Personal Statement

“What am I?” or “What do I want in life?” is one of the most difficult questions one can ask themselves. It may take a lifetime before one discovers the answer. But I’ve come to the realization that financial and emotional security is one of things I want in life. To me, security is the emotional ensurance of having something or someone there for me when I need it. Security is an essential part of life and is needed by everyone to fully enjoy and succeed in life. Thus far in life I’ve had music as an emotional security which has proved to be very essential for me and I’m sure I will need it in the future. 

 Music has become sacred for me. I’ve been playing cello for nearly ten years now in a community music program; Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (YOLA). I joined YOLA when I was seven, and have been dedicated to music ever since. Music has not only allowed me to play an instrument but as also helped me through tough times such as family deaths and major family disputes.  It’s been my emotional security through my struggles while growing up. I could turn to it whenever I felt I needed it. Music makes me feel safe and allows me to focus my energy on music instead of focusing on the problems revolving my life which I can’t control. Not only has YOLA become my anchor, but it has also given me many opportunities that I never dreamt of having. I’ve had the opportunity to perform with my orchestra in wonderful venues such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Hollywood Bowl alongside famous people such as Gloria Estefan and the band Journey, the Super Bowl 50th Halftime Show with Coldplay, Beyonce and Bruno Mars and even going on a tour around California with my orchestra.

My family has also been an emotional security for me. My twin and I are the youngest of eight and were raised by a single mother. Although we didn’t have much growing up my family valued being each other’s emotional security. They support me in everything I do and want the best for me. One thing we had to deal with was financial instability. Growing up we depended on a single paycheck, my mother’s. It was hard for me to see her struggle to pay rent and bills. My older siblings have started helping us financially, but we still struggle. Whenever I have money I contribute on paying the house expenses. Being financially unstable throughout my childhood has made me realize that when I’m older I don’t want to live paycheck-to-paycheck. I want to be a successful professional and be financially stable and secured.

All my experiences and challenges have made me realize what I value and what I want in life. I want emotional security which I’ve received from family and music thus far. Although my music career will be different after high school, I will always seek music as an emotional security whether that be volunteering at a youth orchestra program or supporting the arts in general. All the hardship and experiences I’ve had have prepared for my future.