Tell us a little bit about yourself and your plans for college.

Creativity, to me, has always been a natural occurrence. From as early as I can remember, I was drawn to all things art. In first grade, I moved on from drawing stick figures like the rest of my peers. In second grade, I made portraits of each of my family members. In third grade, I started creative writing. In fifth grade, I began my journey with makeup artistry as a new medium. In middle school, I discovered my love for music. From, violin, to cello, to saxophone I fell deeply in love with the way notes and rhythms become melodies. The lifting of my middle school’s dress code also allowed me to express myself through clothes and fashion. In tenth grade, I took my first drama class. Through Drama 1 I became a skilled improviser and learned the importance of committing to the choices you make, not only in improv but in life as well. In junior year I performed my first-ever solo concert with all my original songs. I was able to share a part of my passion with the rest of the world. In my senior year of high school, I am taking my first-ever art class. Despite growing up without the means to learn all of the things I love through professional courses, I was lucky enough to still be able to create and learn about art in many different forms. Through every one of these experiences, I have been able to achieve more than I ever thought possible. Through the support of this scholarship, I will be able to finance my education and continue my creative journey further. Aside from my participation in the music programs at Cal High, I also spent my time here participating in Condor Connections, a tutoring program, ComedySportz, an improv-based competitive group, Track and Field, Spanish Club, and Fashion Club and managed to work 2 jobs on top of all of that. I am fortunate enough to have an amazing support system, that motivates me to handle anything I put my mind to. College will allow me to hone my skills and truly flourish as a person.

VALERIA from California
High School Senior
California High School