Music has changed my life in so many ways, but the most significant change has been giving me a creative outlet. Through music, I’ve found a space where I can truly express myself. Whether I'm singing, creating a beat, or writing a song, I feel like I can be my true authentic self. When I sing, I am able to connect with the melodies and lyrics. Making beats lets me explore different rhythms and sounds that bring my creative ideas to life. Writing songs gives me an opportunity to tell my stories, share my thoughts, and overall connect with others in a way regular conversations couldn’t. It’s in these moments of creation that I connect with my true self, exploring and expressing my deeper thoughts and emotions. Music has not only given me a way to be creative but also a way to discover and embrace who I really am. Because of this I chose to pursue music while at Middle Tennessee State University. Attending school here has taught me so much about music on a deeper level. I’ve learned about networking, more creative ways to produce music, & the music industry as a whole. Through my courses and interactions with professors and peers, I've gained knowledge into the technical and artistic aspects of music production. I've discovered innovative techniques for mixing and mastering tracks, and I've had the opportunity to collaborate with talented musicians from diverse backgrounds. The supportive and inspiring environment at MTSU has allowed me to push my creative boundaries and refine my skills. Engaging in various projects, from live performances to recording sessions, has given me practical experience and confidence in my abilities. The connections I've made through networking events and industry seminars have opened doors to exciting opportunities and potential collaborations. I am grateful for the experiences and growth I've achieved here, and I look forward to continuing my musical journey with the strong foundation I've built. Overall, music has not only been a creative outlet but also a means of self-discovery and personal growth. My experiences at Middle Tennessee State University have deepened my understanding and passion for music, providing me with the knowledge and skills to pursue a fulfilling career in the industry. With a strong foundation and a commitment to my craft, I am excited to continue exploring the limitless possibilities that music offers. I am confident in my ability to make a meaningful impact through my art.

Music has been my lifelong passion, shaping every aspect of my journey from an early age. Whether I'm creating, singing, producing, or simply listening. Throughout my journey I have discovered that music isn't just a hobby—it's my true form of expression and understanding. It connects me with others on a deeper level and brings immense fulfillment to my life. Music has always provided me with a way of creative expression and a way for me to be my authentic self. Studying Music Business at Middle Tennessee State University has been instrumental in deepening my knowledge of the industry as a whole. It has given me insights into how creativity and business intersect, and how strategic thinking can elevate artistic projects. This education has been crucial in preparing me for my future goals. Through engaging coursework and practical learning opportunities, I've gained deep insights into the intricate relationship between creativity and commerce. This program has not only deepened my appreciation for the artistry behind music but has also equipped me with essential skills in strategic planning and business management that are crucial for navigating the complexities of the industry. Furthermore, my studies have provided me with practical knowledge that directly applies to my career aspirations. I feel well-prepared to tackle the challenges and seize the opportunities that await me in the music business. This comprehensive preparation has instilled in me a sense of confidence and determination as I look forward to making a positive impact in this dynamic field. So far studying Music Business in college has empowered me with a unique blend of creativity, business acumen, and strategic thinking that will guide my professional journey and enable me to contribute meaningfully to the vibrant world of music and entertainment. Looking forward, my ultimate ambition is to establish a business that supports creatives in music and the arts. This venture is not just about starting a business; it's about creating a supportive environment where artists can collaborate, innovate, and thrive. By doing so, I hope to contribute to the cultural landscape while helping fellow creatives achieve their dreams. In summary, my journey towards a career in Music Business is driven by my deep passion for music and my desire to make a meaningful impact in the industry. As I continue my education and develop my entrepreneurial skills, I am excited about the possibilities ahead and confident in my ability to pursue my aspirations while staying true to what I love most—music.

Music has been my lifelong passion, shaping every aspect of my journey from an early age. Whether I'm creating, singing, producing, or simply listening. Throughout my journey I have discovered that music isn't just a hobby—it's my true form of expression and understanding. It connects me with others on a deeper level and brings immense fulfillment to my life. Music has always provided me with a way of creative expression and a way for me to be my authentic self. Studying Music Business at Middle Tennessee State University has been instrumental in deepening my knowledge of the industry as a whole. It has given me insights into how creativity and business intersect, and how strategic thinking can elevate artistic projects. This education has been crucial in preparing me for my future goals.

In my opinion, the five prerequisites for success are goal setting, hard work, discipline, connections, and commitment. All of these are equally important and allow people like me to achieve success. Before anything can be achieved people should always set goals so they know what they are working towards. This will then lead to hard work and discipline which is what’s needed to accomplish any goals that are set. When it comes to connections any goals can be achieved at a faster pace just by knowing the right people. Who you know is so important which is why networking is constantly emphasized. Most importantly, commitment is required to achieve and sustain anything we want out of life. Throughout my life I have dealt with many hardships; however, my greatest hardship was when I was struggling with depression. Although this experience was one of the most difficult times in my life, I truly believe that without that season I wouldn’t be who I am today. During my eighth grade year of school, my depression first began. Looking back, I remember not loving myself, always feeling alone, and struggling with my academics. It was even hard for me to complete simple tasks and I rarely had days that I enjoyed. I eventually began therapy, rebuilt my relationship with God, and started to finally find joy in my life again. My healing journey was long and not easy, but it was all worth it in the end because I knew the result would be something I had been longing for. After going through this hardship, it taught me that I am more than capable of achieving anything I put my mind to no matter what difficulties I face. I was able to become truly happy and achieve academic success. This scholarship opportunity will help me achieve my goal of learning more about creating music by relieving some of the burden of paying tuition. I would like to avoid taking on student loans to pay for college. By avoiding student loans, I will have more opportunities to invest in music production after college instead of worrying about paying off student debt. For my whole life, my passion has been music. Whether it’s creating, singing, producing, or even listening. My love for music continues to grow. As a college student, I know my chances of achieving my personal goals will increase because of the knowledge I will gain in my major. Getting a higher education at Middle Tennessee State University will allow me to be more knowledgeable when it comes to the creative side of music. This will lead me to work hard and stay focused on my dreams of working in music. After college, I plan to make a positive change in my community by creating and releasing music that makes people feel good. In some of my darkest times, certain songs have completely changed my mood for the better and I hope to be able to do that same thing one day with my music.

I am a freshman at Middle Tennessee State University pursuing my love for music. My passion lies in audio production. I am a singer/songwriter and entertainer, having devoted a significant part of my life to singing which enables me to express emotions, share personal expression, and storytell. At the age of 8, I wrote my very first single, "Me Forever," and subsequently released three more singles. Progressing further in my music, I launched my first EP and have been sharing my newer music on SoundCloud. Additionally, I maintain a YouTube channel where I create and edit videos highlighting areas of my life. Embarking on a career path that aligns with one's passions and aspirations is a pursuit of true fulfillment. Being able to express myself through lyrics and melodies, and create connections with like-minded individuals fills me with a sense of purpose. Music has always been an integral part of my life, allowing me to share my emotions, personal expression, and storytelling. The thought of dedicating my time and energy to creating and shaping musical compositions fills me with a sense of joy and purpose. By pursuing a career in this field, I am committing to a path that allows me to channel my passion and love for music into a fulfilling vocation. Music production and songwriting provide a unique avenue for creative expression. As a music producer, I will have the opportunity to weave together various elements, including instrumentation, arrangement, and production techniques, to create immersive and captivating musical experiences. Likewise, as a songwriter, I will be able to craft lyrics that convey emotions, tell stories, and resonate with listeners on various levels. The ability to translate thoughts, feelings, and experiences into captivating musical compositions brings me a profound sense of fulfillment and allows me to connect with others on a deeply emotional level. One of the cool aspects of pursuing a career in music production and songwriting is the vast network of individuals and opportunities it presents. In the music industry, collaboration is key, and by engaging with fellow musicians, producers, and songwriters, I will be able to learn from their experiences, gain new perspectives, and refine my craft. Building connections within the industry will open doors to collaborations, mentorships, and the chance to work with talented artists. These connections not only enhance my skills but also provide invaluable support and guidance throughout my musical journey. Additionally, the prospect of networking and building connections within the music industry fills me with excitement, as it opens up a realm of endless possibilities and opportunities for growth. With every song composed and every production crafted, I hope to bring joy, inspiration, and a lasting impact to both myself and those who experience my music. Choosing to pursue a career as a music producer and songwriter is not merely a professional decision for me, but a journey that brings me joy, fueled by love, passion, and creative expression. By following this path, I seek to immerse myself in a world where music becomes my voice, my art, and my medium for touching hearts and minds.

Taylor Swift's '1989' album has so many great songs; however, the soundtrack to my 2023 year would be "Shake It Off.” While listening to the lyrics, it never fails to uplift my spirits and inspire a more positive outlook on my life. This is my favorite song on the album because its messages of focusing on the good things, staying positive, and not sweating the small things have deeply impacted me. The catchy tune and Taylor Swift's empowering lyrics set the stage for a liberating experience. The song's central message revolves around brushing off negative opinions, embracing individuality, and not allowing external judgments to dictate one's self-worth. It serves as a powerful anthem against the pressures of conformity and societal expectations. The line "I stay out too late, got nothing in my brain" is a great reminder that it's okay to be imperfect and make mistakes. Embracing my flaws and quirks is essential for personal growth and self-acceptance. Instead of dwelling on my shortcomings, "Shake It Off" allows me to celebrate my uniqueness and focus on the positive aspects of my life. The chorus of the song is the best because it tells the listeners to shake off negativity and dance to their rhythm. Taylor Swift encourages us to stay true to ourselves, despite the challenges we may face. These powerful lyrics always remind me that it's essential to live authentically and pursue my passions fearlessly. Furthermore, the song highlights the significance of resilience in the face of adversity. Life is full of ups and downs, and dwelling on the negatives can weigh us down. "Shake It Off" teaches us to rise above setbacks, redirect our focus, and find solace in the good things that surround us. It reminds us that we have the power to control our reactions and that choosing positivity can bring about profound changes in our lives. Whenever I encounter challenges or moments of self-doubt, "Shake It Off" becomes my go-to remedy. It serves as a constant reminder to release negative energy, embrace a positive mindset, and not let trivial matters overshadow the joys of life. In conclusion, "Shake It Off" from Taylor Swift's '1989' album holds a special place in my heart as my favorite song. Its uplifting and empowering messages have left a lasting impact on my life, reminding me to focus on the good things, stay positive, and not sweat the small stuff. Through its catchy melody and insightful lyrics, the song encourages us to celebrate our individuality, let go of negativity, and embrace the journey of self-discovery. "Shake It Off" will continue to be a source of inspiration and motivation, guiding me to live life with confidence and a hopeful spirit.

@nakeiatay

Taylor Swift's '1989' album has so many great songs; however, my favorite is "Shake It Off.” While listening to the lyrics, it never fails to uplift my spirits and inspire a more positive outlook on my life. This is my favorite song on the album because its messages of focusing on the good things, staying positive, and not sweating the small things have deeply impacted me. The catchy tune and Taylor Swift's empowering lyrics set the stage for a liberating experience. The song's central message revolves around brushing off negative opinions, embracing individuality, and not allowing external judgments to dictate one's self-worth. It serves as a powerful anthem against the pressures of conformity and societal expectations. The line "I stay out too late, got nothing in my brain" is a great reminder that it's okay to be imperfect and make mistakes. Embracing my flaws and quirks is essential for personal growth and self-acceptance. Instead of dwelling on my shortcomings, "Shake It Off" allows me to celebrate my uniqueness and focus on the positive aspects of my life. The chorus of the song is the best, because it tells the listeners to shake off negativity and dance to our own rhythm. Taylor Swift encourages us to stay true to ourselves, despite the challenges we may face. These powerful lyrics always remind me that it's essential to live authentically and pursue my passions fearlessly. Furthermore, the song highlights the significance of resilience in the face of adversity. Life is full of ups and downs, and dwelling on the negatives can weigh us down. "Shake It Off" teaches us to rise above setbacks, redirect our focus, and find solace in the good things that surround us. It reminds us that we have the power to control our reactions and that choosing positivity can bring about profound changes in our lives. Whenever I encounter challenges or moments of self-doubt, "Shake It Off" becomes my go-to remedy. It serves as a constant reminder to release negative energy, embrace a positive mindset, and not let trivial matters overshadow the joys of life. In conclusion, "Shake It Off" from Taylor Swift's '1989' album holds a special place in my heart as my favorite song. Its uplifting and empowering messages have left a lasting impact on my life, reminding me to focus on the good things, stay positive, and not to sweat the small stuff. Through its catchy melody and insightful lyrics, the song encourages us to celebrate our individuality, let go of negativity, and embrace the journey of self-discovery. "Shake It Off" will continue to be a source of inspiration and motivation, guiding me to live life with confidence and a hopeful spirit.

Embarking on a career path that aligns with one's passions and aspirations is a pursuit of true fulfillment. For me, that journey lies in the realm of music production and songwriting which is why I plan on exploring these careers while in college. Being able to express myself through lyrics and melodies, and forge connections with like-minded individuals fills me with an immense sense of purpose. In this essay, I will outline my desire to become a music producer and songwriter, highlighting the joy it brings me and the opportunities it presents for networking and building valuable connections. Music has always been an integral part of my life, serving as a conduit for emotions, personal expression, and storytelling. The thought of dedicating my time and energy to creating and shaping musical compositions fills me with an unparalleled sense of joy and purpose. By pursuing a career in this field, I am committing to a path that resonates deeply within me, allowing me to channel my passion and love for music into a fulfilling vocation. Music production and songwriting provide a unique avenue for creative expression. As a music producer, I will have the opportunity to weave together various elements, including instrumentation, arrangement, and production techniques, to create immersive and captivating musical experiences. Likewise, as a songwriter, I will be able to craft lyrics that convey emotions, tell stories, and resonate with listeners on a profound level. The ability to translate thoughts, feelings, and experiences into captivating musical compositions brings me a profound sense of fulfillment and allows me to connect with others on a deeply emotional level. One of the remarkable aspects of pursuing a career in music production and songwriting is the vast network of individuals and opportunities it presents. In the music industry, collaboration is key, and by engaging with fellow musicians, producers, and songwriters, I will be able to learn from their experiences, gain new perspectives, and refine my craft. Building connections within the industry will open doors to collaborations, mentorships, and the chance to work with talented artists. These connections not only enhance my skills but also provide invaluable support and guidance throughout my musical journey. Additionally, the prospect of networking and building connections within the music industry fills me with excitement, as it opens up a realm of endless possibilities and opportunities for growth. With every song composed and every production crafted, I hope to bring joy, inspiration, and a lasting impact to both myself and those who experience my music. Choosing to pursue a career as a music producer and songwriter is not merely a professional decision for me, but a journey fueled by love, passion, and creative expression. By following this path, I seek to immerse myself in a world where music becomes my voice, my art, and my medium for touching hearts and minds.

Throughout my life I have faced many challenges; however, my greatest challenge was when I was struggling with depression. Although this experience was one of the most difficult times in my life, I truly believe that without that season I wouldn’t be who I am today. During my eighth grade year of school was when my depression first began. Looking back, I remember hating what I saw when I looked in the mirror, not loving myself, and always feeling alone. I struggled daily to do simple tasks and I rarely had days that I actually enjoyed. I didn’t like being alone, yet I struggled spending time with others. I had the mindset that the people in my life didn’t truly love me so no matter what I always felt lonely. As the school year continued and my depression got worse. I felt like I had no one to talk to and I started to believe that nothing would ever change. To express my thoughts and feelings I began writing songs and journaling. One particular day my parents found one of my journal entries and they were completely shocked and saddened. Soon after, they sat me down and had a heartfelt conversation with me. My parents reminded me how much they loved and cared for me and they went on to say how much I mattered. They explained to me that I deserved to be here and we talked about how I could get the help I needed. I’m not sure how my life would have been or if my life would have continued if my parents never found what I wrote that day. I began therapy shortly after that conversation with my parents. I also rebuilt my relationship with God, and I started to finally find joy in my life again. My healing journey was long and not easy, but it was all worth it in the end because I knew the result would be something I had been longing for. I learned so much from therapists, mentors, and trusted adults. I was given ways to cope with anxiety attacks, overthinking, and negative thoughts. These coping strategies are so important because when instances arise that trigger these negative scenarios, I am able to implement them and avoid going back to that dark place. I was also able to rebuild my self-esteem and confidence during that time. I never realized how much low self esteem had affected me until I worked through those areas during therapy. There was so much information and words of advice that was shared that I still use today because my mental health is so important. Overall, dealing with depression was the most difficult challenge I ever faced in my life, but I will always be thankful for the experience. I believe that if I didn’t go through this difficult time then I wouldn’t be the strong, confident, and loving person I am today. Still to this day I don’t know what caused me to get in such a dark place, but I am beyond thankful I was able to eventually turn things around. I have a greater appreciation for happiness because I remember the moments I had in my life when I was unhappy. It is so important to always remind ourselves that hard times aren’t what shape us as humans, but instead how we choose to deal with these moments and overcome them is what truly shapes us.

Some of my attributes are leadership, confidence, communication, creativity, and self-awareness. I believe all of these attributes work together to make me an unique individual, because they allow me to step into leadership positions and think outside of the box without worrying about the opinions of others. So many organizations and businesses are always looking for volunteers to help with events, projects, clean ups, initiatives, and so much more. With opportunities like these I will be able to give back to my community in many different ways. The more I shovel to and for others, the more will be shoveled my way. Giving back to my community is important. The Greek philosopher Aristotle said, “The essence of life is to serve others and do good.” In a world full of sadness, it is important to help people find happiness. There is scientific proof of generosity contributing to human happiness. That generosity can come through the time and service we give in our communities. Being on such a large college campus will give me access to many community service opportunities. Middle Tennessee State University has over 250 student organizations. The majority of these organizations have community service components that allow students to give back to the community in various ways. I plan to join several student organizations that will help me find the right community organizations to give my time, attention, talent, and resources. I look forward to stopping on campus and reading posted flyers about upcoming meetings and opportunities to get involved in the community. Some of my most memorable times volunteering took place when I was able to incorporate what I enjoy into the volunteer work. I know some people read to preschoolers. I once had the opportunity to sing to preschoolers. I plan to seek out community service opportunities that allow me to use my singing skills. I think having the opportunity to work events at the local nursing home like singing karaoke with them or helping with some of their social activities. I am blessed to be a blessing. Therefore, I know that giving back will be a positive benefit for me as well as the people and organizations that are recipients of my giving back. There are so many opportunities to help in communities around the country. What I want to remember is that the hand I lend to lift up others is priceless. If we all do a little, no one has to do a lot!

There have been so many movies that have impacted my life; however, the one with the greatest impact is Disney's Soul. In this movie, the main character, Joe goes through many challenges that teach him the importance of truly living life to the fullest. As a person who loves music, I knew just how passionate Joe was about his music. He shares early in the movie that he was born to play the piano. It was clear that he seemed torn between teaching music at a middle school and getting to perform as a musician for a living. When he was offered the job with benefits, he realized the stability that the full-time music position would give him. Even after receiving the offer, he seemed hesitant to accept it because nothing can replace being able to do what you love daily as a profession. While trying to decide on whether to accept the full-time teaching position, Joe gets booked to perform with an amazingly talented singer. Just when Joe gets his break to perform, he dies. That moment struck me because as quickly as that opportunity came for Joe, the opportunity was taken away. There was one particular scene that had a huge impact on my life. When Joe first passed away, he got the opportunity to look back on certain moments in his life. When he was looking over his life with the character 22, she could not understand why he was trying so hard to get back to his life. From what she saw, the life Joe had lived lacked any excitement. It appeared to be boring and routine. Joe did not disagree with 22 while watching his life replay. Watching that scene completely changed my outlook and mindset when it came to my life. I am not as concerned with anyone else looking at my life and having an opinion about it. Instead, I want to ensure if I ever have the opportunity to look over my life that I will be pleased with what I see. I want to watch the replay of my life and smile, laugh, and remember all the great things about it. I don’t want to look back on my life and be disappointed. I want a life that is full of happiness, peace, and joy. I want to be surrounded by people that I truly love. I want to look back and see I lived my best life. Disney's Soul is a great reminder to live your life and trust that you will find your spark and purpose.

I enjoy music and spending time with my family. For my whole life, my passion has been music. Whether it’s creating, singing, producing, performing, or even listening to music. My love for music grows every day as I continue building connections with people in the music industry and creating music in my home studio. I started writing music at a young age. I have taken weekly vocal lessons for nearly 8 years. I released my first song at the age of 10. A few years later, I wrote and produced my debut EP entitled FEELS. I have continued writing, singing, and releasing music over the years. I did not think college would be for me mostly because I had not found a program that offered the type of music I desired to study. One of my teachers suggested a university to me. Everything I read online and watched on social media about the school and the audio production program got me excited about an opportunity I had never really considered. In addition to music, I also love creating all types of digital content. I have fallen in love with being a digital creator and enjoy sharing my different videos on my YouTube channel. I love seeing the growth in my editing skills as well as the growth of my subscribers on this platform. I also have a close relationship with my family which is why I enjoy spending time with them. We have made so many great memories over the years and they have always been my biggest supporters when it comes to my music. I plan to make a positive impact on the world through my field of study, audio production by creating and releasing music that makes people feel good. In some of my darkest times, certain songs have completely changed my mood for the better. In a world where so many struggle to maintain good mental health, I hope to be able to have music that will change people's moods for the better one day. Getting my degree from Middle Tennessee State University will allow me to become more knowledgeable when it comes to the creative side of music. I will be have so many resources that help me fine tune my craft. I feel that I will be able to tap more into my creative side by playing around with beats and arrangements that give my music a positive and impactful feel which will lead me to work hard and stay focused on my next chapter.

Trying to make the world a better place is not the easiest thing to do, but I have always wanted to make a positive difference. I know we have the potential to turn this world around for the better, so each day I try doing small actions that will lead to that change. I realize to make a difference in this world I have to start with myself. I believe one of the best ways to make the world a better place is to spread the gospel and let others know who Jesus is. Being a christian has not only made my life better, but it has also given me the courage to share the word of God with others. I always remind myself that I may be the only bible that some unbelievers will ever read; therefore, I must always let my christinaity shine through. There have been so many times people have come to me for encouragement during their most difficult moments. Specifically in the past, I had a friend come to me in one of her darkest times while she was battling with suicidal thoughts. I am so thankful she saw me as a person she could come to and that I was able to remind her of how valuable her life is. To continue bettering this world, I also try my best to always be kind. Simply smiling at someone I see in a store can drastically change their mood or day. I love giving people compliments, holding the door, and being extra polite. Being kind doesn’t cost anything and I believe more people should be this way. Another way I help this world is by constantly giving. I am so thankful God continually blesses my family and I. Therefore, I believe the least I can do is give to others. I always go through my closet and take out some clothes that I can donate to people who need them more than me. I was also taught at a young age the importance of giving to the church. When I got my first job I began giving a portion of my paycheck back to God. Overall the world can become a better place by doing so many different things. I know that it will take effort from everyone to truly see a change one day; however, I am proud to say that I’ve gotten a head start. I will continue to give, spread the word of God, be kind, and so much more because I know that’s what’s best.

Miley Cyrus’ song, The Climb, always motivates me to keep going even in the most difficult times in my life. I was first introduced to this song when I was younger; however, the lyrics never resonated with me until I got older. In this song Miley encourages people to continue moving forward despite the challenges we may face along our journey. Although every lyric has an important message, there were a few that stood out the most. When Miley sings “Keep on moving, keep climbing, keep the faith.. It’s all about the climb” it reminded me to push through when life brings difficult challenges my way. I now know that the journey is what matters the most because of how it helps us grow. As the song continues, she sings “The struggles I’m facing, the chances I’m taking, sometimes might knock me down, but no I’m not breaking” I really relate to these specific lyrics because there have been many times in my life that I have been knocked down after taking chances. These lyrics taught me not to break when I experience hard situations. Lastly Miley sings “Ain’t about how fast I get there, ain’t about what’s waiting on the other side.. it’s the climb” These lyrics are so powerful because at times we can catch ourselves focusing on how quickly we can reach a certain goal or get a specific result. It is important that while working towards our dreams and aspirations that we take time to appreciate the present moment and our daily progress. Overall, The Climb, by Miley Cyrus is more than just a song with a catchy hook. If you take time to really listen to the lyrics and the emotion she has while singing you will be able to truly understand the important message.