I wanted to thank you for all the time and devotion you put into me, and your practices.

As I start my freshman year of college, I sit back and lean on the thoughts of high school, and how I miss it so. I sit and think about the teachers I have had over the past few years, and what impacts they have or have not made. Here I stand, on my own two feet without help, or guidance without you being by my side, making me laugh and pointing out the positives.

Today I was asked, "What is your passion?". I sat and thought about it. Here I am, in a school I did not think I would be in, taking up a major I did not want to many, many years back. I turned to the man who asked me the question and I said, "Music". I was given the weirdest look, because my major is now Biology. I guess a lot has changed in me.

I remember freshman year, starting chorus. A new atmosphere, the first time being around you on a daily basis, and being criticized (good and bad). I remember you calling me up to your desk, and asking, "What do you want to do after high school?" I just sat there blankly, and looked at you and said, "Music, it is what I love to do." You just stared as I walked away. After freshman year, you pressed harder and harder to make me perfect. You would yell, and remind me, that music was my passion, and you knew I could do it. Sophomore year was rough. You had me try out for solos (which I did not get, mind you.) You pushed me to the edge where I would go home and think and look at sheet music for hours upon hours. You told me, "You will not make it unless you practice, and apply yourself." Junior year came around, and I left your class. Not because I wanted to, just because it was not able to fit in my schedule. I remember seeing you in the halls, and I felt like I disappointed you. The good part of junior year was when you saw my true colors as I applied myself the most by auditioning for the talent show. You were surprised, but looked proud. That year, I came in second place. My last year of high school ended with me winning the talent show, showing off my true potential. You made me into the person I am today, and I thank you. I learned everything from you. I learned that everything will not work out in my favor, but if I try hard enough, I will accomplish anything I set my heart to.

So this is for you, Bryan Brophy. Thank you, and I understand what you meant by applying myself. I am a biology major, but I am starting an acoustic set with friends, and continuing music. In the end, I will never give up who I am and what I am meant to do.