Gloria doesn’t just have a passion for playing music; she wants to use that passion as a ministry to others. After high school graduation, the 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship recipient will be attending Faith Baptist Bible College for Women’s Ministry in Ankeny, Iowa. Read on for more of this flute player’s story.

What is your professional dream?

My professional dream is to work in a church one day and to be able to use my musical abilities to assist my church.

How will you use the 1,000 Dreams Scholarship?

I am using the scholarship to purchase a flute.

How is this scholarship helping you get closer to your dream? 

It allows me to continue with my flute studies because I currently do not own a flute. It gives me security in knowing that I can continue playing and that I will be able to teach other women lessons because I will have my own instrument.

What advice do you have for other young women who are wanting to pursue their dreams?

Don’t be afraid of your life circumstances or about whether you’ll survive. You have to believe in yourself and know that you will make it. Even if the odds are against you, you have to tell yourself that you won’t become another statistic.

Have you had any setbacks? How did you move past them?

I’ve had plenty of setbacks in my life. I move past my setbacks by reconciling myself with God and then praying and meditating to find out what to do next. Sometimes that means coming up with a different plan; other times, it means to keep on pursuing what you’re doing — even if it’s difficult.

What’s next for you? What is your next goal?

My next goal is to finish my high-school career and graduate in May. After that, I want to continue improving my skills as a musician to prepare for playing at my college in the fall.