In the future, I want to use my career to bridge artistry, healing, and faith. As a Music Therapy major, I plan to serve in hospitals, schools, and community centers while also creating opportunities for young people to express themselves through music, dance, and other art forms. Music therapy is more than a profession for me—it is a calling to help people discover hope, healing, and purpose through creativity. I also aspire to expand my role into the music industry as both an artist and a mentor, supporting others who want to bring authenticity, depth, and soul back into music. My ultimate goal is to create safe spaces where people can experience transformation through the power of the arts. Being Black means resilience, creativity, and faith. It means carrying the strength of generations before me who endured struggle yet built culture, excellence, and legacy that shape the world today. Blackness is not just about survival; it is about thriving in authenticity and using our gifts to uplift others. I chose to attend Howard University because it represents that legacy. At Howard, I am surrounded by excellence, culture, and a community that affirms both my identity and my dreams. Attending an HBCU means I can embrace my heritage while preparing to make a global impact. For me, Howard is more than a school—it is a training ground where I am learning to turn pain into purpose and passion into lifelong impact.

Music in 2025 looks very different from past decades, even compared to the music of just 20 or 30 years ago. If I had to choose an era that reflects what I personally love about music, it would be the 1990s. That era carried a depth of soul and authenticity that still feels timeless today. Much of today’s music is shaped by trends and the demands of record labels, and while it performs well commercially, it can sometimes lack the heartfelt substance that defined earlier eras. Still, I believe the industry today holds incredible promise, especially with artists who push for originality and passion. For instance, Emma Nissen’s fusion of Jesus and jazz, Leon Thomas’s unique musicianship and songwriting, Yebba’s soulful voice, and Samara Joy’s timeless style prove that authenticity is alive and continues to inspire both artists and listeners worldwide. My name is Trinity Hart, and I am a sophomore Music Therapy major at Howard University. The position I aspire to pursue in the music industry is twofold: first, as a music therapist who integrates clinical practice with artistry, and second, as an artist and creative director who uses music to amplify authenticity and faith. I want to bridge the gap between the music industry and the healing arts, showing that music is not just entertainment but a powerful force for transformation. I chose music because it has always been the way I make sense of the world. Growing up, I witnessed pain, brokenness, and instability in my family, but I also experienced how music gave me peace, belonging, and hope. At fourteen, when I truly gave my life to Christ, music became more than just a passion—it became my ministry. Pursuing music as a hobby was never enough; I knew I had to study it, create with it, and share it in ways that could change lives. Music therapy allows me to merge science, art, and faith in a way that addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. My biggest role models in the music industry are artists who remain authentic while pushing boundaries. Emma Nissen inspires me with her boldness in blending faith and jazz. Leon Thomas motivates me with his versatility as a musician, songwriter, and actor. Yebba reminds me of the power of vulnerability and soul in music, while Samara Joy’s timeless voice proves that tradition and innovation can coexist beautifully. Each of these artists reflects integrity, artistry, and courage—the very qualities I hope to embody. The impact I want to make on the music industry is rooted in authenticity and healing. I want to create faith-driven music that speaks to the soul while also supporting other artists who want to bring depth and purpose into their work. Beyond creating, I envision managing and mentoring artists, building programs for young people, and developing spaces where music is not only performed but also used as a tool for growth and transformation. When people remember me, I don’t want them to say I was the most famous or commercially successful. I want them to remember me as someone who used her voice, creativity, and faith to bring healing, authenticity, and love into the world through music. Whether on a stage, in a hospital, or behind the scenes, I hope my legacy reflects a life that blended artistry, faith, and service—a life that showed music’s true power to transform hearts and communities.

A young girl was born into a family of dysfunction. Before that young girl came a man who lived a different type of life—a life of violence, internal pain, and a gangly livelihood. Spending seventeen years of his life incarcerated, he missed out on his firstborn’s life. When he realized he would have the opportunity to father another child, he turned his life around, starting a family with her. Once his secondborn arrived, he was murdered. He was my father. Her. Her life is an ongoing trauma that bled into mine. Her trauma was so deep that her sense of belonging, peace, and love was difficult to achieve. Whatever she strived toward, she usually accomplished, even if it didn’t last long. Throughout her life, she struggled with drugs, alcoholism, depression, etc. Eventually, her choices caught up with her, and she served time in prison. By then, all of her children were grown except for one—Rose. She is my mother. Rose is that young girl. Raised as a preacher’s kid, many assumed I had life laid out for me, but my journey was far from easy. After watching my mother’s struggles, I knew I had to break free from that cycle. In the middle of my chaos, I found the one constant that never failed me—Jesus. Through Him, I discovered strength, healing, and purpose. I recognized my pain and began turning it into passion. I learned sacrifice and perseverance from my parents, but I also learned that my life did not have to be defined by their struggles. Today, I am pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy at Howard University because I believe in the power of music to heal. Music therapy is not only about melodies and rhythms; it is the clinical and evidence-based use of music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual needs. It can lower stress, ease chronic pain, improve communication, and provide a safe outlet for emotions that words cannot capture. I’ve seen how music therapy transforms lives, and that is why I chose this profession. But for me, music therapy is more than a career—it is a calling. I believe God has gifted me with music not just to perform but to minister. I want to comfort the brokenhearted, bring joy to those in despair, and remind people of their worth. In a world where so many silently struggle with mental health challenges, physical illness, and invisible wounds, I see music therapy as a way to embody the love of Christ through action. I want to serve in hospitals, schools, and community centers, meeting people where they are and helping them discover healing through music. My vision goes further than therapy sessions. I hope to incorporate dance, acting, poetry, and cinematography into creative programs that provide safe spaces for youth. I believe that when young people are given constructive outlets for self-expression, they can avoid destructive cycles and instead find purpose. By weaving faith, creativity, and clinical practice together, I want to build communities of healing that extend beyond individual sessions and ripple outward. I am Rose. I am the daughter of two imperfect yet remarkable parents who did their best. I am a testimony of prayer, resilience, and transformation. Life has not been a fairytale, but through faith, discipline, and creativity, I am turning pain into purpose. Through my studies and career in music therapy, I plan to make a positive impact on the world by showing that healing is possible, hope is real, and God’s love can reach people through the gift of the arts.

Growing up, fine arts was never just a hobby for me—it was a lifeline, a source of expression, and a way of connecting to people when words often felt too small. My earliest experiences in middle school showed me the power of music, dance, and acting as more than performance. Whether it was singing in choir, performing solos, or participating in school musicals, I saw firsthand how fine arts could bring people together, comfort someone in silence, or spark joy in a crowded auditorium. Each rehearsal and performance deepened my sense of purpose, shaping me into not only a stronger artist but also a more empathetic person. These experiences are what led me to study music therapy in college. I wanted to transform my passion into something larger than myself, using music as a tool to heal, uplift, and give voice to those who might not otherwise be heard. My inspiration comes from my faith—Jesus has taught me the importance of living life in His Will, and I feel that my calling is to serve others through the gift of music. To me, music therapy is not just a career but a ministry, a way of bringing comfort, peace, and joy into people’s lives when they need it most. One of the most defining experiences that pushed me toward this path was watching my close friend Brianna live with sickle cell disease. During one of her sickle cell crises, a music therapist came into her hospital room and used music to help her manage pain. The shift was profound—music eased not only her physical suffering but also gave her strength in the midst of emotional struggle. Witnessing Brianna’s resilience and the impact of that therapist’s work inspired me deeply. It made me realize that I want to be that kind of person for others: someone who helps people not only endure physical pain but also find healing through emotional and spiritual support. Along this journey, my greatest earthly inspiration has been my family. I come from a family of creative individuals. My brother enjoys music as a hobby, my sister is a tattoo artist, and then there’s me. Witnessing my siblings pursue their passions has encouraged me to do the same. I no longer see my career as an occupation that will only benefit me. Yes, I will continue to learn music theory, songwriting, piano, guitar, and improve my voice, but these skills are not just for personal growth—they are tools to help others. Arts education has shaped me into who I am today: someone who believes that creativity can heal, expression can empower, and music can change lives. Without it, I would not have discovered my voice, my confidence, or my path to becoming a music therapist. I am grateful for the foundation that school gave me, for the example of my friend’s journey, and for the calling that Jesus has placed on my life to use music as a tool of healing and hope. In the future, I not only plan to use music as a form of therapy but also to integrate dance and acting as creative outlets for young people, giving them safe ways to express themselves and process their emotions. Fine arts opened the door for me to find my calling, and I hope to keep that door open for others. My journey is about more than building a career—it is about building a legacy of healing, service, and hope through the arts.

Music in 2025 looks very different from past decades, even compared to the music of just 20 or 30 years ago. If I had to choose an era that reflects what I personally love about music, it would be the 1990s. That era carried a depth of soul and authenticity that still feels timeless today. Much of today’s music is shaped by trends and the demands of record labels, and while it performs well commercially, it can sometimes lack the heartfelt substance that defined earlier eras. Still, I believe the industry today holds incredible promise, especially with artists who push for originality and passion. For instance, Emma Nissen’s fusion of Jesus and Jazz, Leon Thomas’s unique musicianship and songwriting, Yebba’s soulful voice, and Samara Joy’s timeless style show that authenticity is alive and continues to inspire both artists and listeners worldwide. Hi, my name is Trinity Hart, and I am a sophomore Music Therapy major at Howard University. Many people ask me what music therapy is and how it connects to the music industry. At its core, music therapy is the clinical and creative use of music to improve people’s well-being—physically, mentally, and emotionally. For me, music therapy is more than a profession; it is a calling. I see it as a way to blend healing, artistry, and faith into meaningful impact. My goal is to expand music therapy beyond its traditional spaces, applying it not only in healthcare but also in the broader creative arts and the music industry itself. I grew up in a Christian household, but it wasn’t until I was fourteen that I truly found Christ for myself. From then on, I knew my life had a greater purpose. Music became the way I wanted to live out that purpose—by spreading love, faith, and hope through sound. Pursuing music as a hobby was never enough for me; I needed to study it, create with it, and share it. That’s why I chose music therapy as a major, but I’ve also sought out opportunities to engage with the industry. Through my membership in Warner Music Group at Howard, I’ve been exposed to artist management, production, songwriting, and publishing. I’ve met artists like Common and Pete Rock, and these experiences have expanded my vision of how music can reach people both onstage and behind the scenes. Looking forward, I don’t claim to be the next Whitney Houston or Mariah Carey, but I do want to use my voice, creativity, and talents to advance the Kingdom of God. I hope to impact the industry in two ways: by using my own artistry to share authentic, faith-driven music, and by managing and supporting artists who also want to bring soul, depth, and purpose into their work. In a music landscape that is often dominated by trends, I see myself as someone who can help restore balance—creating space for authenticity, healing, and truth.

Music has always held a powerful place in my life, not only as an art form but also as a therapeutic tool. The intersection of music therapy and performance is where I’ve found my passion, blending my love for the expressive power of music with its ability to heal and support mental and emotional well-being. As I move forward in my studies and career, I aim to explore the profound impact of music on both individual and group healing while also embracing my own artistry as a performer. I am pursuing a career that merges two distinct but complementary areas: music therapy and performance. As a music therapist, my primary goal is to use music as a tool for emotional and psychological healing, helping individuals to overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and cognitive disorders. On the performance side, I aim to develop my skills as a vocalist focusing on genres such as Jazz and Gospel. This dual focus on both therapeutic and artistic elements of music is what excites me most about my future career path. I have been studying music for only 3 years, beginning at a performing arts camp where I was trained only in voice. Over time, my musical interests expanded, and I began to explore other instruments such as guitar and piano. During my high school years, I became increasingly involved in performance, participating in school musicals and ensembles. However, it was in college that I truly began to recognize the broader power of music beyond performance. I was introduced to the field of music therapy and immediately felt drawn to it. It was during the first year of my first semester, I began to research Music Therapy and see how it can be used as a tool to promote healing, reduce stress, and improve quality of life. This combination of artistry and healing became my primary focus, and it has shaped much of my academic and professional trajectory. My long-term goals in this field are both creative and service-oriented. First and foremost, I want to become a board-certified music therapist, working with diverse populations ranging from children with autism to elderly individuals with dementia. Music therapy is a dynamic and adaptable field, and I see myself working in various settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and private practice. I aim to continue exploring how music can foster communication, enhance emotional expression, and provide comfort during difficult life stages. I’m particularly interested in working with children because I love children and have pictured myself with them in some capacity. Simultaneously, I plan to continue my development as a performer. Through live performances, I hope to create experiences that transcend common entertainment, offering moments of emotional release, reflection, and inspiration for my audiences. Additionally, I want to combine these two aspects by using performance in a therapeutic context—whether through live concerts for patients in healthcare settings or by offering music as a form of group therapy. I see a future where both the performer and the therapist can coexist within me, creating a holistic approach to music's potential for healing. Ultimately, my goal is to use my skills in music therapy and performance to foster deeper human connections, help others heal, and create meaningful artistic experiences. By blending the healing properties of music with its artistic beauty, I hope to make a lasting impact on both individuals and communities. My journey is not just about mastering my craft but about using that mastery to create a world where music can play a central role in healing, growth, and transformation.

My favorite concert moment would be one shared with friends. Growing up I always did things with my mom but it got to a point where I was able to do things with friends. One day I impulsively texted my friend from church asking her if she wanted to go the Elevation Worship concert with me, for some context the concert occurred three days after I asked her, and she gracefully agreed. On my end, I sent her the money for the tickets but she needed more than what I thought so I had to ask my brother for more money in order for me to get the tickets. Once she bought the tickets we were set for the concert. The concert took place on a Wednesday night, so I had to go to school and then go home to figure out what I would wear for the concert. It took me all of 45 minutes to come up with my outfit and I had to be at my friend’s house at a certain time. When I arrived at her house I wasn’t late, we were just waiting on a few people. As a teen church body, we all arrived at the venue for the concert and got to our seats. Now, as the concert started I loved the opening but I realized I didn’t know as many songs as I thought I knew. As the concert went on, it was filled with the Holy Spirit and I got to worship Jesus with my friend and there were no limits to what God did that night. My first concert experience was amazing. For all of my life, I’ve had an old soul so I’ve enjoyed listening to Jazz, 90s Rhythm and Blues, Gospel, and a few other genres. My mom and I have to tight knit relationship and she knows how much I enjoy old school music. For my birthday, I believe I was 11 or 12, we went to buffet restaurant in our downtown area. We both got food for breakfast and she said that there was a surprise for me but she didn’t want me to act up. I agreed to remain calm. She turned her phone screen toward me and showed me tickets to see “New Edition” on my birthday. I gently got up from my chair, walked around the table, and let out a mezzo forte scream. I was so excited and leaping for joy on the inside. When my mom and I got to the venue we were able to take a picture by a backdrop and enjoy some hors d’oeuvres. Once we got to our seats, we had to wait for the concert to start. I’m waiting anxiously and other adults are staring at me because this music was “before my time”. As the concert began I knew all of the songs, all of the dance moves, and all of the adlibs. I spent the entire night yelling. At my young age I was fairly short so my mom allowed me to stand on a chair so I could see and I felt like how girls felt at “One Direction” concerts. I was in love with this music group and it fulfilled my soul with rich soulful music. I’m so grateful to my mom for providing me with this experience and many other experiences that grew my love and passion for music as well as performing music. Concerts have left me with nothing but inspiration and drive to work toward my dreams of being in the music industry as a singer, songwriter, and producer.

Why is what many people ask when they hear Film come across my lips as my declared major. Film is something that I’ve been passionate about for some time now. Not only do I love the art that film creates but I enjoy the depth behind it. Going to school in the performing arts field raises a lot of judgement from people. “Why can’t you major in biology?” “Do you have to major in Film, maybe minor in it.” Those are questions and statements people make all the time. Film is an intricate way for me to tell His Story. In Habakkuk 2:2, it reads, “Then the Lord said to me, Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.” Telling His Story is my life’s mission. It’ll be told through film. With film you have many different processes, such as, scriptwriting, casting, budgeting, set pieces, directing, editing, and other things. Each part plays a role in creating a beautiful cinematic experience. The same goes for telling His Story. As a member of the body of Christ, each of us has a part to play in order to save souls. You may have a pastor, a singer, a prophet, and in my case a filmmaker. Jesus is why I do what I do. How can I remain diligent in a world full of technology? Even though our world is getting warped into a technological universe, one thing that has yet to be replicated in the heart. The heart is something that is unpredictable, it waivers based on feeling, thoughts, mission, and other things. With the heart, I can create a film that tugs on the hearts of individuals whereas a script written by AI technology creates physical satisfaction but very little internal satisfaction. As a future filmmaker I aspire to do both, provide physical satisfaction through writing and internal satisfaction through directing. As a student of the arts, I love learning and growing but there are a few things I’d like to do once I receive knowledge. Creating a film from start to finish is number one on my to-do list. I’d like to go through the process of building a team for a film, writing a full length film, hiring actors, hiring set people, directing a film, and attending the premiere of my film. Another major thing I’d like to do would be to start my own performing arts company. I have previous experience in both music and dance so I’d use all the information I learned and create a space for children and young adults to learn about the craft through classes and eventually get to the point of hiring them for jobs. I’m aware how difficult it is for aspiring creatives to receive jobs so I’d like to be a good medium for them. Along with being a performing arts company, I desire to be a Christian performing arts company. It can be hard to learn more about a craft when the craft itself is revolved around a “Hollywood” society. This is something that’ll take a long time to be accomplished but once it’s accomplished, it’ll be something that’ll hopefully make a difference in others lives. No one said this road would be easy. This road is actually more difficult than all of the other avenues I could’ve taken. I take pride in choosing this as something to do for the rest of my life. I know that not only I’d be fulfilled but I’ll love what I’m doing on a daily basis. There may be hard days where I feel like quitting but that’s life. In life you have to push a keep going. Not everything will be handed to you and that’s ok, keep pushing and believe that your dream or goal will make room for you. The dream is worth it because your outcome will be beautiful as long as you have faith.

I beat death. When I was born, I was born prematurely at six months old. The doctors told my mother that I wouldn't make it out of the hospital. While in the hospital I spent three months in the incubator, struggling through kidney failure and breathing issues. During those three months, I was on the brink of death but by the grace of God, I made it through. Once I made it out of the hospital, I lost my father to murder. From then on, my mom raised me by herself. She struggled to make ends meet. There would be some moments when she would be able to sustain a lifestyle, then there were moments when she couldn't. For so long my mom struggled with alcoholism and depression, which in return, hurt me internally. Though I had struggled with certain issues with my mom, I had Christ. While walking Christ, the world around me seemed to crumble. My mom went through a psychotic break, resulting in me having to leave my hometown. When I left my hometown I had to move to another state and finish the rest of my high school years at a new school. I was excited but nervous at the same time. I was allowed to create something new for myself. I went into this new season with a mindset of faith and expectation. I knew that once I started my junior year, I'd want to get involved in whatever I could and make new friends. Little did I know, I would make great friends, find a church home, and maintain a 4.0 unweighted grade point average. Amid certain circumstances in my life, I chose to focus on the faithfulness of God. It was in the faithfulness of God that I did well in life regardless of what was around me. This adversity has shown me the realness of life. Life doesn't show grace to anyone. My adversity has drawn me nearer to Christ and in Christ I have found my true goals and dreams. I'm passionate about music. I love to sing and perform. I love to bring souls to Christ. It has been through my adversity that I learned how to withstand whatever comes my way. I've learned to use my adversity to my advantage. I tend to ask myself the question, "How can I channel this pain into passion?" Once I figure out how to answer the question I know that the adversity is no longer bigger than me. Every time I face adversity I see it as Jesus drawing nearer to me because John 16:33 says, "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." That is the one beacon of hope I follow. I've witnessed with my own eyes how much Jesus makes a difference in adversity. If Jesus brought me through one circumstance, He can bring me through another one; no matter how big or small.

After relocating from Michigan to Florida, I was frightened at the idea of starting over at a new school so far into my high school career. As a junior at a new school, in a new environment, with a belief in Jesus, I didn't know if I would ever find a friend group or a place where I would feel comfortable. I had to step out of my comfort zone as the new kid. I would have to begin to create conversations to seek out those that I would want in my life as possible life-long friends. Though choosing to reach out to people scared me, it allowed me to make friends with people that I'll cherish for the rest of my life. Once I became adjusted to the style of how classes were at my school, I began to speak to at least one person in every class. As I opened my mouth, I learned that I had a lot of things in common with people. I wasn't left feeling alone, even if I hadn't established a friendship yet. At my old high school, I was always involved in some sort of extracurricular activity so I decided to join clubs that I had an interest in. During something called Club Rush, I signed up for different clubs that followed things I was passionate about. Those clubs included Thespians Club, Black Empowerment Club, and First Priority. Each club allowed me to go deeper into the things I care about. Being a part of those clubs showed me that I can be a part of something greater than myself, no matter the location. Leaving home was no easy thing for me. I had to leave my family and my close friends behind so I could live a better life. After I moved, though it was an adjustment, I found another place to call home. I've found a church home that can allow me to be myself while also breaking me down to build me up in faith. I've created bonds with people that I can see being in my life for a long time. I've also figured out my purpose and passion for life, something I wasn't able to find back home. I learned that being a "new kid" can benefit you in more ways than it can hurt you. Though being a "new kid" seemed rough, it allowed me to start over. I didn't have any baggage from my old school or my old city that I carried over into my new living place. There were moments when I complained or was upset because I missed being home but I also grew as a person because I was a "new kid." As a "new kid," I found different opportunities to make friends, see something new, and learn more about myself. I never thought I'd enjoy being a "new kid" but it isn't as bad as I thought. Being a "new kid" has shown me the way of life. In life you will have moments where you're the "new kid," whether you move into a new city, you go to a new university, or you start a new job. You'll continuously have moments where you're the "new kid." Being the "new kid" shouldn't hinder you from living life but it should instead inspire you to continue to grow in life because that's what it taught me. Even though being the "new kid" was difficult for me, I now choose to embrace the new with an open mind, willing to be open to more.

Growing up as a preacher's kid, going to church was the only thing I could do. It was something that was forced upon me. I thought I could just show up, look pretty, and sit in children's church all day. Throughout most of my adolescence, I saw the church as a place where we sang songs, read our Bibles, and wore fancy clothes. It wasn't until I got older that I began to see the beauty of Jesus' Love in the church. When I was in middle school I fell off in my walk with Jesus. I lived a worldly life and I attracted the attention of the world. I began to fall into deep sin, such as lust, homosexuality, pornography, stealing, lying, and so much more. I struggled with depression and anxiety but I didn't notice because I covered my issues with worldliness. It wasn't until Jesus met me in my basement that I realized that I could stop running from me and I could run to Him instead. After giving my life to Christ, I experienced His Love and the power of the Holy Spirit, something only Jesus can give and it was heavenly. The only desire in my heart was to draw nearer to the Father and reach as many people as I could. I began to learn throughout my walk that I could be creative in the ways I spread the Gospel. I've learned that it could be through song, poetry, dance, or strictly obedience. For the duration of my walk, I've longed for a community that I could call home before I get to heaven. Recently, the Lord answered my prayer. Once I relocated to Florida, I wanted to find a church home. It was through my high school that I found a church home. It's called Grace Family Church and after my first service, I knew that God placed me at that church to make an impact. On Wednesdays, we have youth night, and mainly everything is led by adults except the worship. Witnessing young people worship Jesus on and off-stage is a sight to see. Being able to be a part of the worship team on Wednesdays has drastically changed my life. It has shown me what it looks like to put my flesh aside, allowing the Holy Spirit to work through me. Grace has placed me in an environment where I can be myself, experience God's Love, and fellowship with like-minded people. Although my church has helped me drastically, I took what I experienced at my church into my community. At my school and my house, I strive to spread the Love of Jesus any chance I get. Due to my serving at my church, whether it's working with children on Sundays, greeting people, or leading worship on Wednesdays; I've learned that everyone should be able to receive that. In my daily interactions and duties should be pleasing to God. So I got involved in a Christian Initiative at my school, sharing the Light of Jesus in a dark world, in this case, my school. I have seen the goodness of God, resulting in students dedicating their lives to Christ, attending youth services, or getting baptized. Even in my household of non-believers, I spread the faith of Jesus through prayer with the children and I see a heart posture in them along with their parents. Contributing to my community has resulted in the salvation of people I'd never think would choose to make Jesus Lord. This has shown me the power of serving others over yourself and knowing Jesus gets the victory.

Coming from a family where nothing but the best was expected, I gave into the idea of healthcare being the only option. Being a doctor was the safe route for me. I thought that if I did what my family wanted, I'd be satisfied with my career choice. But that wasn't the case. The closer I became to declaring my career, the further I drifted from healthcare. I slowly began to realize that I wanted to be my own person. For so long I've walked in my mother's shadow. I did what she wanted me to do rather than what I wanted to do in life. It wasn't until I found Jesus, we sort of meshed together. Parts of Him became a part of me and all I desired was to live my life for Him. As I was doing that, my life concaved in and I lost everything I knew. Everything around me changed. The only thing that remained was my relationship with Jesus Christ. It was through Him that I survived adversity in my life. It was through Him that I learned what I'm truly passionate about. Deciding to be obedient and follow the plan that the Lord had for me was not easy. When I found out that I was leaning toward becoming a filmmaker, I did not want the task because I didn't see the fulfillment in it. It wasn't until I began to spontaneously write a script in my theatre class, that's when I fell in love. I became captivated by the idea of telling a story. Storytelling is something I use to escape. I always end up in a different dimension releasing emotions and feelings that result in helping others. It was then that I chose to follow in my passion. Being a film major isn't something that fits into a box. There are many moving parts to a film major. The area that intrigues me the most will have to be directing. Although I love screenwriting, I would also love to direct the films I write. Having a purpose behind the direction of a film is a magical way to tell a story, other than the writing. The vision behind a film can change someone's life. That is my goal as a filmmaker. I desire to write films that touch the hearts of individuals. I desire to be a powerful director that unites people through film. I'm choosing to fulfill the vision that the Lord gave me.

As a young African- American woman, the way we're viewed in society belittles the dreams we may have. The visions that we receive may seem impossible to the naked eye. Being a writer, singer, director, or visionary doesn't seem to fit the standard of society. With our dreams being shattered we tend to focus on what we know rather than exploring our true passion. Being put in a box doesn't make us feel any better about ourselves, instead, it drags us down dimming our light from being shown in the world. I refuse to allow the words of the world to stop me from doing what I love. I am that writer, singer, director and visionary. Being black in America has never been easy. I've personally experienced racism and colorism in the entertainment field. Pushing through the stereotype of being a black woman in America requires me to be in uncomfortable rooms and situations to make an impact. I'm choosing to make an impact by focusing on my community and speaking out on controversial topics through my art. Another part of my impact is making artistry more affordable for people, allowing finances to not be restricted in someone's career. I also intend to show other individuals that African- American women can accomplish whatever they put their minds to. Stepping out on faith begins with me, even when I'm scared every step of the way. I haven't been in the arts for long but once I found it, I fell in love. I tried leaving but I found my way back and this is something I'm passionate about and will pursue after high school. I had my mind set on STEM-related careers, but I didn't see singing, acting, directing, or dancing as something I would enjoy doing as a career. Now all I want to do is spread this gift throughout the world, helping people embrace their passions and believing that their dreams are worth achieving. To help out others, you need to help yourself. Believing in a vision is important because you don't know who your obedience will impact.

“Dramatic representation as an art or profession” quote from the Merriam-Webster dictionary that defines theater. Growing up I’ve always enjoyed the arts. For years I trained in Hip-hop but I began to realize that I could do this later in life. So I trained in other styles of dance such as ballet, modern, jazz and west African. Throughout so much of my life, I settled for singing and dancing. During the summer of 2019, I went to a performing arts summer camp. It was one of the best things I’ve experienced in life. Classical Music, Video and Film, Musical Theater and Drama, Tech Theater, Radio Production, Photography, Dance and many other activities were held at French Woods. That was what my summer consisted of for three weeks. I learned so much about becoming a better dancer and I made great connections. During the summer of 2021, I stayed at French Woods for six weeks. I performed in two musicals, Gypsy and Mean Girls, as an ensemble member. After that summer I finally understood part of my assignment on earth. A relationship with Jesus Christ became a priority for me in life. I wanted to make sure that my career aligned with His Will. In the summer of 2022, it didn’t go as planned. My mother was incarcerated and I had to move to Florida to live with my brother. Internally and spiritually I was torn in ways that couldn’t be explained. I remained faithful but I doubted God’s power in my life. I continuously asked God why and He answered me in ways I couldn’t understand. While moving during the transition of my sophomore to junior year I finally started school. When I started school I chose one elective that I felt I would enjoy, Musical Theater. The class was more than expected. I was pushed out of my comfort zone but I had fun. Over a semester, I attended a district competition called One Acts, playing a role other than ensemble. I made friends that have the same passions. Being on this journey isn’t easy but I chose the one that would be rewarding. I will be the first in my family to receive a degree in something nontraditional. I will be successful in accomplishing my dreams. Dramatic Arts has been something that got me through a rough patch, no matter the emotion I was able to find something dramatized that helped me get through it. I want to be the person on stage or film to help someone else. I want other African American young women/ girls to know that “we” can do something life-changing. Different aspects of theater draw me in. I want to eventually help others make their visions come true; whether that’s being a director, playwright, etc. Dance allows me to be free within my body and break free of anything holding me hostage. I’m passionate about dance because I can be a representation of my community. Getting a degree in the arts will be a dream fulfilled, knowing I can further my knowledge and complete a vision placed in me that God is trusting me with, the vision that can inspire so many individuals so I cannot let Him down.