Sameer Kuriyan, Millburn HS, NJYS
As a representative of the first Wharton Arts Student Leadership Alliance, I’ve learned and grown in unimaginable ways. I’ve enjoyed many transformative experiences and opportunities for musical and personal development in the New Jersey Symphony alone. Working across all four of Wharton Arts’ flagship programs has offered an instrumental (pun intended) leadership experience rich in breadth and depth, a fitting climax to my musical journey with Wharton Arts.
WASLA emboldens me to zoom out from the frame of my individual ensemble to interact with the greater Wharton Arts ecosystem. Team-working with each family under the guiding hands of their mentors enriches my understanding of the nuts and bolts of our nonprofit’s personal mission, fundraising efforts, and organizational infrastructures. From co-creating impactful performances to expediting internal development and community integration, operating from a bird’s-eye view helps magnify my tremendous appreciation of Wharton Arts’ pledge to musical empowerment. I am grateful.