Senior Caitlin Monahan may seem quiet to underclassmen in the halls, but when she’s given a microphone, her voice can be heard around the state. With a course load full of AP classes, she also finds time to practice her abilities on guitar and piano, and is a well-known voice in the chorus rooms.

     Monahan began her music career at an early age, when she found her passion after participation in the fourth grade chorus at Cushing Elementary School.

      “I took singing lessons with ‘the Meyerson’ after that, and I have ever since,” she said with a smile. She is a four-year member of the Select Choir, Jazz Choir and Women’s Choirs at SHS and has participated in seven state music

      In fact, she received acceptance into the prestigious Berklee College of Music earlier this year, well-known as one of the best music schools in the world. However, she will be attending New York University for the next four years, where she will study French and music in her favorite city.

     Monahan plans to major in music and eventually become a music therapist.

      “I want to help others learn how crucial it is to have music and use it to help them both mentally and physically, ” she said.

     Listening to her talents brings emotion to the audience. While she counts Bright Eyes, the Pixies, and Beirut among her inspirations, her soft sound and rich tones also brings to mind the musical love child of Regina Spektor and Adele. Monahan has also been playing piano since sixth grade and guitar since seventh grade.

      “I’ve done music festivals with her and she’s been in every festival I have been and more. She has a really mysterious sound to her voice and it’s really rich and definitely cool,” said junior Olivia Branton.

    While she has also been involved in clubs such as the Gay-Straight Alliance, STAND, International Club and National Honor Society throughout her high school career, music will always be the most important activity in Monahan’s life.

      “Music is more important than anything academic to me. [Academics] aren’t really what makes a person interesting, what makes them real. Music validates your being. It shows people that you’re a person, not just a student,” she said.

     Others may go from club to club without finding one they enjoy, but Caitlin Monahan is a great role model for those students wishing to follow their dreams and pursue their talents.