4 years ago, I never would have imagined my life would have taken this path.

4 years ago, I was about to be a freshman in high school.

4 years ago, I was a 14 year old who was dead set on attending The University of Oklahoma to be a meteorologist.

4 years ago, I met an incredible family who took me to my first Oklahoma State Football game. I'm forever grateful for their love and support and little did I know, they were showing me my future. They told me of a music camp happening at Oklahoma State and I couldn't pass up the opportunity to further my musicianship. After the week, I got addicted; I have been, and attended every year since.

Fast forward to a year ago, year three of music camp. I got the privilege of meeting one of the most influential people that truly changed my perspective. A year ago, I was dead set on going to The University of Oklahoma for Elementary Music Education. Somehow, this individual convinced me that Oklahoma State is the place for me to be. Even though they weren't here this year, (and are missing out!) I'm so grateful this person will be in the Cowboy Marching Band with me this fall.

Year four of camp has allowed me to get to know my professors and faculty in the music department which is something few kids get to do before college starts.

Looking back, I have an incredible friend in orchestra at Oklahoma State University because I didn't know anyone that first year. We got to be roommates for 2 years at camp, which is mind blowing and I've met numerous OSU students through her as well. During year 3 I roomed with someone I knew well but I met plenty of other musicians as well. Year 4 brought numerous changes because we are staying in a different dorm. It was another potluck year for a roommate, but I gained an incredible friend. I hope she can use the camp experience in a similar way I did.

It's still insane my whole future began with a simple music camp in 2016. I have high hopes to be able to help with camp next year. This camp has impacted more than just my future, it's helped me become who I am and who I am meant to be.