I became an active member of the Red Cross Club, formed a band to perform at school shows, helped raise money for the Haitian flood relief, and auditioned and joined as many vocal groups as possible -- including the California All State Choir. I am now a senior and do not even recognize that freshman who flew into Pebble Beach from Asia. I am enrolled in three AP courses; English, Economics and Music Theory. I study because I want to, and glean intellectual satisfaction from my participation in these courses. I am the lead tenor for the Jazz Choir, and lead guitarist for the Jazz Band. I enjoy physical challenges as well, and am one of the student leaders for the Rock Climbing Club. A few years ago, receiving a B. would have been a gift from heaven -- now it is a terrifying prospect. I have a group of friends that are academically like-minded,...

They have helped me establish goal oriented behavior, a service attitude, and aided in my transformation out of despair.
My own story is somewhat the epitome of what is possible with the right stimuli, attitude, and circumstances. I was indeed fortunate enough to have the support of parents, faculty, and peers to help turn my life around. It is now time, though, to continue this progress -- to "Pay it Forward," if you will. I realize that in order to actualize, it is important that I continue my education to the next level, that I participate in the community and music activities that have become so important to my life, and that I continue to move in a direction that takes into consideration that one person can make a difference in the world -- as long as one is focused in the right direction.