rest of the world around me can be uncertain at times, I can rely on my faith and family to stir me into creating ways I can contribute to the world in a meaningful way. Faith and music saved me from drowning in my grief; they provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Faith taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. One day, during a fifth-grade presentation, a middle school band came and started playing music. They sounded terrific, and afterward, the kids on stage seemed so happy when the crowd applauded for their performance. I went home that evening and asked my mom if I could attend that school. The following year, I was enrolled in a performing arts middle school and joined the school concert band. As the years passed and I continued to play music with marching bands, concert bands, jazz bands, and orchestras, music motivated me to focus on living. When I was worried, it soothed me; when I was weary, it encouraged me. It is not only music but the support and connection of my bandmates, combined with my talent, that allows me to shine on stage. Being a part of a band has created lifelong friendships and memories. It is an experience that no musician forgets. Playing instruments, hanging out with friends, composing songs with band members, and performing in front of friends and family makes me feel understood. It is a feeling like no other. Being in a band continues to teach me how to work with others. I’ve learned how to compromise, respect, and constructively communicate with my bandmates. My focus on playing music is achieved through discipline. Self-discipline is of utmost importance in a performer's personal growth. However, I am learning life and growth is about balance. A balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

There are three words I would consistently hear growing up in a Haitian household: lekòl, legliz, lakay. When translated into English, the three words mean school, church, and home. These three words represent who I am and what I value the most. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. They made me understand that the great responsibility that comes with being Haitian-American is that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Since my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. My mom works hard to provide for me. Although money has been tight, she always found ways to keep me active and involved. When I was younger, she discovered this nonprofit mentoring program called G3 Life App. It focused on motivating and empowering underprivileged youth. We would go every Saturday for about five hours. In exchange for enrolling me in the program for free, my mom began volunteering every Saturday. I watched my mom give her time and effort to the program, the kids, and the parents for over four years. I also witnessed local coaches and community leaders share their time as well. Once I entered high school, I began volunteering with a community youth soccer team and at local food banks. Those years with G3 (which stands for Giving God the Glory) showed me the importance of volunteering. I do not see giving back as a chore; it makes a difference in someone's life. Putting God first means serving my community and giving back as much as possible. I have faced difficulties in my personal life. My stepfather was killed in a car accident when I was six years old. His death caused a shift in my life. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was there one moment, and then suddenly, he was tragically taken from us. I have learned that grief can come in waves, and I rely on my faith to get me through those moments of sadness and disbelief. Through my faith and education, I am learning that life and growth are about balance—a balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. So, while the rest of the world around me can be uncertain at times, I can rely on my faith and family to stir me into creating ways I can contribute to the world in a meaningful way.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry. Music requires eye-hand coordination, rhythm, tonality, symbol recognition, and interpretation. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning how to work cooperatively toward shared goals are all skills that are reinforced through music education. Based on research, college will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college offers various resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself. From age six to ten, I seemed happy and optimistic in the eyes of family and friends. When people asked how I was doing, I said things happen for a reason. However, in my mind, I questioned everything. I wondered how life worked; I wanted to know the rules, restrictions, or anything I could do to avoid dying young. I feared dying and leaving the world with goals I had not reached. I was afraid to share these thoughts with my family and friends because I was trying to show everyone, I could handle being the man of the house. I felt that no one understood me or knew how I was feeling. One day, during a fifth-grade presentation, a middle school band came and started playing music. They sounded terrific; afterwards, the kids on stage seemed so happy when the crowd applauded for their performance. I went home that evening and asked my mom if I could attend that school. The following year, I was enrolled in a performing arts middle school and joined the school concert band. As the years passed and I continued to play music with marching bands, concert bands, jazz bands, and orchestras, music motivated me to focus on living. When I was worried, it soothed me; when I was weary, it encouraged me. It is not only music but the support and connection of my bandmates, combined with my talent, that allows me to shine on stage. I’ve learned how to compromise, respect, and constructively communicate with my bandmates. However, I am learning life and growth is about balance. A balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. As a label, I will hopefully make money in various ways, such as a cut from streaming, physical album sales, licensing, and live performances. Nurturing, promoting, and distributing music can be a real moneymaker, but it does take experience. Many people who start a record label have a music background and experience in the industry. They also know what it takes to develop amazing artists and build audiences. Starting a record label takes strategic planning; being a record label executive requires deep knowledge of both business and music. Music requires eye-hand coordination, rhythm, tonality, symbol recognition, and interpretation. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning how to work cooperatively toward shared goals are all skills that are reinforced through music education. Based on research, college will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college offers various resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry. To be a successful student, general education is a requirement, but being able to play my instruments, learn about music history and theory, and perform for my professors and classmates is also a crucial foundation for my future success.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. When I was younger, my mom discovered the Be More Program, a nonprofit mentoring program through G3 Life App. Ronnie McCullough is a founding member of G3 Life Applications and has several years of experience in athletics, entrepreneurship, and training. Coach Ronnie has been employed with the Hillsborough County Public School System, teaching adult education and under-age GED. I watched Coach Ronnie give his time and effort to the program, the kids, and the parents. I also witnessed local coaches and community leaders share their time as well. Those years with G3 showed me the importance of volunteering. Volunteering involves stepping outside one's comfort zone and taking on new challenges, whether meeting new people through community outreach, mentoring kids, or helping older people; a good volunteer should approach these situations with bravery and a positive attitude. Volunteering has provided me with a boost to my self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. I'm doing good for others and the community, giving me a sense of pride and identity. Volunteering has given me a better feel about myself and a positive view of my life and future goals. Self-discovery has been a motivator for volunteering. Volunteering allowed me to learn and apply my skills in a real-world environment. Volunteering is all about working toward a goal while gaining an opportunity to learn and grow as an individual. The Be More Program focused on motivating and empowering underprivileged youth. We would go every Saturday for about five hours. One of the enrichments of the Be More Program emphasizes exposing different possible career paths. Every Saturday, I learned about other professions, such as being a news anchor, working in the medical field, and working as a private chef. The best part about these professionals who came to speak to us was that they were from a minority group I could relate to. Thanks to the G3 Life app, I met African-American men employed as lawyers, surgeons, and engineers. G3 allowed me to discover who I was becoming as a young Haitian-American man. It encouraged me to find what I love to do. Being a part of the Be More Program and the G3 family influenced me to make intelligent choices and avoid risky behaviors.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. From age six to ten, I seemed happy and optimistic in the eyes of family and friends. When people asked how I was doing, I said things happen for a reason. However, in my mind, I questioned everything. I wondered how life worked; I wanted to know the rules, restrictions, or anything I could do to avoid dying young. I feared dying and leaving the world with goals I had not reached. These questions and fears left me in a dark place. I was afraid to share these thoughts with my family and friends because I was trying to show everyone, I could handle being the man of the house. I felt that no one understood me or knew how I was feeling. My mom works hard to provide for me. Although money has been tight, she always found ways to keep me active and involved. She enrolled me in a performing arts middle school and joined the school concert band. As the years passed and I continued to play music with marching bands, concert bands, jazz bands, and orchestras, music motivated me to focus on living. When I was worried, it soothed me; when I was weary, it encouraged me. It is not only music but the support and connection of my bandmates, combined with my talent, that allows me to shine on stage. Being a part of a band has created lifelong friendships and memories. It is an experience that no musician forgets. Playing instruments, hanging out with friends, composing songs with band members, and performing in front of friends and family makes me feel understood. It is a feeling like no other. My focus on playing music is achieved through discipline. Self-discipline is of utmost importance in a performer's personal growth. However, I am learning life and growth is about balance. A balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I'm considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. I'm considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry. Music requires eye-hand coordination, rhythm, tonality, symbol recognition, and interpretation. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning how to work cooperatively toward shared goals are all skills that are reinforced through music education. Based on research, college will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college offers various resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry. To be a successful student, general education is a requirement, but being able to play my instruments, learn about music history and theory, and perform for my professors and classmates is also a crucial foundation for my future success.

I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

Financial literacy is a skill everyone should have, but unfortunately, it is not taught in most schools. It has been my experience that lack of financial education has impacted Black Caribbean and African American children and their families significantly. These groups are more likely to experience financial hardships and inequality. Being financially literate means making intelligent financial decisions that help build wealth, reduce debt, and prepare for the future with solid investments. Learning financial literacy can help students make confident money-management decisions. I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. As a label, I will hopefully make money in various ways, such as a cut from streaming, physical album sales, licensing, and live performances. Nurturing, promoting, and distributing music can be a real moneymaker, but it does take experience. Many people who start a record label have a music background and experience in the industry. They also know what it takes to develop amazing artists and build audiences. Starting a record label takes strategic planning; being a record label executive requires deep knowledge of both business and music.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. My mom works hard to provide for me. Although money has been tight, she always found ways to keep me active and involved. When I was younger, she discovered this nonprofit mentoring program called G3 Life App. It focused on motivating and empowering underprivileged youth. We would go every Saturday and in exchange for enrolling me in the program for free, my mom began volunteering every Saturday. I witnessed my mom, local coaches, and community leaders share their time with us. One of the enrichments of the Be More Program emphasizes exposing different possible career paths. Every Saturday, I learned about other professions, such as being a news anchor, working in the medical field, or working as a private chef. The best part about these professionals who came to speak to us was that they were from a minority group I could relate to. Thanks to the G3 Life app, I met African-American men employed as lawyers, surgeons, and engineers. G3 allowed me to discover who I was becoming as a young Haitian-American man. It encouraged me to find what I love to do. Being a part of the Be More Program and the G3 family influenced me to make intelligent choices and avoid risky behaviors. Once I entered high school, I began volunteering with a community youth soccer team and at local food banks. Those years with G3 showed me the importance of volunteering. I do not see giving back as a chore; it makes a difference in someone's life. Volunteering involves stepping outside one's comfort zone and taking on new challenges, whether meeting new people through community outreach, mentoring kids, or helping older people; a good volunteer should approach these situations with bravery and a positive attitude. Volunteering has provided me with a boost to my self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. I'm doing good for others and the community, giving me a sense of pride and identity. Volunteering has given me a better feel about myself and a positive view of my life and future goals. Self-discovery has been a motivator for volunteering. Volunteering allowed me to learn and apply my skills in a real-world environment. Volunteering is all about working toward a goal while gaining an opportunity to learn and grow as an individual.

Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. From age six to ten, I seemed happy and optimistic in the eyes of family and friends. When people asked how I was doing, I said things happen for a reason. However, in my mind, I questioned everything. I wondered how life worked; I wanted to know the rules, restrictions, or anything I could do to avoid dying young. I feared dying and leaving the world with goals I had not reached. These questions and fears left me in a dark place. I was afraid to share these thoughts with my family and friends because I was trying to show everyone, I could handle being the man of the house. I felt that no one understood me or knew how I was feeling. As the years passed and I learned how to play music with my school marching bands, concert bands, jazz bands, and orchestras, music motivated me to focus on living. When I was worried, it soothed me; when I was weary, it encouraged me. It is not only music but the support and connection of my bandmates, combined with my talent, that allows me to shine on stage. Being a part of a band has created lifelong friendships and memories. It is an experience that no musician forgets. Playing instruments, hanging out with friends, composing songs with band members, and performing in front of friends and family makes me feel understood. It is a feeling like no other. Being in a band continues to teach me how to work with others. I’ve learned how to compromise, respect, and constructively communicate with my bandmates. My focus on playing music is achieved through discipline. Self-discipline is of utmost importance in a performer's personal growth. However, I am learning life and growth is about balance. A balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on.

Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. From age six to ten, I seemed happy and optimistic in the eyes of family and friends. When people asked how I was doing, I said things happen for a reason. However, in my mind, I questioned everything. I wondered how life worked; I wanted to know the rules, restrictions, or anything I could do to avoid dying young. I feared dying and leaving the world with goals I had not reached. These questions and fears left me in a dark place. I was afraid to share these thoughts with my family and friends because I was trying to show everyone, I could handle being the man of the house. I felt that no one understood me or knew how I was feeling. Until I was enrolled in a performing arts middle school and joined the school concert band. As the years passed and I continued to play music with marching bands, concert bands, jazz bands, and orchestras, music motivated me to focus on living. When I was worried, it soothed me; when I was weary, it encouraged me. It is not only music but the support and connection of my bandmates, combined with my talent, that allows me to shine on stage. Being a part of a band has created lifelong friendships and memories. It is an experience that no musician forgets. Playing instruments, hanging out with friends, composing songs with band members, and performing in front of friends and family makes me feel understood. It is a feeling like no other. Being in a band continues to teach me how to work with others. I’ve learned how to compromise, respect, and constructively communicate with my bandmates. My focus on playing music is achieved through discipline. Self-discipline is of utmost importance in a performer's personal growth. However, I am learning life and growth is about balance. A balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on.

I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. From age six to ten, I seemed happy and optimistic in the eyes of family and friends. When people asked how I was doing, I said things happen for a reason. However, in my mind, I questioned everything. I wondered how life worked; I wanted to know the rules, restrictions, or anything I could do to avoid dying young. I feared dying and leaving the world with goals I had not reached. These questions and fears left me in a dark place. I was afraid to share these thoughts with my family and friends because I was trying to show everyone, I could handle being the man of the house. I felt that no one understood me or knew how I was feeling. One day, during a fifth-grade presentation, a middle school band came and started playing music. They sounded terrific, and afterward, the kids on stage seemed so happy when the crowd applauded for their performance. I went home that evening and asked my mom if I could attend that school. The following year, I was enrolled in a performing arts middle school and joined the school concert band. As the years passed and I continued to play music with marching bands, concert bands, jazz bands, and orchestras, music motivated me to focus on living. When I was worried, it soothed me; when I was weary, it encouraged me. It is not only music but the support and connection of my bandmates, combined with my talent, that allows me to shine on stage. Being a part of a band has created lifelong friendships and memories. It is an experience that no musician forgets. Playing instruments, hanging out with friends, composing songs with band members, and performing in front of friends and family makes me feel understood. It is a feeling like no other. Being in a band continues to teach me how to work with others. I’ve learned how to compromise, respect, and constructively communicate with my bandmates. My focus on playing music is achieved through discipline. Self-discipline is of utmost importance in a performer's personal growth. However, I am learning life and growth is about balance. A balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on.

Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been a drum major since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. As a label, I will hopefully make money in various ways, such as a cut from streaming, physical album sales, licensing, and live performances. Nurturing, promoting, and distributing music can be a real moneymaker, but it does take experience. Many people who start a record label have a music background and experience in the industry. They also know what it takes to develop amazing artists and build audiences. Starting a record label takes strategic planning; being a record label executive requires deep knowledge of both business and music. Music requires eye-hand coordination, rhythm, tonality, symbol recognition, and interpretation. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning how to work cooperatively toward shared goals are all skills that are reinforced through music education. Based on research, college will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college offers various resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry. To be a successful student, general education is a requirement, but being able to play my instruments, learn about music history and theory, and perform for my professors and classmates is also a crucial foundation for my future success.

I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry. Based on research, college will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college offers various resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry. To be a successful student, general education is a requirement, but being able to play my instruments, learn about music history and theory, and perform for my professors and classmates is also a crucial foundation for my future success.

Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. From age six to ten, I seemed happy and optimistic in the eyes of family and friends. When people asked how I was doing, I said things happen for a reason. However, in my mind, I questioned everything. I wondered how life worked; I wanted to know the rules, restrictions, or anything I could do to avoid dying young. I feared dying and leaving the world with goals I had not reached. These questions and fears left me in a dark place. I felt that no one understood me or knew how I was feeling. One day, during a fifth-grade presentation, a middle school band came and started playing music. They sounded terrific, and afterward, the kids on stage seemed so happy when the crowd applauded for their performance. I went home that evening and asked my mom if I could attend that school. The following year, I was enrolled in a performing arts middle school and joined the school concert band. As the years passed and I continued to play music with marching bands, concert bands, jazz bands, and orchestras, music motivated me to focus on living. When I was worried, it soothed me; when I was weary, it encouraged me. It is not only music but the support and connection of my bandmates, combined with my talent, that allows me to shine on stage. Being a part of a band has created lifelong friendships and memories. It is an experience that no musician forgets. Playing instruments, hanging out with friends, composing songs with band members, and performing in front of friends and family makes me feel understood. It is a feeling like no other. I’ve learned how to compromise, respect, and constructively communicate with my bandmates. My focus on playing music is achieved through discipline. Self-discipline is of utmost importance in a performer's personal growth. However, I am learning life and growth is about balance. A balance between body and mind, creativity and structure, and fun and work. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on.

Financial literacy is a skill everyone should have, but unfortunately, it is not taught in most schools. It has been my experience that lack of financial education has impacted Black Caribbean and African American children and their families significantly. These groups are more likely to experience financial hardships and inequality. Being financially literate means making intelligent financial decisions that help build wealth, reduce debt, and prepare for the future with solid investments. Learning financial literacy can help students make confident money-management decisions. I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. As a label, I will hopefully make money in various ways, such as a cut from streaming, physical album sales, licensing, and live performances. Nurturing, promoting, and distributing music can be a real moneymaker, but it does take experience. Many people who start a record label have a music background and experience in the industry. They also know what it takes to develop amazing artists and build audiences. Starting a record label takes strategic planning; being a record label executive requires deep knowledge of both business and music.

I have had the privilege of growing up with Haitian and American cultures. I am a second-generation Haitian American raised by traditional Haitian grandparents and Haitian-American parents. My grandparents and parents were strict, challenging, and no-nonsense. They had high expectations for me and clarified that failure was not an option. They taught me discipline, hard work, and sacrifice. Although my parents are Haitian Americans, it was essential for them to raise me knowing their culture, values, and traditions. Respect plays a vital role in the culture and identity of many Haitian families. From religious beliefs to social customs, these traditions are often passed down from generation to generation. Growing up, I knew that Haiti was the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and that life for most Haitians was a daily struggle. Haiti needs more educational and occupational opportunities that allow people a chance for growth and incremental success. I was fortunate enough to have Haitian grandparents who came to America with nothing but worked very hard to give me the type of opportunities that most kids in Haiti never get. They made me understand the great responsibility that came with being Haitian-American and that I should never take my opportunities for granted. Because my grandparents sacrificed for me, I am responsible for making something of myself. I am considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. As a label, I will hopefully make money in various ways, such as a cut from streaming, physical album sales, licensing, and live performances. Nurturing, promoting, and distributing music can be a real moneymaker, but it does take experience. Many people who start a record label have a music background and experience in the industry. They also know what it takes to develop amazing artists and build audiences. Starting a record label takes strategic planning; being a record label executive requires deep knowledge of both business and music. Music requires eye-hand coordination, rhythm, tonality, symbol recognition, and interpretation. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and learning how to work cooperatively toward shared goals are all skills that are reinforced through music education. Based on research, college will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college offers various resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry. To be a successful student, general education is a requirement, but being able to play my instruments, learn about music history and theory, and perform for my professors and classmates is also a crucial foundation for my future success.

I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.

I am a student musician who plays the baritone and alto saxophone, along with the bassoon. I have been the drum major for the Howard W. Blake Yellow Jackets since my junior year of high school. I have played with The Hillsborough All-County Ensembles and the USF Bay Area Youth (BAY) Winds throughout high school. Even with my responsibilities within my jazz band, concert band, and orchestra ensemble, I have maintained an unweighted 3.8 GPA while working a part-time job. I was inducted into my school’s National Honors Society my junior year. I have earned over 100 volunteer hours and completed two virtual classes through my local community college. Most young children are not always aware of death, nor do they understand it. Death is a common theme in cartoons, television, and movies, but experiencing grief firsthand is a different and often confusing process. My stepfather passed away when I was six. He was killed in a car accident a few months after my brother's birth. His death caused a shift in my life. My mom was now a widow with a newborn, and I was now the man of the house. His loss was a concept that I did not understand how to handle. He was here one moment and then suddenly he was tragically taken from us. I worried I could not fulfill the role of being the man of the house because it brought on tasks that I had never known existed. My grief and pain from his loss changed how I felt about myself and how I treated those around me. Music saved me from drowning in my grief; it provided me with a safe space to feel the emotions of loss. Music opened a space to express the unsayable; it gave me a new perspective on life. Playing with my bandmates helped me grow. Music taught me how to manage stress and move forward with life. Music has become a form of self-expression, allowing me to create a personal soundtrack that reflects my values, aspirations, and my journey of self-discovery. I am learning to embrace my full potential and looking forward to reaching new heights. I play in honor of my stepdad, Arimus Dixon, and although he never got to hear me play, I know he is at every performance, cheering me on. I considering studying music because music is my passion. I aim to start my own music label; as the owner and operator, I would control every decision. From the type of music, I want to promote to the marketing plan that gets the music out to fans. My record label would be about working with artists to create new music and experiences that touch people’s hearts. College will allow me to explore interdisciplinary approaches to music, dance, theater, film scoring, business, entrepreneurship, education, and technology. The music industry can be a challenging field; therefore, I hope that college can offer resources to grant me real-world experience and connections within the music industry.