Undergraduate / My life devoted to the art of music - FSU Admissions Essay [5]

For almost one hundred years, the Latin words, "Vires, Artes, Mores" have been the guiding philosophy behind Florida State University. Vires signifies strength of all kinds - moral, physical, and intellectual; Artes alludes to the beauty of intellectual pursuits as exemplified in skill, craft, or art; and Mores refers to character, custom, or tradition.

Describe how one or more of the values embodied in these concepts are reflected in your life.

For the past seven years I have devoted my life to the art of music. Within those seven years I have gained a respect, love and dedication to the art. As a musician I've been able to find beauty within my skill and have embarked on a life long journey to improve and share the craft. Florida State Universities Latin word "Artes" defines my life as a musician in the utmost manner. Due to my musical career I've been capable of exemplifying this respectable philosophy throughout my life.

In life I have many hobbies; I enojy helping people, learing new things, a good game of basketball, giving friends advice, and even a slurpee on a hot day. In my life, music has always been fundamental. When I think about the definition of 'Artes', I can't help but think about my musical career, and how essential it was and is to my upbringing. Even before I acquired the talent of playing and performing music it was always something that I couldn't live without. When I picked up a trombone for the first time in sixth grade it was as if my hands, and my heart in some way, were super glued to the instrument. Better yet, the moment I played a note I knew I wanted to live the rest of my life through music. Now with seven years under my belt I have developed both physically and emotionally through music. I have also gained the security of knowing what I want to do and where I would like to go through music.

My life has been able to exemplify the philosophy of "Artes" by allowing me to express what I believe to be beauty by my skill, craft and art; my music. My musical ability is a skill that I have developed through years of training. It's beautiful because everday of my life I'm able to express myself in a way that the common individual cannot. The craft of my musicianship is something that I have been and will be developing throughout my entire life. It's beautiful because I can carve it in anyway I choose based on life experiences. Music is my art because it's something that I create and put on display. It's beautiful because it allows me to tell stories which have afftected my life and at the same time allows idividuals to create they're own storys based on notes and rhythms, not just words.

Florida State Universities philosophy of "Vires, Artes, Mores" is an accurate reflection of my general life. The philosophy of "Artes" specifically is reflected by my passion for music. Receiving the privilege of attending Florida Sate University will allow me to be able to diplay the respected philosophy in my everyday life. I am now a senior looking for a college to continue expanding my musical abilities. I am certain the Florida State University is capable of giving me everything I need and more to reach my goal and beyond.

Any input on how to improve is greatly appreciated.