I did not view my talent as superior over anyone at school, but unfortunately some of my peers who were already involved in acting and singing from an earlier age were very disapproving about my participation in anything related to acting and singing. They viewed me as competition where as I viewed them as a resource. At first, experiencing others disapprove and ignore you because of your talent or act as if you are unequal was very hurtful. I have realized that while they focus on tearing my talent away from me and I continue to develop my talent, I will ultimately have the greater success. As I continued to work on my vocal ability, success came. As a freshman I received an “Outstanding” or 2 rating, the second best rating at the 2013 MSHSAA District Music Festival for my two solos. I knew that I was just cultivating my talent and that I had to continue to grow. I have been selected to perform with the 2013, 2014, and 2015 St. Louis Metro District Honor Choir, and received an “Exemplary” or 1 rating, the highest rating at the 2015 MSHSAA District Music Festival. I received a 2 at the 2015 MSHSAA State Festival, but I will be back in 2016 for that 1 rating. I have made it this far in a relatively short amount of time and will push myself to do even better. This experience has taught me that with effort and determination that I can achieve my