Dear Presser Foundation,
My name is Shayna Singer, and I am a senior in the class of 2024 studying vocal performance and choral music education! I am originally from Manhattan but moved to Delray Beach, Florida when I was eleven. I attended the Special Music School in NYC from grades K-5, where I studied piano, and my love for music and performing ultimately bloomed. When I relocated to Florida, I worried about finding opportunities to perform and advance my musical studies. Still, I quickly realized there was so much waiting for me to experience.
Although I am studying vocal performance and was accepted into that program, I loved to perform piano until my junior year of high school and was convinced that it was what I wanted to do. At the end of my high school career, I began to sing in my school’s opera as a lead and conducted my choir throughout the year. Additionally, I started a music education program at a foster care village in my community. When I first visited FSU to have a sample voice lesson with a professor, I knew that FSU was the perfect school for me. The diversity of music ensembles, classes, and programs combined with a focus on your specific instrument helped me realize that FSU is a place where I will thrive as a musician and performer.
Since this first year was during a time of uncertainty, one thing I know for sure is that the FSU College of Music will be my forever home and where I have become the best musician I could be. This past year, I have participated in several choral ensembles, joined Sigma Alpha Iota, an international music fraternity, was offered a job opportunity working as a University Ambassador at the Office of Admissions, and even won second place in a U.S Regional Voice Competition! Although this past year has brought many ups and downs, I have enjoyed my time at FSU incredibly. I cannot wait to see what the future brings.
I am incredibly grateful to be offered this scholarship as it will help me pursue my love for music and provide financial comfort to my family and me. This scholarship means so much to me, and I am genuinely thankful for this opportunity to further my musical studies at one of the best music schools. After my father’s passing last summer, school has been a financial challenge for me and my family, and this scholarship has truly helped me continue through my final year.
Wishing happiness and health during these times,
Shayna Lian Singer
