What is the one thing that you think sets you apart from other candidates applying to the University of California? (350)
I was five years old. My dad and I were driving while listening to a beautiful Indian song. Suddenly, he turned down the music and asked, “What activities interest you? What classes do you want to take?” Upset that my favorite lyrics were inaudible, I blurted out, “I want to learn to sing Indian music.” He looked at me, surprised, and kept driving. I reached to increase the stereo volume, unaware that this was the beginning of my long-term relationship with Indian music.
Twelve years later, I’m still devotedly learning the nuanced compositions of Carnatic music. Whether it be keeping track of the Thala by patting my thigh with my right hand in a distinctive pattern, or staying in Shruti by picturing each note and its respective pitch as it comes out of my mouth, my mind is completely engaged. This complex music is my stress-relieving escape to an alternate universe.
Two years ago, I was preparing for my first statewide competition. Even though I practiced repeatedly, I was still not able to adequately express the betrayal that the singer, a devotee of Goddess Uma, felt. On competition day, I walked on stage, my legs trembling and eyes watery. If I could not convey the devotee’s emotion when practicing, how could I now? In the audience, I then saw my teacher and mother and saw the thought of how disappointed they would feel if I gave up. Then, I saw the faces of strangers in the audience and imagined all the times in which they felt sorrow and betrayal. That was it--I sang the devotee’s first sorrowful note and ended in triumph.
This first competition was personal milestone that I had where I effectively conveyed the feelings of this song to the audience. I enjoy Carnatic music not only because of its complexity, but also because it has taught me to empathize with others. A journey that began after an impulsive decision at a young age became one of the utmost passions of my life, and I am excited to continue to develop this skill throughout college and beyond.
Word Count: 349