Anne Marie Kawai

Anne Marie KawaiAnne Marie started her journey off to college in the Fall of 2009. As a freshman at Chapman University, she plans to pursue her love for music with a double major in music education and music perfomance (double bass).

"After receiving my degree, I envision continuing my education by receiving my teaching credentials and a master’s degree in education," she said. "I hope to one day become a high school music teacher in Orange County having the opportunity to expose my students to the wonderful world of music."

Getting to know Anne Marie ... Some Q & A's

Why did you apply for this scholarship?

My parents are always thinking about my brother and I by sacrificing a large part of their lives to help the both of us.  They have always wanted the best for us and college is no different. I applied for this scholarship because I want to contribute as much as possible to my education and lessen the financial burden for my parents.

What did receiving this scholarship from the Relief Association mean to you?

As a recipient of the Relief Association Scholarship, I recognize that I have been bestowed the honor of representing all of the applicants and members of the Relief Association. The Association is a very special organization that was created by and for the benefit of the entire "fire department family." 

My Grandfather passed away this past April 2009, and during his last several months of his life, he required a special apparatus: a hospital bed, walker and hoist. The Relief Association came to my grandfather’s aid and made his last days much more pleasant with their assistance. As a Relief Association Scholarship winner, I will always remember that I represent not only the Kawai family, but also the Los Angeles Fireman’s Relief Association family. Receiving your scholarship and the assistance you gave my grandfather is very humbling and greatly appreciated. Your financial assistance will assist me in reaching my goal of becoming a music teacher and the distinction of being a Los Angeles Fireman’s Association Scholarship recipient.

How will this scholarship help you with your education?

With this scholarship, I will be able to focus more on my education rather than trying to work to make money for college while I’m in school getting my degrees.

What advice do you have for future scholarship recipients?

My advise to high school students is to enjoy the experience. Work hard and search for your passion, many times opportunities will present themselves as useless assignments and projects. It has been my experience that working hard and applying yourself to what ever you do does pay off. Recognition, pride in accomplishment and discovering yourself are a few of the benefits.  Following your dreams and working hard at something you are passionate about will create opportunities and will help define you as a person. 

How would you like to make a difference in this world and give back to your community?

By becoming a high school music teacher, I hope to help our future generations in the same way I was helped. My high school music teachers encouraged me to explore several forms of music: classical, jazz and pop to mention a few. Each class led to different opportunities, whether it was going to New York City and playing in Carnegie Hall, becoming a drum major for my high school marching band and marching down Main Street at Disneyland, performing a concert with other members of the All California State orchestra in Sacramento or playing jazz with a great brass section in Reno, it gave me the confidence to pursue my passion in music.

All of this has helped shape my personality and given me insight into what I really love to do. I am so grateful for all the doors that were opened for me during high school, and I hope that by becoming a music teacher I can help others discover their passions and share how much music means to me.