When I quit ballet, I felt lost and unsure of what to pursue next. I had devoted years to perfecting my technique, but I realized that what I truly loved wasn’t the dance itself; it was the music that moved me, inspired me, and gave me a voice even when I couldn’t express myself otherwise. At first, I felt denial, resisting the idea that my passion could shift, especially after so many years of devotion to the craft, but soon I recognized a deep connection to music that I had never fully acknowledged. That realization became the foundation of my journey into singing, composing, and sound engineering. I took my first steps by joining my middle school chorus and asking my parents to sign me up for singing lessons outside of school. At the same time, I faced challenges with anxiety and depression that made performing and learning difficult at times. Through it all, the support of my family and guidance from a mentor I met at a talent showcase kept me moving forward, helping me see that music could be both a personal refuge and a path toward growth. One of the most pivotal moments in my journey came unexpectedly at a mall in Miami. While eating out with my mom, I saw a DJ booth with a small stage and, on impulse, I asked if I could sing a song. He said yes. I was terrified, but I performed, and afterward, he invited me to return the next day to perform two more songs. At the time, the whole experience felt magical, like I was dreaming, but it taught me the value of courage, initiative, and seizing opportunities, even when I felt unprepared. It also reinforced that music has the power to connect people, which has become central to my creative vision. As my passion grew, I realized that talent alone wasn’t enough; I needed technical skills to bring my ideas to life. I found a school where I could learn the tools of music production, gaining experience in recording, mixing, and composing. Now, while studying sound engineering, I apply what I’ve learned to create my own songs, experimenting with ways to fuse musical influences from around the world. These skills not only help me translate my creative ideas into reality but also allow me to share music in ways that can resonate deeply with listeners. Just as music once moved me in ballet. Looking ahead, I hope to pursue a career as both a singer and a recording/mixing professional. My education will prepare me to tackle creative challenges more efficiently, focusing on ideas instead of troubleshooting technical hurdles. Beyond my personal growth, I want my work to open doors for new artists and spread cultural awareness, creating inclusive spaces where diverse voices can be heard. Music has shaped my identity. It has taught me resilience and given me a way to connect with others. I aim to carry that impact forward throughout my career.

Art to me is everything I create with the purpose of showing others my vision… and to me, my best piece of art is my small business logo. The Sweet Delights logo is my favorite piece of art I have created because it represents intention, growth, and the courage to turn something personal into something shared. While logos are often viewed as purely functional, this one was drawn and designed by me, with every detail chosen to reflect warmth, care, and authenticity. I wanted the logo to feel handmade and inviting, mirroring the experience I hope people have when they encounter Sweet Delights itself. The inspiration behind this piece came from my love for creating moments of comfort and connection through food. Growing up, food was never just about eating, it was about culture, togetherness, and care. I wanted the logo to carry those same values, which is why I avoided anything that felt overly polished or impersonal. Instead, I focused on organic lines, gentle shapes, and a visual identity that felt approachable and human. Each element was intentionally designed to communicate that Sweet Delights is built with heart, not just ambition. Beyond the design itself, Sweet Delights carries a deeply personal story. It was my first business, born out of a desire to help my mom while taking charge of my personal expenses. Our family faced financial challenges, and I wanted to contribute in a meaningful way. Selling alfajores allowed me to develop skills I had never explored before: entrepreneurship, budgeting, and customer care; while also learning the value of hard work and persistence. The logo became a visual representation of that effort: every color, shape, and curve was a deliberate choice to communicate care, authenticity, and purpose. Creating this logo was also a personal turning point for me as a creative. I have always been someone with many ideas, but turning those ideas into something tangible felt intimidating. Designing the Sweet Delights logo forced me to trust my instincts and commit to my vision, even when it didn’t follow traditional rules. I learned that art does not need to be perfect to be powerful; it needs to be honest. This piece taught me that intention matters more than convention. Ultimately, the logo symbolizes not only my artistic growth but also my resilience and independence. It reminds me that creativity can be practical, personal, and impactful all at once. Sweet Delights, and its logo, represent a journey of learning, helping my family, and creating opportunities through my own effort. Every time I see it, I am reminded that art can tell a story, build connections, and inspire both the creator and those it reaches.

To me, creating a legacy means achieving what generations before me could only dream of and making sure future generations dream even bigger. My parents’ generation never graduated high school, yet I not only walked that stage, but I also chose to pursue higher education. That decision wasn’t just for me: it was for my past, my present, and the future I want to shape. My legacy begins with breaking cycles and ends with building bridges for those who come after me. I want my life to reflect how hard work, my resilience, and that standing out can lead to real change. I’ve fought, and continue to fight, against stereotypes, language barriers, and mental health challenges to get to where I am today. And I know there are so many kids who are just like I was, full of potential but unsure if they’ll ever have the opportunity to let it shine. That’s why I plan to build a foundation specifically for low-income youth. My dream is not only to guide them toward opportunity but to BE the opportunity: offering jobs, mentorship, and the space to grow confident in their talents. This dream was born out of watching my mother work tirelessly, sometimes until one or two in the morning, so I could have the things I needed. After my parents’ divorce, she carried even more on her shoulders, but she never let it break her. Her strength shaped me, and now I want to shape a world where no family has to struggle like mine did just to give their child a chance. Through this foundation, I want to help young people build their future with dignity and support, not pity. So many programs stop at motivation or guidance. Mine will go further, offering employment to help them gain experience, confidence, and income. I want every kid who joins to feel seen, capable, and empowered to become more than just a statistic. I shine my light through the work I do today, starting with the intentional steps I’ve taken since beginning university to lay the groundwork for the foundation I hope to build. One of my proudest accomplishments so far has been creating a campus club focused on brand building and creative marketing, a space where students can learn how to promote their passions and skills in ways that truly reflect who they are. Through this club, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor others and teach valuable skills like personal branding and storytelling, but more importantly, I’ve helped people believe in themselves. I’ve seen students grow from unsure and hesitant to confident and driven, simply by being given the tools and encouragement they needed. I lead with kindness, creativity, and forward-looking optimism because I believe that when people feel seen and supported, they begin to understand their own potential. I’ve been called hardworking countless times, and while I used to see that as just surviving, I now recognize it as a reflection of my resilience and commitment: not just to myself, but to those I want to lift up along the way. Being seen this way reminds me that I’m on the right path, and it fuels my motivation to keep going and to keep shining my light even brighter for others to follow. My legacy will be a combination of personal values and professional purpose: a life lived forward, with open hands and a light that makes space for others to shine too.

One of my greatest achievements to date has been believing I can. I can pursue future education, I can put myself out there, I can become the artist I dream to be, I can reach my goals in the music industry, I can, I can, and I did... about 6 months ago I took a leap, I took something I loved and showed it to the world and to my surprise, they liked it. I launched my YouTube channel and committed to creating content despite initial self-doubt. Granted, because of school I've struggled with consistency, often forgetting about my channel or hesitating to post due to insecurities about my work. However, I'm gradually pushing myself to step out of my comfort zone, embracing the challenge of filming, editing, and sharing my ideas with an audience. This journey isn't only improving my technical skills in video production but also helped me build confidence in my creative abilities. Creating content for my channel requires me to develop discipline and perseverance. There are moments when I feel overwhelmed, whether it is struggling with lighting while filming my teriyaki chicken and rice bowl video or remembering to record each step of the cooking process. Despite these obstacles, I remind myself why I started: to share my passion for creativity and storytelling. By learning from my mistakes and continuously improving, I realized that growth comes from persistence and a willingness to adapt. Each video I upload represents a step forward, proving to myself that I can overcome challenges with dedication. This experience continues to teach me valuable lessons about myself. First, I learned that my biggest obstacle is often my own hesitation. I used to fear that my work wouldn’t be “good enough,” but I discovered that perfection is not the goal, progress is. By embracing trial and error, I become more comfortable with taking creative risks and experimenting with different styles. Second, I realized that I enjoy connecting with people through storytelling, whether through cooking videos, music discussions, or sharing aspects of my daily life. Engaging with an audience and receiving feedback has reinforced my belief in the power of creativity to bring people together. Beyond personal growth, this experience has also shaped my long-term aspirations. My ultimate goal is to work in the music industry and establish an inclusive record label that supports artists from diverse backgrounds. Just as my YouTube journey helped me gain confidence in sharing my voice, I want to create a space where musicians feel empowered to express themselves authentically. I believe that music has the ability to unite people across cultures, and I want to contribute to an industry that fosters creativity and inclusivity. To achieve this goal, I plan to continue refining my skills in sound engineering while expanding my knowledge of business and artist management. My experiences with video production and content creation have already given me valuable insights into branding and audience engagement, essential aspects of the modern music industry. Additionally, I want to use my platform to raise awareness about mental health and provide resources for artists navigating the pressures of the industry. Looking ahead, I know that my journey is just beginning, but my past achievements have shown me that I am capable of overcoming challenges and continuously growing. Whether through YouTube, music, or business, I am committed to creating a meaningful impact. By staying open to learning and embracing every opportunity for growth, I hope to build a career that not only fulfills my passions but also supports others in realizing their creative dreams.

Music has been more than just a form of entertainment for me: it has shaped who I am, influenced my career goals, and provided a sense of comfort and understanding during my most difficult moments. From the beats that make me dance to the lyrics that make me feel seen, music has been a constant companion, helping me navigate nearly everything life has thrown my way, including personal struggles and aspirations. I've said it once and I'll say it again, one of the most powerful aspects of music is its ability to make people feel understood. Throughout my life, I have turned to music during moments of loneliness, self-doubt, and hesitation. Artists like Karol G, Lady Gaga, and many more have played a huge role in this. Karol G’s music carries messages of empowerment, heartbreak, and self-love, reminding me that growth comes from both success and failure. Her willingness to be vulnerable about her struggles, whether it’s heartbreak, industry challenges, or self-discovery, has shown me and many others that it’s okay to feel and embrace my emotions. Similarly, Lady Gaga’s openness about mental health, self-acceptance, and resilience has helped me through times when I felt lost. Her music, from “Born This Way” to the raw emotion in “Shallow,” has given me the confidence I needed, reassured me that imperfection is part of being human, and overall made me feel human in a way that words always fall short to explain. Seeing these artists use their platforms to share their vulnerabilities has made me feel less alone and has inspired me to embrace my own journey, no matter how uncertain it may seem. Beyond personal growth, music has also shaped my dreams and career goals. I have always believed that music should be accessible to everyone, not just as listeners but as creators who feel safe and included in the industry. That belief has fueled my passion for making the music industry a better space, one where artists from all backgrounds feel heard and supported. Like Karol G, I want to create a record label that not only develops artists but also fosters an environment where they can be their authentic selves without fear of judgment. The way Karol G and Lady Gaga have used their platforms to uplift others has influenced my vision: I don’t just want to work in the music industry; I want to change it for the better. Music is more than just sound, it’s a universal language that connects people, helps them heal, and pushes them forward. It has given me strength when I needed it most, helped me find my voice, and inspired me to create something meaningful in this world. As I continue on my journey, I know that music will always be there, guiding me, comforting me, and reminding me why I fell in love with it in the first place.

Music has always been more than just sound to me: it’s a language, a source of comfort, and a way to connect with the world. From an early age, I was drawn to the way music could evoke emotions, tell stories, and bring people together. I think I've done everything I could do to understand music on a deeper level: singing along to songs on the radio, analyzing lyrics, or discovering new genres. I found that music has always been the one constant in my life. This passion for music only deepened over time, shaping my educational journey and guiding my aspirations for the future. Throughout my studies, music has been both an inspiration and a driving force. It has taught me discipline, creativity, and perseverance. I’ve always been fascinated by the technical aspects of music production, how can a simple melody be transformed into something complex and moving? It wasn't until recently that I learned it is all done through mixing, layering, and sound design. Pursuing a degree in sound engineering has given me the opportunity to explore these elements in depth, from understanding acoustics and signal flow to working with digital audio workstations and professional recording equipment. These experiences have reinforced my belief that music is not just an art form but a powerful tool for expression and connection. Beyond the technical side, music has played a crucial role in my personal growth. It has helped me navigate challenges, express myself when words fall short, and connect with others who share my passion. I’ve learned that music is not just about the artists who create it but also about the listeners it impacts. This realization has influenced the way I approach my studies and my future goals. Looking ahead, my goal is to create a safer and more inclusive music industry. I want to establish a record label that not only produces great music but also fosters an environment where artists feel supported and valued. Many talented musicians struggle to find their place in an industry that often prioritizes trends over authenticity; I want to change that by helping artists develop their careers while staying true to their creative visions. Furthermore, I aim to bridge cultural gaps through music, incorporating different styles, languages, and influences to create a space where diversity is celebrated. Music has shaped who I am in ways I never could have imagined. It has given me confidence, purpose, and a sense of belonging. As I continue my education and work toward my future goals, I am excited to use my skills and experiences to contribute to an industry that has given me so much. My journey with music is far from over, and I look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead, ones where I can help shape the future of music while ensuring that others find the same passion and inspiration that I have.

In an increasingly interconnected world, fostering empathy and understanding is crucial to building a more inclusive global community. Through my passion for music, storytelling, and cultural appreciation, I believe I can use my talents to bridge gaps between people of different backgrounds, fostering deeper connections and mutual respect. Music has long been a universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and personal experiences. As someone deeply invested in the music industry, I recognize and see its power to bring people together and share diverse narratives firsthand. My goal is to create a record label that not only promotes artists from various cultures but also ensures their voices are authentically represented. By advocating for diversity in music, I hope to develop an industry where people from all walks of life feel seen and heard. Through collaborations that combine different musical styles and languages, I can introduce audiences to new perspectives and help break down stereotypes. Beyond music, storytelling plays a vital role in shaping our understanding of the world. My experience with video content creation has taught me the importance of sharing relatable and meaningful stories. By producing content that highlights the experiences of people from diverse backgrounds, whether through my YouTube channel or social media platforms, I can create spaces where people feel encouraged to share their stories and learn from one another. These narratives promote empathy by allowing audiences to step into someone else’s shoes, ultimately challenging biases and encouraging acceptance. Additionally, my deep appreciation for different cultures and languages strengthens my ability to connect with people globally. I make a conscious effort to embrace various traditions and perspectives, ensuring that my creative projects remain inclusive. Whether through promoting international artists, curating culturally rich content, or engaging in discussions about representation in media, I strive to use my platform to highlight the beauty of diversity and encourage cross-cultural understanding. Finally, my personal experiences with mental health have reinforced my commitment to creating safe spaces where individuals feel valued. In both my professional and personal endeavors, I support open conversations about mental well-being. By incorporating themes of resilience, vulnerability, and emotional expression into my work, I hope to break down stigmas and encourage people to support one another with compassion. Through music, storytelling, cultural inclusivity, and mental health advocacy, I plan to use my unique skills to contribute to a more empathetic and understanding global community. By fostering creative and meaningful connections, I hope to inspire others to embrace diversity and recognize the shared humanity that unites us all.

Growing up in a household where two vastly different cultures coexisted was both a challenge and a privilege. My mother is Colombian, and my father is Cuban, two cultures rich in history, traditions, and ways of life. My parents got divorced when I was 15. Most people will argue that their divorce shows these two didn't work well together, maybe because they were "too different." While I can agree that they differ in many ways, I am living proof of how beautifully they can come together. This fusion of backgrounds shaped my identity, teaching me adaptability, understanding, and the power of unity. However, as the first in my family to graduate high school and pursue a college degree, my journey has been anything but easy. Being a first-generation college student comes with immense pride but also significant challenges. The financial strain on my family has been one of the biggest obstacles, but it has never been a roadblock, only a motivator. My parents and I have worked tirelessly to ensure that I can pursue higher education, and through this process, I have learned the true meaning of resilience. The sacrifices we have made fuel my determination to succeed, not just for myself but for them and for others who share a similar story. My goal? To make a lasting impact on the music industry by creating a safer and more inclusive environment. Music has always been my passion, but I recognize that the industry has flaws: barriers that prevent talented individuals from reaching their full potential due to financial struggles, lack of access to education, or mental health challenges. I want to help break those barriers, ensuring that no one feels excluded from pursuing their dreams because of circumstances beyond their control. Additionally, I hope to support others who, like me, come from immigrant families and face similar struggles in their pursuit of higher education and career opportunities. Pursuing higher education always seemed like a crucial step in achieving these goals. While I have always understood music from a performer’s perspective, I realized that to truly make a difference, I needed to learn the technical side as well. That is why, when looking for my future home I chose a university that provides hands-on experience and industry knowledge. I want to get the most out of my time in school and equip myself with the tools to open more doors, not just for myself, but for those I hope to uplift in the future. My journey as a college-bound student of an immigrant family has been filled with challenges, but each one has shaped me into the person I am today. I am determined to use my education, experiences, and passion to create opportunities for others, proving that where you come from does not define how far you can go.

Music is my lifeline... From a young age, it’s helped me express emotions I couldn’t put into words, comforted me in my toughest moments, and connected me to others. Through music, I’ve found my voice, and it’s through this connection that I’ve realized what I want to offer the world: a place where everyone feels heard, understood, and empowered. I aim to contribute not only by creating music that resonates with people but by changing the music industry to make it safer, more inclusive, and more supportive for all types of artists. Music’s ability to unite people is one of its most powerful qualities. I’ve always been drawn to how different cultures and traditions use music to express universal human emotions: joy, sadness, hope, and pain. Growing up, my parents had very different music taste so I was exposed to a variety of genres from around the world, and this exposure showed me how, despite our differences, we all use music to express ourselves. This realization is at the heart of my music: unity and celebration of diversity. However, I know that the music industry still holds many barriers for artists, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Too often, musicians feel pressured to conform to a specific image or sound to be successful. I want to change that. I believe the industry should embrace all artists, regardless of their style or background. Through my music, collaborations, and future projects, I hope to provide a platform for artists who might otherwise be overlooked by mainstream audiences. My goal is to create an environment where individuality and authenticity are valued, and where creativity is allowed to flourish freely. In addition to promoting inclusivity, I want my music to serve as a source of strength. I’ve experienced moments where music helped me process my emotions and navigate tough times. Some songs felt like they were written just for me, capturing my feelings when I couldn’t find the words. That’s the kind of music I want to create, something that reaches people when they need it most. Whether it’s a song about overcoming tough situations, finding hope in difficult moments, or simply celebrating life, I want my music to remind people they’re not alone. If just one person hears my song and feels understood, I’ll know I’ve made a difference. While creating music that connects is my passion, I also want to change the way the industry treats its artists. Too many musicians struggle with burnout, financial instability, and mental health challenges, often overlooked in favor of profit. As someone with anxiety, I know how mental health can take a big toll on your everyday performance. I want to be part of a movement that reforms the industry, making it a place where artists are supported, not exploited. My vision includes advocating for fairer contracts, mental health resources, and a culture that prioritizes artists’ well-being over productivity. The rise of social media and streaming platforms has already begun to create more opportunities for independent artists. I want to contribute to this change by offering a platform where musicians can thrive without compromising their mental health or creative freedom. The future of the music industry should be one where artists can grow their careers sustainably, with access to resources that support their overall well-being. At the end of the day, my goal isn’t just to create music: it’s to leave a lasting impact. I want my music to inspire others, to make people feel less alone, and to contribute to a more inclusive industry. Whether it’s through a song that comforts someone in their darkest moment, a platform that elevates underrepresented voices, or an industry that finally prioritizes its people, I want to know I’ve made a positive difference. Music has changed my life, and I hope that through my work, I can help change others’ lives too. I want to create music that not only entertains but connects, empowers, and reminds us that no matter how tough life gets, we’re all in this together.

Growing up in a Hispanic family has shaped the way I see the world in countless ways. My culture is not just a background; it is the foundation of my values, my work ethic, and the way I connect with others. From an early age, I was immersed in a household filled with warmth, resilience, and an undeniable sense of community. These experiences have influenced my perspective on life, teaching me the importance of family, hard work, and perseverance. One of the most defining aspects of my upbringing was the emphasis on hard work. In my family, nothing was handed to us; if we wanted something, we had to earn it. I grew up watching my parents work tirelessly to provide for me, demonstrating that success comes through dedication and effort. This mindset has deeply influenced me and stays stuck with me, making me resilient and determined in my academic and professional pursuits. Whether it’s in my studies, my businesses, or my aspirations in the music industry, I carry with me the same perseverance that my parents taught me. When I think of my Hispanic heritage, food and music immediately come to mind. Our family gatherings; whether for Christmas, birthdays, or any holiday, were always filled with delicious meals and loud music. These moments were more than just celebrations; they were a way for us to stay connected to our roots and to each other. The sounds of cumbia, salsa, and reggaeton, mixed with the delicious smell of homemade dishes, made every gathering feel special. These experiences taught me the importance of joy, unity, and tradition. Language has also played a significant role in shaping my identity. I lived in Colombia for the first 10 years of my life, so I spoke only Spanish with my family, but after moving, my parents and I naturally adopted Spanglish. While this shift helped us adapt, it also became a symbol of how we straddle two cultures. Speaking both languages has allowed me to appreciate the richness of my heritage while also navigating life in a new country. As of today, I continue to be grateful that I'm bilingual. Despite the beauty of my culture, being Hispanic has come with its challenges. When I first moved here, I faced different kinds of discrimination; some kids would mock my accent, and one even called me "dirty" simply because I came from a different background. These interactions were painful, but they also made me stronger. Rather than letting those moments define me, I used them as motivation to prove that my heritage is something to be proud of. Over time, I found confidence in my identity and became more determined to break stereotypes and educate others about the richness of Hispanic culture. My background has shaped not just who I am, but also where I’m going. The resilience and work ethic I’ve developed because of my upbringing have directly influenced my goals in the music industry. I know that success requires perseverance, and my Hispanic roots have taught me never to give up, no matter the obstacles. My ultimate goal is to create a more inclusive and diverse music industry, one where artists from all backgrounds feel represented and heard. Ultimately, my Hispanic identity is not just something I was born into, it is something I actively embrace every day. It taught me the value of hard work, the power of community, and the strength that comes from overcoming hardship. As I continue on my journey, I carry my heritage with me, using it as a source of strength and inspiration in everything I do.

Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, literally. I grew up in a household where music wasn’t just background noise; it was a necessity. My mom is Colombian and if there is one thing you need to know about Colombians is that they can’t stand silence; growing up I heard countless stories of how I would kick in the womb whenever music played. It feels like I was born with an innate connection to music, one that has only grown stronger as I’ve navigated life’s ups and downs. Throughout my life, music has been my escape, my comfort, and my way of processing emotions. I’ve turned to it in my hardest moments. Whether dealing with the loss of a loved one, struggling with my mental health, or facing physical challenges, music has been my “getaway car,” helping me step away from pain and find moments of peace. To me, music is much more than just sound; it’s a lifeline. This deep connection to music is why I’ve chosen to pursue a degree in sound engineering. While I’ve been involved in the performance side of music for years as a singer, I’ve always been curious about what goes on behind the scenes, so when the time came for me to choose a career I knew I wanted to expand my knowledge and gain the technical skills that will allow me to bring my visions to life. I believe that by understanding both the artistic and technical aspects of music, I can more effectively create pieces that inspire and move people, just as so many songs have done for me. Beyond my own personal journey, I want to share my love for music with others. I already do this in small ways in my day-to-day life, whether by sharing songs on social media, discussing music with friends, or simply recommending tracks that have helped me through tough times. But my ultimate goal is to create music that serves as a safe space for others. I want to make songs that provide comfort, motivation, and healing for those who need it. Living with anxiety and anemia has added another layer to my relationship with music. Many people don’t realize how these conditions affect each other. You see, anxiety causes stress, stress worsens anemia, and anemia makes my body more vulnerable to illnesses. It’s a cycle that can be hard to break, but music has been one of the few things that helps me regulate. I use it to ground myself during panic attacks, to refocus when my mind spirals, and to find calm in overwhelming moments. By openly sharing my experience, I hope to inspire others who struggle with similar challenges. Music can be a tool for healing, and I want to show people that no matter what they’re going through, they are not alone. Pursuing a career in music isn’t just about creating songs, it’s about making an impact. With so many people who listen to music every day, the music industry is a platform that can help get a message out. That’s what I want my work to be: a tool that unites people in a meaningful way, reaches people in their darkest moments, and reminds them that there is always hope. Whether through performance, production or simply sharing the music that has helped me, I plan to use my passion to uplift others. Music has shaped me into who I am today, and I can’t wait to see how I can use it to shape the world around me.

Music is my lifeline. I call it my lifeline because without it I wouldn't be the way I am today. I use music for everything in my day-to-day life! It has a role in every part of my day, from helping me focus and unwind to socializing and expressing myself. Without it, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. Music isn’t just a background thing or a hobby for me; it’s a powerful tool that has shaped my life in many ways. One of the most transformative experiences I’ve had with music was when I began using it to cope with anxiety and depression. In moments of overwhelming stress, music became my escape-goat. It helped me breathe, calm down, and regain control of myself. This was the moment when music stopped being just a soundtrack to my life and became an intentional tool I used to pick myself up. It was this shift that inspired me to not only use music to help myself but also to connect with and uplift others. Whether I’m performing or composing, I always aim to make my audience feel emotions, knowing that music has the power to touch people’s hearts and bring them joy, comfort, or even peace. Over the past 6-7 years, I’ve been performing, and for the last three years, I’ve been composing music. While I’m proud of these accomplishments, I don’t want to stop there. I want to master all aspects of the music industry. I want to understand production—both audio and show production—because I know that behind every hit there’s a team of professionals who bring it to life. I’m driven to learn every piece of the puzzle so that I can create music that connects with people. My goal is to impact the world by using music for more than just entertainment. I want it to be a source of comfort, a shoulder to cry on, a fun and spiritual experience for worship, or a moment where someone feels truly heard and understood. I think music has the power to speak to people in ways that words cannot, and I want to expand its reach so that everyone has a song or sound they can relate to. I’m passionate about bringing joy to people’s lives through music, and I believe it has the potential to transform people, communities, and even the world. In my journey, I want to create spaces where people can connect with music in meaningful ways. Whether they’re seeking comfort, celebration, or simply a sense of belonging, I want to be there to provide that experience through the music I create. I'm passionate and positive that I can bring music all around the world, not just as a hobby, but as a tool to bring out the life and joy in people. Finally, I believe that music has the power to unite people across cultures, languages, and differences. That’s the impact I want to make in the world, one song at a time.

When it comes to mental health anxiety has profoundly shaped my life; alongside, molded my core beliefs and values, affected my relationships, and influenced my career aspirations. Through these struggles, I've become mentally stronger, developed valuable coping strategies, and learned the importance of communication and support systems. Anxiety often introduces self-doubt and the urge to avoid tasks, but it has also motivated me to prove I’m capable despite said challenges, a strong motivator to excel in whatever career path I choose. These challenging moments, where I had to talk myself out of an anxiety attack, have made me mentally tougher and wiser. I’ve become more resilient and a go-getter as well as adopted the philosophy that "I can do it as long as I am calm." This mindset serves as a reminder to stay calm and rational, as all problems have a solution if you have a clear mind. Consequently, practices such as therapy, mindfulness, and meditation have become essential parts of my life, helping me maintain mental clarity and emotional balance. A significant turning point in my mental health journey was finding the right therapist. Initially, it was challenging to find someone who made me feel safe and understood. However, once I did, my mindset shifted, making decision-making and overall life management easier. Support systems such as therapy and family have been invaluable in my mental health journey. Therapy, in particular, has provided a safe space to explore my thoughts and feelings, while my family has offered support. I’ve developed effective coping strategies, including communication and meditation. These strategies have become essential tools in managing anxiety. Anxiety has inevitably affected my relationships with family, friends, and partners. There have been rough patches, especially when I struggled to ground myself and let my emotions take over. However, these situations also led me to seek out patient and understanding individuals who provide a supportive environment. While it is my responsibility to manage my reactions, having a support system has made it significantly easier. Additionally, I’m constantly looking to improve my communication skills, which are crucial for expressing my needs and feelings effectively. Facing and overcoming anxiety attacks has made me believe in my mental resilience. I’ve learned to think rationally even in the face of trouble, turning potential obstacles into new opportunities. I’ve also learned about a healthy work-life balance and became aware of the dangers of overworking and the importance of taking breaks. This awareness ensures that I prioritize my well-being alongside my professional ambitions. In conclusion, my experiences with mental health have deeply influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. They’ve made me mentally stronger, taught me the value of calmness and rationality, and emphasized the importance of supportive relationships and effective communication. These experiences have also shaped my approach to career planning, highlighting the necessity of a balanced life. Through it all, the support of therapy and family, along with my coping strategies, has been instrumental in navigating the challenges of anxiety and emerging more resilient.

My passion for music comes from my childhood and upbringing. Growing up, music was a constant in my day-to-day life with my family, even outside of celebrations, and I developed respect and appreciation for its power. Music is more than just sound; it's an international language that can affect people's moods, personalities, and bring diverse groups together. This exposure from a young age led me to fall in love with music, and this love has only grown over the years. I have dedicated the past six years to perfecting my singing and performing skills. This journey has been a significant part of my life, shaping not just my abilities but also my character. I've looked for numerous opportunities to showcase my talents and strengthen my knowledge of music. I participated in various performances, including Spanish Heritage events and talent shows, where I could share my passion with others. One of the most memorable experiences was performing at an LA talent showcase which allowed me to perform for professionals in the music industry and connect with other musicians. The thrill of performing for people who also appreciate and understand music was life-changing, and it reinforced my desire to pursue a career in this field. I want to explore multiple areas of the music industry. Currently, I’m focused on composing and performing, but I plan to expand my knowledge by earning a bachelor's degree in sound engineering. This educational path will enable me to broaden my horizons and deepen my technical knowledge. To date, I have taken significant steps towards achieving my goals. I have led numerous live performances and taken singing lessons to perfect my skills. In September 2024, I’ll start my formal education in sound engineering, a step that I believe will be pivotal in my career. My long-term vision is to establish my own production company. I want to create a space where new talents can record their music, regardless of their current following or fan base. By providing this platform, I hope to ease the growth and diversity of the music industry, helping new voices to be heard. My personal experience with music education in grade school was challenging. My school did not offer any music electives, which meant I had to look outside to pursue my interests. This lack of support made it difficult for my family to provide the help I needed because outside resources tend to be expensive. Thinking back, I firmly believe that music education should be part of the grade school curriculum. Music education is crucial for young students for several reasons. First, it offers students a creative outlet and the opportunity to explore different interests, which in today's rapidly changing world is essential. Many students struggle to pick a career, and exposure to music can provide them with a sense of direction and purpose. Furthermore, the benefits of music education go beyond just learning to play an instrument or sing. Academically, music enhances one's abilities and improves performance in other subjects. Socially, it brings students together, creating a sense of community and collaboration. Emotionally, music provides self-expression and can be a grounding tactic for managing stress and anxiety. In conclusion, my desire to pursue a music career comes from a lifelong passion and a commitment to expanding my skills and knowledge. At the same time, I recognize the long-lasting impact that music education can have on young students and advocate for its inclusion in grade schools. By building a love for music from an early age, we can inspire the next generation of musicians and create a more harmonious world.