Akiya Colyar- Scholarship Essay. by Akiya

Akiya Colyar- Scholarship Essay. by Akiya - May 2023 Scholarship Essay

Hi, My name is Akiya Colyar and I am 18 years old! I am an actress, Vocalist, model, and motivational speaker. Briefly, here is why I want to pursue a college degree. I’ve been acting since the age of 7 and singing since the age of 3! I am a young lady who is focused and determined. Born extremely premature at 24 weeks and weighing in at 800 grams, I entered the world ahead of time with a purpose in life. A six year commitment started at 9 years old. I auditioned for a professional kids choir ages 7-17 that travels throughout the world and different countries. I was selected for Soprano-Mezzo in 2015 and started my vocal journey from there. This faith based organization taught me hard work, big commitment, responsibility, to be quick with learning notes, lyrics, choreographed dance moves and discipline. We rehearsed twice a week for three hours and sometimes we rehearsed for 8 hours straight (when a big performance was coming up). Music brings joy to me and I can express myself through music. Most people have mentioned how my voice is powerful and gives them goosebumps. I would be a reliable asset for your scholarship because I remain humble, sweet and I’m always ready for new projects, while maintaining my 4.3 GPA. At 16 years old, I wrote a single called ‘’DONE’’ and I was selected to sing it on WGN News and I also performed for JB Pritzker’s Inauguration back in 2018. I have shared the stage with artist Aretha Franklin, Andrea Day, Jordan Smith, Mary Mary, Cece Winnans, etc. I have performed on Windy City Live 4x. With this scholarship, I would like to further my education in acting on camera and Music. Attending La'Verne ( My future college ) would define and achieve academic and personal goals.

Acting has always been a passion of mine and I adore it. Acting never feels like a job to me because I enjoy myself so much. Being able to prepare my lines, portray another character, and step into that headspace before a hard scene. Furthermore, I have 3 IMDB credits featured on shows Chicago Fire, Chicago PD, Chicago Med, THE CHI ( CO-STAR), Empire, Lovecraft Country, etc. I performed background vocals for Jussie Smollet (Born To Win Track) on Empire for FOX, in addition to featuring in the movie ‘’Rampage’’ starring Dewayne (Rock) Johnson. I have also taken acting classes, improv classes, voice lessons since 6 years old, and songwriting camp. I'm very dedicated to my craft and I’m always finding new ways to become better at it! My past has prepared me because I have a lot of experience with my talent. Performing with different artists, being on camera, behind the camera, acting classes, vocal coaching for singing, professional kids choir, performing for over 1,000 crowds, etc. In addition, I am extremely good at being on set and balancing my school work. I’m a hard worker and very good at time management! My academic goal for college is to pursue my passion while preparing for the future, enhance my craft, graduate, be inspiring, and to teach the younger generation to follow their dreams.