ISSMA Reflection

The achievements of the Edgewood drum line has lead my transition from childhood to adulthood in many ways. My director has shown me how to be not only a good percussionist, but also a good leader. From these leadership qualities, I was able to lead our drum line to success in 2016. The the indoor drum line finals at the MEPA finals in 2016 where the Edgewood Drumline was awarded first place for our performance. This accomplishment was many years in development after getting third and second place for 3 years in a row. This achievement meant a lot to me and my peers at Edgewood, as it is one of the most major endeavors that Edgewood's music department has accomplished.

Throughout my high school career, I tutored students in my school district that were not able to pass the state mandated tests during the summer. Each year that the peer tutoring program was implemented, Mesquite ISD saw a rise in test scores by at least twenty percent.

Working afterschool at my family’s business while doing homework and playing sports allowed me to manage my time and my priorities. Whether joining NCSSM’s Residential or Online program, I will be able to welcome it will loving responsible hands into my schedule. Not only would I work hard into committing to my future and current education but also for the community that makes me who I am through volunteering and projects. I won’t just try to squeeze these opportunities into my schedule but allow myself to allot a piece of my agenda for it so I can give it my all towards it. NCSSM Residential program allows me to clubs and sports on the same campus as where I learn and, in addition, lays in the center of Durham, a city full of opportunities.

On May 20th of this year, I will be graduating from De Kalb High School, and as I look back I cannot help but feel accomplished and proud. During my eighth grade year, our high school band was in desperate need of marchers, so seven lucky eighth graders, including myself, joined the band. From there I was able to earn honors in band, such as a chair in the A/ AA/ AAA Honor Band twice, a chair in the All-Band four times, a chair in the All-Area Band, a chair in the All- State Band, 2015-2016 DHS Band Sweetheart, Band Librarian for four years, Head Librarian this year, Band Council Class Representative and Vice President, Woodwind Squad Leader, Clarinet Section Leader, Woodwind Captain, Band Council Representative, Most Outstanding Musician

When my first MCAT score of 30 (7PS, 12 VR, 11BS) was released, I knew it was not fully indicative of my ability to succeed in medical school. Therefore, I chose to refocus my efforts, learning the material I had struggled with and re-taking the MCAT. The second time, I received a 514, which I believe is more representative of my knowledge and understanding. More importantly, I believe my second score demonstrates my resolve and willingness to adapt to reach my goal.

This year at contest, I believe individually, I did well with my style of music. When the music was suppose to be smooth, I played smooth, and vice versa when the music was short and jumpy. As a band, we did a good job listening to each other, and blending our sounds. We made sure all the parts were being heard and made sure the melody stood out among the others parts.

Week 4 at FIUSM has been quite the experience. I have gotten to make some friends from within WRGP and participated in some after school events to support WRGP. I have been doing well on air at the radio station. And every time I go on air I gain confidence and experience. This week is the first time I received a call from a listener. It was conforming to know I have listeners and try to show my appreciation by playing a song they requested.

Sub Goal: Observe 4th & 5th grade CSI instruction needs as per local, state, and national code requirements.

I am unique in what I offer to JSA cabinet because I am very passionate about debate and the importance of creating conversations and dialogue in high school students. My experiences with the Dartmouth Debate Institutions allowed me to become familiar with policy and parliamentary debate. I participated in workshops that strengthened my fundamentals and learned the different types of debate. Without my experiences with JSA, I don’t think I would have participated and gotten as much as much as I did out of it. Additionally, my experiences with the Debate club and talking to Emily at school allows me to also become familiar with the JSA format of debate. Since policy, parliamentary, and JSA debate formats all differ vastly from each other, I

A time when hard work paid off happened this past September when I competed in Distinguished Young Women of Warren County. I had rehearsal twice a week and with the other contestants, and practiced on my own at the studio to choreograph my solo talent- a tap dance. For months, I had been striving to give it my all and challenging myself with complex combinations. I worked late nights to perfect my technique and made sure the dance was to the best of my ability. My time and dedication paid off on the night of the performance when I walked onto the stage to perform a dance solo for the first time. Without preparation, self confidence, and perseverance, the dance would not have been so successful. I received a scholarship and award for winning

The ending of a band competition is always hard but mostly a blessing, because we are all tired and worn out caused by the past days events. Additionally, throughout the day we went through warm up, the performance, and also awards, which was all a roller coaster of emotions for each and everyone of us. “Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it can never be silent.” - Victor Hugo. We go by this quote which in meaning to us is that no matter what is going on you can use music to get it out. In conclusion, this one competition changed me and many others for the better. We have all become better people and throughout this essay explains this

After applying to UNM medical school in 2015 and getting an interview, it looked like I was a feet away from achieving my goal. However, I found out that I was waitlisted which gave me some hope that I am still in the race. I was constantly checking my email hoping that I made it. It was June 22 when suddenly I was on number two on the waitlist and felt like I was inches away. Being that close to something I have always wanted and not getting it was the most painful thing I have ever endured. I was so discharge that I stopped working on myself, and got to the point that I was days away from being homeless. However the experience gave me a new perspective in life. I have more understanding and connection with people who are going through hard

JMI has taught me many different things throughout the years of learning. I had to go through many different obstacles to get to this level. It got me thinking, How would my JMI experiences reflect on my future? What would have happened if I never went to JMI? But now I am starting to think about my future. Middle School, Career, and Orchestra.

I would like to place myself Acceptance stage of DMIS because children are getting use to their own culture. Understanding each children culture and respecting their background as teacher because every children is different and have an understanding of each culture. Have an open mind on the students idea and feelings, and behavior may seem unusual, but realize each that their experience is just as rich as your

For months preceding the ASTA competition, our orchestra worked tirelessly to put together incredibly intricate and emotional pieces in rehearsal every other day. We felt the motivation stemming from the upcoming national competition, and through it we found a drive to not only practice hard, but to play in rehearsal with a conviction and strength that builds technique and collaboration. Through my preparation, I've certainly felt a surge in growth of my playing abilities, both technical and expressive, and I felt motivation not only from the thrill of competition, but also from the love of classical music I've been developing since my first note.