Imagine-An Opportunity to Teach the Kids and Change the World by Connor

Imagine-An Opportunity to Teach the Kids and Change the World by Connor - October 2016 Scholarship Essay

As a toddler, I was known to energetically sing "Old Time Rock-n-Roll" as my mother strolled me through busy places of commerce. It was a song that brought much joy to those around me, even in the busiest of places and seasons. From that time, I have sought to bring joy and beauty into the world through music. For that reason, I would love the opportunity to "reverse the roles" of my life and teach music to students of all ages and stages. The song which would now be my mantra, however, would be "Imagine" by John Lennon.

Imagine the impact a music teacher can have on the life of a young Latino male, like myself, who is considering joining a gang in order to have a place of security and an apparent purpose in life- a "band of brotherhood." This teacher can steer the young man toward membership in a band which seeks true harmony and cooperation in life.

Imagine the impact a music teacher can have on the young girl who can't stop hearing voices in her head-voices that lie to her and tell her she is invaluable and insufficient. This teacher can encourage this young girl to lift her voice and to speak to others from her place of brokenness.

Imagine the impact a music teacher can have on the life of a precious special-needs teen who has no place to shine and succeed in life. This teacher can encourage and invite this teen to Very Special Arts music programs where he or she can bask in the glow of bringing joy to others through music.

Imagine what a privilege it would be to stand in the shoes of that teacher. Imagine that the music teacher was me!