Through The Lens is our weekly series where we highlight current students and faculty, capture them on campus and ask them about their inspirations, advice and beyond.
1. Describe the moment/s when you knew that you wanted to study music further.
I have always known music was my path. I literally came out dancing and singing, from banging drums in my moms african dance class as a toddler, to spontaneously performing a solo of “You Are My Sunshine” at my grandfathers funeral when I was three. It’s in my bones.
2. How did music play a part in your family and/or upbringing?
Neither of my parents are musically gifted in the least , so I came as a true surprise to them. Luckily, I gave clear direction from a young age that this was my path and they were always supportive. I started my path with a creative arts preschool, which led into dance and singing lessons weekly, and I began my professional acting career at the age of 5. My parents toted me to lessons, auditions and even traveled regularly with me from Utah to L.A. for castings to support me in chasing my dreams. To this day, they are my biggest support and most loyal fans.
3. Which artist, band or composer would you most want to meet and collaborate with? Why?
I would absolutely LOVE to collaborate with Beyonce! She has always been a major idol of mine and it would be my dream for her to take me on as a mentee and creative project.
4. If there is one piece of advice that you could give to other [area of study] students, what would it be?
Don’t sit around and wait for it to happen. If you have a vision, put pen to paper, map it out, call in your team and bring it to life! You are the conductor of your train, lead with confidence and a strong vision and people will be honored to support. I am actually in the process of putting together an artist collective and accountability program to help artists in actualizing their big dreams, rather than just dreaming about them!
5. What the most important lesson you’ve learned at MI so far? What has surprised you the most about MI?
I loved building my relationship with the staff. MI has attracted a really eclectic and awesome panel of professors and I gained a lot of wisdom and perspective in getting to know them as well as had some cool opportunities open up through those connections.