Category
Member Feature
Author
Nick Marsella
Founder & Executive Director
Growing Up
Makala grew up in a single-parent household in low-income, underserved neighborhoods. At different periods of her childhood and adolescence, she experienced homelessness and moved from couch to couch.
Throughout that time, she continued to push herself in her hobbies, extracurricular activities, and academics. That drive eventually earned her a full scholarship to Vanderbilt University, where she attended from 2020 to 2024.
Returning to Music
Music had always been one of Makala's favorite pursuits and a consistent source of happiness. She joined band in sixth grade and began playing alto saxophone. By high school, however, music had become increasingly stressful and competitive, taking some of the joy out of it.
She stepped away from music for much of college, particularly amid the restrictions of the pandemic. During her senior year, her scholarship gave her the opportunity to take flute and violin lessons at no cost. Learning again in that setting allowed her to reconnect with music on her own terms.
Finding That One Ensemble
After college, job insecurity led to another period of houselessness. While staying in a transitional housing program, Makala was introduced to That One Ensemble.
Through TOE, she began learning violin with talented instructors and receiving detailed technical feedback. She continued developing as a violinist, reaching the point where she could play pieces independently and experience the progress that comes from sustained study.
Building Stability
The program stipend also supported Makala during a period of transition. It helped as she worked toward securing housing and greater financial stability after leaving the transitional housing program. Throughout the process, TOE remained supportive of both what she was managing in the present and what she hoped to pursue in the future.
What Comes Next
Now more stable and back on her feet, Makala is considering the next steps in her professional career, including the possibility of attending law school next year.
She also hopes to remain involved in the growth of That One Ensemble and, in time, give back to a program that has played an important role in her own journey.