Henry Mauser, 9th, Osage High School, (Non-fiction) "My Allstate Experience" It was an odd feeling. I remember the cool, dense, yet dry air of the massive coliseum. I felt strangely comfortable with the whole thing, I had been to the campus many times before. I was at peace, in my element. Was almost as if some force had taken over. As I traded places with the other accompanist, I sat, and tried not to move too much. My real issue was the evil urge inside me to play when I wasn’t supposed to, I think it was the camera 3 feet away staring into my soul. The dictionary defines tranquility as a state of mind - calm, but I would define it as a punch to the mind, pressure in your chest, and an unexplainable energy that supplies crisp awareness. I believe it’s the single highest stimulus that your consciousness can achieve... ★★★★★★★★★★ As we were rolling into the campus of Iowa State University, I recalled the previous visits I paid there. This gave me more confidence because I knew the land, almost like a tribal chief. The trip there felt like it was days long because of how vigorously I was studying music to ensure security in my playing. On another note, I was tightly squeezed into the back of an SUV and had no room to move. I still couldn’t imagine what was about to happen during the camp, but thankfully, today was all about auditions for my fellow allstaters in the Scheman building. building.
“I can’t wait to sit and do nothing today,” I complained as we entered the
Mr. Kirkpatric opened the door and said, “Well you still have to help with other people’s auditions.” After all, Ashley was on crutches. Whenever I used to travel to this part of the campus, I would get so nervous because it all had to do with performing. This time was different, I was old and wise like an owl. I felt calm and collected. It could’ve been associated with my maturity, or the fact that deep down I knew I was ready to shred the piano later. I had been preparing for TWO MONTHS. The rest of the day consisted of me and the others walking around to audition spaces to help with encouragement, and other logistical things. It was at this point when I could start to settle in and get more comfortable with the idea of staying here for two more days. Speaking of settling in, it was at this time that we unpacked at the hotel and left for dinner.
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