Education has always been a priority; however, attending a school system where minorities represent barely fifteen nearly percent of students and staff presents unique challenges. Growing up in church and my home I always had a mentor that could offer a perspective that was tailored to my situation. Colonial Heights presented the opportunity to use the values that were instilled in me through various mentors. In one incident that occurred in the classroom, I felt my integrity was being challenged by a teacher in front of my peers. Retaliation is a common response, but it is also a sometimes unwelcome response. Given my circumstances as a new and unfamiliar face, intuitively I knew it was a course of action that I could not take. My mentors taught me that no matter how drastic a situation, the best response is to proceed with respect and professionalism. I knew that an emotional response would not help me make the most of this embarrassing situation. I held my tongue, waited for my peers to leave, and confronted my teacher. I expressed my view of the situation. In the end, my teacher and I ended up with a better relationship. Knowing how to navigate challenging situations such as this is one of many lessons that I want to pass on to my students. "Commitment to the profession” and “Commitment to the student” are principles emphasized in the National Education Association's “Code of Ethics and Moral Responsibilities.” Within these two principles, a single point remains apparent; a teacher is meant to do everything in their power to nurture the pursuit of knowledge and the devotion to excellence. Oxford Dictionary defines a teacher as, “someone who instructs through example or experience.” This means that a teacher will work assiduously to create an environment suitable for all who are willing to seek knowledge and better themselves. It is the job of the music educator to create effective and meaningful experiences through advocacy of their program so that all students have the opportunity to express themselves through music. I feel that teaching in the vein of progressivism embodies this principle. Progressivism encourages teachers to cater their curriculum toward the interest of the students and their questions. This allows students to study subject matter systematically; this also emphasizes processing how people learn and accrue knowledge. I knew from a very young age that I was meant to be a guide for individuals in need of a familiar face and understanding. I have had several mentors who have helped me prosper throughout my life. Proverbs 27: 17 says,” As iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Through my leadership, I hope to provide others with even more tools necessary to go forward and be leaders.

The pursuit of optimal mental health for the Black community is a noble and necessary endeavor. It requires envisioning a utopian society where mental health disparities are addressed, and social justice is championed. This essay explores my vision for such a society and highlights the vital role of mental health care and advocacy in achieving social justice for communities of color. In a utopian vision, optimal mental health care for the Black community should be comprehensive and accessible. It entails increasing the availability and affordability of mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care. Culturally sensitive and trauma-informed approaches must be adopted to address the unique challenges and experiences faced by individuals in the Black community. Creating a mentally healthy society necessitates prioritizing education and awareness. A utopian vision for mental health in the Black community involves breaking down the stigma associated with seeking help and promoting mental health literacy. Comprehensive mental health education should be integrated into school curricula, community programs, and media campaigns to foster understanding and empathy. Strong community support networks play a pivotal role in promoting optimal mental health. Utopia lies in building resilient and interconnected communities within the Black population. Establishing safe spaces, peer support groups, and community centers that cater specifically to mental health needs can foster a sense of belonging, reduce isolation, and provide crucial support. An ideal vision for mental health care in the Black community embraces holistic approaches. Recognizing that mental health is intrinsically linked to other dimensions of well-being, such as physical health, spirituality, and cultural identity, holistic care ensures that all aspects of an individual’s life are considered. Incorporating culturally relevant practices and traditional healing methods can empower individuals and promote mental wellness. To achieve social justice for communities of color, mental health care and advocacy must go hand in hand. A utopian vision entails advocating for policy reforms that address systemic inequalities and promote equitable access to mental health services. This includes pushing for increased funding for community-based mental health programs, diversifying the mental health workforce, and addressing racial bias within healthcare systems. Utopia demands that socioeconomic disparities, which significantly impact mental health outcomes, be addressed. Initiatives promoting economic empowerment, job opportunities, and educational equity must be prioritized. By tackling structural inequities, we can create a foundation for optimal mental health in the Black community and foster social justice. A truly utopian vision acknowledges the intersectionality of identities and ensures inclusivity within mental health care and advocacy. Recognizing that individuals may face multiple forms of discrimination and marginalization, culturally competent services that address the diverse needs and experiences of the Black community are crucial. Efforts should be made to dismantle barriers based on gender, sexuality, disability, and other intersecting identities. In a utopian society, optimal mental health care for the Black community is characterized by comprehensive support, education, community engagement, holistic approaches, advocacy, and the elimination of socioeconomic disparities. Such a vision not only uplifts individuals but also fosters social justice for communities of color. Achieving this vision requires collective efforts from mental health professionals, policymakers, community leaders, and society as a whole. By striving towards this utopian vision, we can create a future where mental health disparities are eradicated, and all individuals can thrive regardless of their race or ethnicity.

I am excited to continue pursuing my passion while furthering my education. I bring years of professional experience from various music atmospheres like the Charlottesville Opera Education initiative, Capitol Opera Richmond and many well-established colleagues who speak highly of my work. With a reputation for focusing on providing a well-rounded education with practical application into the professional world, I feel this is a great fit for me as I look to broaden my education in an art form that has always been a major part of my life. I’m a perfect match because music is not just a hobby or a pastime, but my passion. This undeniable passion has grown as I have matured because music continues to be a teacher and therapist for me. My reliance on music as a source of strength began in my childhood. Since childhood, I frequently found myself overwhelmed by the idea of taking on a new project, whether this be as a performer or as a young adult trying to stake a claim in the world. I often find myself in a battle of uncertainty trying my best to avoid failures. Successes and failures while learning to play a variety of instruments and formal singing now gives me a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. Drawing on these experiences has taught me that hard work and perseverance increase proficiency leading to success. Music has improved how I defined failure both as a leader and team and has taught me how to overcome my need to continuously achieve perfection. Early in my life, when things did not go exactly as expected, I would perceive that as a failure. As musicians, we are taught to be critical of both ourselves and colleagues successes and that was usually difficult to deliver and accept. Countless hours of practice, rehearsals, auditions and peer evaluations continue to teach me that improvement is a success and seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome with patience and hard work. Music has been one of the biggest teachers for me in the area of improvement. It has taught me that to succeed you must acknowledge some successes will not always be welcomed. While I know there are so many musical genres I could choose to study, I am particularly interested in vocal performance and opera programs as I have had professional experience in this area. With my aspirations to continue into graduate studies, I believe that I would further enhance and hone my abilities through my participation. As a transfer student, I am eager to build on my professional knowledge and experience. I am especially looking forward to collaborating with other musicians while participating in performances and events. While I want to learn more about vocal performance and Opera, I am also excited to explore new genres and styles of music, broadening my appreciation for the art. In conclusion, I am committed to working hard and making the most of this opportunity. Music is my passion and teacher and I want to share that passion with others. I am confident that with dedication and hard work, I will be able to achieve my goals and become the best musician I can be.

I am excited to continue pursuing my passion while furthering my education. I bring years of professional experience from various music atmospheres like the Charlottesville Opera Education initiative, Capitol Opera Richmond and many well-established colleagues who speak highly of my work. With a reputation for focusing on providing a well-rounded education with practical application into the professional world, I feel this is a great fit for me as I look to broaden my education in an art form that has always been a major part of my life. I’m a perfect match because music is not just a hobby or a pastime, but my passion. This undeniable passion has grown as I have matured because music continues to be a teacher and therapist for me. My reliance on music as a source of strength began in my childhood. Since childhood, I frequently found myself overwhelmed by the idea of taking on a new project, whether this be as a performer or as a young adult trying to stake a claim in the world. I often find myself in a battle of uncertainty trying my best to avoid failures. Successes and failures while learning to play a variety of instruments and formal singing now gives me a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. Drawing on these experiences has taught me that hard work and perseverance increase proficiency leading to success. Music has improved how I defined failure both as a leader and team and has taught me how to overcome my need to continuously achieve perfection. Early in my life, when things did not go exactly as expected, I would perceive that as a failure. As musicians, we are taught to be critical of both ourselves and colleagues successes and that was usually difficult to deliver and accept. Countless hours of practice, rehearsals, auditions and peer evaluations continue to teach me that improvement is a success and seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome with patience and hard work. Music has been one of the biggest teachers for me in the area of improvement. It has taught me that to succeed you must acknowledge some successes will not always be welcomed. While I know there are so many musical genres I could choose to study, I am particularly interested in vocal performance and opera programs as I have had professional experience in this area. With my aspirations to continue into graduate studies, I believe that I would further enhance and hone my abilities through my participation. As a transfer student, I am eager to build on my professional knowledge and experience. I am especially looking forward to collaborating with other musicians while participating in performances and events. While I want to learn more about vocal performance and Opera, I am also excited to explore new genres and styles of music, broadening my appreciation for the art. In conclusion, I am committed to working hard and making the most of this opportunity. Music is my passion and teacher and I want to share that passion with others. I am confident that with dedication and hard work, I will be able to achieve my goals and become the best musician I can be.

I am excited to continue pursuing my passion while furthering my education. I bring years of professional experience from various music atmospheres like the Charlottesville Opera Education initiative, Capitol Opera Richmond and many well-established colleagues who speak highly of my work. With a reputation for focusing on providing a well-rounded education with practical application into the professional world, I feel this is a great fit for me as I look to broaden my education in an art form that has always been a major part of my life. I’m a perfect match because music is not just a hobby or a pastime, but my passion. This undeniable passion has grown as I have matured because music continues to be a teacher and therapist for me. My reliance on music as a source of strength began in my childhood. Since childhood, I frequently found myself overwhelmed by the idea of taking on a new project, whether this be as a performer or as a young adult trying to stake a claim in the world. I often find myself in a battle of uncertainty trying my best to avoid failures. Successes and failures while learning to play a variety of instruments and formal singing now gives me a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. Drawing on these experiences has taught me that hard work and perseverance increase proficiency leading to success. Music has improved how I defined failure both as a leader and team and has taught me how to overcome my need to continuously achieve perfection. Early in my life, when things did not go exactly as expected, I would perceive that as a failure. As musicians, we are taught to be critical of both ourselves and colleagues successes and that was usually difficult to deliver and accept. Countless hours of practice, rehearsals, auditions and peer evaluations continue to teach me that improvement is a success and seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome with patience and hard work. Music has been one of the biggest teachers for me in the area of improvement. It has taught me that to succeed you must acknowledge some successes will not always be welcomed. While I know there are so many musical genres I could choose to study, I am particularly interested in vocal performance and opera programs as I have had professional experience in this area. With my aspirations to continue into graduate studies, I believe that I would further enhance and hone my abilities through my participation. As a transfer student, I am eager to build on my professional knowledge and experience. I am especially looking forward to collaborating with other musicians while participating in performances and events. While I want to learn more about vocal performance and Opera, I am also excited to explore new genres and styles of music, broadening my appreciation for the art. In conclusion, I am committed to working hard and making the most of this opportunity. Music is my passion and teacher and I want to share that passion with others. I am confident that with dedication and hard work, I will be able to achieve my goals and become the best musician I can be.

I am excited to continue pursuing my passion while furthering my education. I bring years of professional experience from various music atmospheres like the Charlottesville Opera Education initiative, Capitol Opera Richmond and many well-established colleagues who speak highly of my work. With a reputation for focusing on providing a well-rounded education with practical application into the professional world, I feel this is a great fit for me as I look to broaden my education in an art form that has always been a major part of my life. I’m a perfect match because music is not just a hobby or a pastime, but my passion. This undeniable passion has grown as I have matured because music continues to be a teacher and therapist for me. My reliance on music as a source of strength began in my childhood. Since childhood, I frequently found myself overwhelmed by the idea of taking on a new project, whether this be as a performer or as a young adult trying to stake a claim in the world. I often find myself in a battle of uncertainty trying my best to avoid failures. Successes and failures while learning to play a variety of instruments and formal singing now gives me a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. Drawing on these experiences has taught me that hard work and perseverance increase proficiency leading to success. Music has improved how I defined failure both as a leader and team and has taught me how to overcome my need to continuously achieve perfection. Early in my life, when things did not go exactly as expected, I would perceive that as a failure. As musicians, we are taught to be critical of both ourselves and colleagues successes and that was usually difficult to deliver and accept. Countless hours of practice, rehearsals, auditions and peer evaluations continue to teach me that improvement is a success and seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome with patience and hard work. Music has been one of the biggest teachers for me in the area of improvement. It has taught me that to succeed you must acknowledge some successes will not always be welcomed. While I know there are so many musical genres I could choose to study, I am particularly interested in vocal performance and opera programs as I have had professional experience in this area. With my aspirations to continue into graduate studies, I believe that I would further enhance and hone my abilities through my participation in this program. As a transfer student, I am eager to build on my professional knowledge and experience. I am especially looking forward to collaborating with other musicians while participating in performances and events. While I want to learn more about vocal performance and Opera, I am also excited to explore new genres and styles of music, broadening my appreciation for the art. In conclusion, I am committed to working hard and making the most of this opportunity. Music is my passion and teacher and I want to share that passion with others. I am confident that with dedication and hard work, I will be able to achieve my goals and become the best musician I can be.

I am excited to continue pursuing my passion while furthering my education. I bring years of professional experience from various music atmospheres like the Charlottesville Opera Education initiative, Capitol Opera Richmond and many well-established colleagues who speak highly of my work. With a reputation for focusing on providing a well-rounded education with practical application into the professional world, I feel this is a great fit for me as I look to broaden my education in an art form that has always been a major part of my life. I’m a perfect match because music is not just a hobby or a pastime, but my passion. This undeniable passion has grown as I have matured because music continues to be a teacher and therapist for me. My reliance on music as a source of strength began in my childhood. Since childhood, I frequently found myself overwhelmed by the idea of taking on a new project, whether this be as a performer or as a young adult trying to stake a claim in the world. I often find myself in a battle of uncertainty trying my best to avoid failures. Successes and failures while learning to play a variety of instruments and formal singing now gives me a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. Drawing on these experiences has taught me that hard work and perseverance increase proficiency leading to success. Music has improved how I defined failure both as a leader and team and has taught me how to overcome my need to continuously achieve perfection. Early in my life, when things did not go exactly as expected, I would perceive that as a failure. As musicians, we are taught to be critical of both ourselves and colleagues successes and that was usually difficult to deliver and accept. Countless hours of practice, rehearsals, auditions and peer evaluations continue to teach me that improvement is a success and seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome with patience and hard work. Music has been one of the biggest teachers for me in the area of improvement. It has taught me that to succeed you must acknowledge some successes will not always be welcomed. While I know there are so many musical genres I could choose to study, I am particularly interested in vocal performance and opera programs as I have had professional experience in this area. With my aspirations to continue into graduate studies, I believe that I would further enhance and hone my abilities through my participation in this program. As a transfer student, I am eager to build on my professional knowledge and experience. I am especially looking forward to collaborating with other musicians while participating in performances and events. While I want to learn more about vocal performance and Opera, I am also excited to explore new genres and styles of music, broadening my appreciation for the art. In conclusion, I am committed to working hard and making the most of this opportunity. Music is my passion and teacher and I want to share that passion with others. I am confident that with dedication and hard work, I will be able to achieve my goals and become the best musician I can be.

I am excited to continue pursuing my passion while furthering my education. I bring years of professional experience from various music atmospheres like the Charlottesville Opera Education initiative, Capitol Opera Richmond and many well-established colleagues speak highly of this program and its renowned faculty. With a reputation for focusing on providing a well-rounded education with practical application into the professional world, I feel this is a great fit for me as I look to broaden my education of an art form that has always been a major part of my life. I’m a perfect match because music is not just a hobby or a pastime, but my passion.. This undeniable passion has grown as I have matured because music continues to be a teacher and therapist for me. My reliance on music as a source of strength began in my childhood. Since childhood, I frequently found myself overwhelmed by the idea of taking on a new project, whether this be as a performer or as a young adult trying to stake a claim in the world. I often find myself in a battle of uncertainty trying my best to avoid failures. Successes and failures while learning to play a variety of instruments and formal singing now gives me a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. Drawing on these experiences have taught me that hard work and perseverance increase proficiency leading to success. Music has improved how I defined failure both as a leader and team and has taught me how to overcome my need to continuously achieve perfection. Early in my life, when things did not go exactly as expected, I would perceive that as a failure. As musicians, we are taught to be critical of both ourselves and colleagues successes and that was usually difficult to deliver and accept. Countless hours of practice, rehearsals, auditions and peer evaluations continue to teach me that improvement is a success and seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome with patience and hard work. Music has been one of the biggest teachers for me in the area of improvement. It has taught me that in order to succeed you must acknowledge some successes will not always be welcomed.

“Commitment to the profession” and “Commitment to the student” are principles emphasized in the National Education Association's “Code of Ethics and Moral Responsibilities.” Within these two principles, a single point remains apparent; a teacher is meant to do everything in their power to nurture the pursuit of knowledge and the devotion to excellence. Oxford Dictionary defines a teacher as, “someone who gives instruction through example or experience.” This means that a teacher will work assiduously to create an environment suitable for all who are willing to seek knowledge and better themselves. Consistent with NEA principles, my goal as an educator is to create an environment in which the students can feel open and value each other’s curiosity and encourage one another to go forward in a positive learning process. My goal is to develop critical-thinking, creative, well-rounded adults who will make the future better. Therefore, I personally resonate with the progressivism philosophy of teaching. Progressivists focus on the welfare of the child rather than exclusively on content. This philosophy stresses the idea that students should actively be testing ideas through experimentation and relating concepts to a “real-world” context. This system encourages students to become problem solvers who discern meaning through their experiences whether this is in a physical or cultural context. Music aligns with this because it promotes the ideas of “whole-brain,” abstract thinking, multicultural understanding, and self-expression. It is the job of the music educator to create effective and meaningful experiences through advocacy of their program so that all students have the opportunity to express themselves through music. I feel that teaching in the vein of progressivism embodies this principle. Progressivism encourages teachers to cater their curriculum toward the interest of the students, their questions, as well as the wide array of cultural perspectives. This allows students to study subject matter systematically; this also puts an emphasis on processing how people learn and accrue knowledge. I knew from a very young age that I was meant to be a guide for individuals in need of a familiar face and understanding. I have had several mentors who have helped me prosper throughout my life. Proverbs 27: 17 says,” As iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Education is an outlet that would allow me to continue my service professionally and on a grander scale. Ultimately, my goal as an educator is to take what knowledge I have amassed and pass it on.

I am excited to continue pursuing my passion while furthering my education. I bring years of professional experience from various music atmospheres like the Charlottesville Opera Education initiative, Capitol Opera Richmond and many well-established colleagues speak highly of this program and its renowned faculty. With a reputation for focusing on providing a well-rounded education with practical application into the professional world, I feel this is a great fit for me as I look to broaden my education in an art form that has always been a major part of my life. I’m a perfect match because music is not just a hobby or a pastime, but my passion. This undeniable passion has grown as I have matured because music continues to be a teacher and therapist for me. My reliance on music as a source of strength began in my childhood. Since childhood, I frequently found myself overwhelmed by the idea of taking on a new project, whether this be as a performer or as a young adult trying to stake a claim in the world. I often find myself in a battle of uncertainty trying my best to avoid failures. Successes and failures while learning to play a variety of instruments and formal singing now gives me a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. Drawing on these experiences has taught me that hard work and perseverance increase proficiency leading to success. Music has improved how I defined failure both as a leader and team and has taught me how to overcome my need to continuously achieve perfection. Early in my life, when things did not go exactly as expected, I would perceive that as a failure. As musicians, we are taught to be critical of both ourselves and colleagues successes and that was usually difficult to deliver and accept. Countless hours of practice, rehearsals, auditions and peer evaluations continue to teach me that improvement is a success and seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome with patience and hard work. Music has been one of the biggest teachers for me in the area of improvement. It has taught me that to succeed you must acknowledge some successes will not always be welcomed. While I know there are so many musical genres I could choose to study, I am particularly interested in vocal performance and opera programs as I have had professional experience in this area. With my aspirations to continue into graduate studies, I believe that I would further enhance and hone my abilities through my participation in this program. As a transfer student, I am eager to build on my professional knowledge and experience. I am especially looking forward to collaborating with other musicians while participating in performances and events. While I want to learn more about vocal performance and Opera, I am also excited to explore new genres and styles of music, broadening my appreciation for the art. In conclusion, I am committed to working hard and making the most of this opportunity. Music is my passion and teacher and I want to share that passion with others. I am grateful for the chance to continue pursuing it at such a prestigious institution. I am confident that with dedication and hard work, I will be able to achieve my goals and become the best musician I can be.