Music & mentorship
Finding a
shared rhythm.
I’ve been drumming since I was seven. From finding my place in a new school’s marching band to founding drumline clinics, music has become a way to connect—and help others feel they belong.
Monte Vista High School Marching Band
Part of the line.
When I joined Monte Vista’s marching band in 2023, I already had years of drumming experience, but I didn’t initially make the snare line. I found another way forward, playing marimba and then bass drum before earning a place on snare.
Each instrument taught me to listen differently within the ensemble. Now, as Vice Drumline Leader in grades 11 and 12, I help organize rehearsals and support communication between our directors and students.
A lifelong rhythm
I began playing drums at seven, long before joining my high school marching band.
Marimba
My first place in the band, after I didn’t initially make the snare line.
Bass drum
Another step toward snare, building timing and coordination across the drumline.
Snare & section leadership
Supporting rehearsals and helping fellow musicians prepare together.
Founder · Drumline clinics
A place to
belong.
As a new immigrant, I remember feeling lost in the band room. Later, volunteering at our one-week pre-season camp made me want to offer something more sustained and open to students beyond the band. I founded drumline clinics with friends for freshmen and interested eighth graders.
We began with stories and our drumline’s warm-up word game, making room for laughter before technique. Alongside personalized guidance on rhythm and drumming, I shared what I had learned about finding my place in high school. Soon, students were asking about classes and clubs, sharing their lives, and growing more confident.
Across the clinics, I have coached around 20 students. Three have returned as mentors, helping build a community where newcomers can find support and eventually offer it to others.
Music in the community
I also perform with a band for residents at a local senior home, alongside volunteering with technology assistance workshops.
Sharing music
in China.
I extended the clinics to my former school in China, helping train its marching band. Between rehearsals, students preparing to study abroad asked about starting over in a new country. I shared my own struggles and reassured them that they could find their people, too.
Short performance clip from the volunteer experience.