1. My STEP Signature Project involved learning to play the electric guitar with the guidance of Snake Rock, a former musician and lifelong guitarist. The main activities included guitar lessons consisting of exploring different techniques, scales, and music genres. STEP provided necessary funding that allowed me to pursue this passion and develop a skill that I might not have prioritized otherwise.
2. Through my STEP Signature Project, I experienced a significant transformation in my understanding of myself and my view of the world. Learning to play the electric guitar not only improved my musical abilities but also boosted my self-confidence and sense of accomplishment. As someone who used to hesitate in trying new things or pursuing artistic interests, this experience challenged my assumptions about my capabilities and opened my eyes to the value of stepping outside my comfort zone. I discovered a newfound appreciation for creativity and self-expression, realizing that there’s so much more to college life than just my pursuits in engineering.
3. Several events, interactions, and relationships during my STEP Signature Project contributed to this transformation. The guidance and mentorship of Snake Rock played a crucial role in instilling a sense of discipline and dedication in my guitar practice. His passion for music was infectious, and observing his love for what he does inspired me to pursue my own artistic passions fearlessly. I was constantly amazed by the incredible stories that he shared with me. Interacting with fellow guitar enthusiasts, both during my time with Snake and at other music-related events, exposed me to diverse perspectives and musical influences, broadening my horizons and challenging my previous notions about music and the electric guitar.
Moreover, the process of learning a new skill demanded patience and perseverance, teaching me the importance of resilience and continuous growth. Overcoming challenges in mastering complex techniques or memorizing songs taught me that progress is a result of consistent effort and not immediate perfection. These experiences encouraged me to embrace failure as a steppingstone towards improvement, a lesson that extends beyond the realm of music and into various aspects of life.
Meanwhile, throughout the course of this summer, I developed another meaningful relationship during my internship at Lincoln Electric. Over the past few months, I formed friendships with several colleagues, including Eric, a coworker who turned out to be a talented musician in a local rock band. He kindly invited me to attend one of their shows, which also happened to be my first-ever concert. Witnessing Eric’s guitar performance on stage was truly awe-inspiring. His remarkable talent, coupled with the passion and excitement that permeated the crowd, made the evening truly unforgettable. Although I may never grace the stage like Eric does, the profound impact of his performance motivated me to commit to daily practice on my own musical journey. Since that night, I’ve been fortunate to attend several more concerts, all for different bands, and I’m eager to continue diversifying my musical experiences every day.
4. The transformation I underwent during my STEP Signature Project holds immense significance for my life and future. Music has always been an integral part of who I am, and playing the guitar allows me to express myself creatively and find solace amidst the pressures of academic and work life. Engaging in music provides a valuable outlet for stress and enhances my overall well-being. As I continue to nurture this skill, I envision incorporating music into my academic and professional pursuits, exploring ways to merge my passion for music with my career aspirations. In fact, I have already committed to plans for winter break: using my electrical engineering knowledge, I will be building my own electric guitar, and I am beyond excited for that opportunity to arrive.
Furthermore, the newfound self-confidence I gained through this project has positively impacted my personal relationships and social interactions. I feel more comfortable connecting with others who share similar interests and exploring new opportunities that were once beyond my comfort zone. Additionally, participating in weekly practices with my housemates at OSU represents a continuation of my musical journey and offers a chance to collaborate with fellow musicians, fostering a new sense of community and camaraderie.
(I got this one-of-a-kind custom guitar from Mr. Snake Rock)