Becoming Your Better Self by Corey

Becoming Your Better Self by Corey - January 2017 Scholarship Essay

“Why put off something until tomorrow, when it can be done today?” is the motto I have gained as a result from the opportunities where I volunteer for the betterment of people in the community. These experiences are so valuable that I have cultivated a friend group based on the principals of volunteering and helping others, which has had an immense impact in not only my life, but the lives of individuals I’ve influenced. It all started with the many extra-curricular and volunteer activities I have participated in at the University of Wisconsin La Crosse and the surrounding community. Although all of these activities have a positive impact on me, one undertaking has influenced me and others on many levels.
First and foremost, I direct a choir named Bella Voce which is a small a Capella choir I created that meets once a week outside of academic hours to prepare music that we take on tour to perform at places in the community. In this voluntarily position, I educate a group of young singers to sing not only great music, but I emphasis the importance to each member of becoming the best possible version of themselves. The results have been amazing, and slowly, more and more members are going out and volunteering on their own. They see how volunteering has a positive impact in their own lives and then in turn, they influence others to join them. One example I can share is when we went to an assisted living center not far from campus and sang uplifting music to the residents, then stayed and played board games afterwards. Everyone was so happy and joyful to be interacting with these young and talented students. The reward we received after this event was the feeling of joy and a general companionship for the senior citizens in our community. Our ensemble is growing weekly and is reaching out more and more.
Finally, this coming semester we will focus on assisting with our local salvation army, feeding and helping the homeless. Each member of Bella Voce will have a chance to bring a friend and sing a tune while serving the public, spreading the joy that comes with volunteering. Being a part of this group will help each member and myself excel when we become a functioning part in society as we continue to do great things. Singing and music is a universal language that everyone can emotionally relate to that also brings joy to people who are in need of inspiration. These acts of kindness are something that speaks directly to our characters and something we can all do today. So, why put it off until tomorrow?