I often find myself reflecting on why I pursue musical theatre so passionately. It's not an easy path; there are setbacks and uncertainties, and logically, there might be more secure career options. Yet, deep down, I cannot envision myself doing anything else. Theatre has always felt like my true calling, my sanctuary. From the age of seven, I was drawn to the stage. It provided solace, a place where I felt truly alive. While some shied away from the spotlight, I thrived in it. Performing was more than just a hobby; it was my escape from the challenges of life. My mother recognized this early on and enrolled me in dance and gymnastics classes, nurturing my passion. Theatre, for me, was a sacred space. I vividly remember a teacher telling me, "You have to wipe your feet at the door." Those words resonated deeply. Stepping into a theatre meant leaving behind the troubles of the outside world and immersing myself in something magical. Onstage, I discovered a profound sense of self-awareness. I realized that to truly connect with an audience, I had to break down the walls I'd built around myself. Theatre became a catalyst for personal growth; I worked on becoming more authentic both onstage and off. The journey of self-discovery through acting became a cornerstone of my artistic journey. The beauty of the arts lies in their endless capacity for learning. I'm drawn to the idea of being a lifelong student, continually honing my craft. In the theatre, every experience, whether as a performer or spectator, offers invaluable lessons. Some of my most cherished moments have been observing others at work, absorbing insights that enrich my own practice. Theatre, unlike some art forms, thrives on sharing. It's a collaborative endeavor, a dialogue between performers and audience. Without spectators, the essence of theatre would be lost. Each time I step onto the stage, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to touch the lives of others, even if only for a fleeting moment. I am driven by a desire to give audiences an unforgettable experience, to leave them feeling uplifted and inspired. And in return, witnessing the transformative power of theatre enriches my own life immeasurably. Theatre has a unique ability to shape perspectives, to provoke thought and emotion in ways that few other mediums can. That is ultimately what I wish to accomplish in the long term. After college I hope to move to New York City and begin auditioning for as many shows as possible. You can never stop learning how to move forward in this art form and because of that, I want to continue to take classes in singing, dancing, and acting. I want to pursue this fully because while this industry is full of no's, one yes can change your life. In essence, theatre is a delicate balance of entertainment and enlightenment. It's a celebration of the human experience, a testament to our shared humanity. And for me, there's no greater privilege than being a part of it.