Meet Skyler—alumnus, student, musician, and proud Angeleno

As was the case for so many of us, the COVID-19 pandemic threw Skyler a huge curveball. Instead of heading out of state like he planned for the traditional university experience, he's here at home, attending online classes at his local community college.

"It was a blessing in disguise," he asserts. Rather than spreading his wings, he's been putting down even deeper roots here in Los Angeles as he leans into his passion for music.

From the 6th grade, Skyler has been part of Harmony Project, ultimately mastering the bass, which is no small feat. "It's a big instrument and you exercise your whole body to play it." He loved the opportunities to tour as a musician and play with the LA Philharmonic as a member of our YOLA at EXPO program. But, most of all, he's enjoyed connecting with his creativity and dreaming of the future.

As he works towards getting the credits he needs to transfer and earn a BA in music performance at USC or UCLA, Skyler is also working on knocking out classes for an AA in nursing. And as time goes on, he's eager to branch out from classical music and explore other music scenes.

Above all, he wants to spread the message of finding and pursuing your joy. "Don't get stuck in your shell. Do what makes you happy."