Finding a Family by Rebecca

Finding a Family by Rebecca - December 2019 Scholarship Essay

My freshman year, I learned about our school's show choir- Phoenix Phame- when we all gathered to hear them sing to disabled students from another school. The music was gorgeous, the motivation was heartwarming, and in that moment, I knew I wanted to join Phame. Around a month later, I gathered the courage to audition. I was accepted!
When I joined that year, I was searching for a community. At the first rehearsal, there was no doubt I had found my place. Everyone was kind, supportive, and always complimented me on my dancing. They became a family. Half way through the second semester, my dad had a stroke which paralyzed his left side. While this was rough, the music teacher and other students encouraged me to stay strong, and helped me through this tough time. Phame provided a distraction. I'm glad to say that by the show in May, my dad was walking well enough again to come see the performance.
I'm now a senior, and can see how much this group has shaped me since then. Through this opportunity, I’ve grown more confident in myself, more social, and more well-rounded. I've never been content with my voice. However, Phoenix Phame has shown me that I have the talent and just need to believe in myself. We perform to bring joy to others through the beauty of the arts, and we achieve that every time we perform. I'm incredibly thankful to have been blessed with this experience, and am excited for my final Phame show this year.