Specifically, chances on herself.

The St. Edmond High School senior, though, believes her important life lesson is one that can help those who will follow her.

“I hope that future performers at St. Edmond when remembering me are reminded that it is OK to be themselves, to take a chance and to put themselves out there,” Conrad said. “This year, I have taken many risks. Yes, it was very hard, but I have learned from all my mistakes and I am a better person and performer now because of them.

“I have always been afraid of soloing in front of people, but when asked by my band director, Ryan Swedean, if I wanted to do a feature song, without hesitation I said, ‘Yes.’ This was the same for trying out for a solo in chamber choir and auditioning for all-state chorus.

“I knew I was going to struggle, but I have learned so much along the way.”

During her career as a Gael, Conrad has been involved in the musical, fine arts showcase, concert band, jazz band, show band, concert choir, chamber choir, solo/small ensemble, speech, student council, along with being selected to the honor society and all-state chorus. She also played volleyball for St. Edmond.

“I have met so many great people that I wouldn’t have if I hadn’t been involved in so much,” Conrad said. “I wouldn’t trade that for the world.”

Jazz band, though, provided Conrad with a special memory.

“We are a small band, but we have defeated the odds,” she said. “Just knowing that hard work pays off is amazing. I have seen my peers work so hard for everything we have accomplished this year and I’m very proud of them.

“They have made my last year at St. Edmond something I will cherish forever.”

Conrad earned two Division I ratings during the IHSMA Solo and Small Ensemble Festival earlier this spring. She also was named Outstanding Soloist at the NCIVA district meet when the jazz band advanced to state.

“Music is my passion,” Conrad said. “I have grown up with music in my life. My family is a very musical family and my love for music stemmed from that. Throughout my life, my dad has introduced me to many different types of music that no one my age would probably ever listen to. This has opened my eyes to all the endless possibilities music can give. It is not necessarily about performing, but being able to express myself through music. I feel like I can be myself whenever I am surrounded by music.

“I really look up to Ryan Swedean, Ben Wegner and Dan Cassady. All three of them have helped me immensely throughout the years and I owe it all to them.”

In the fall, Conrad plans on attending Iowa Central Community College where she will major in music education.

Vacation destination: Santorini, Greece.

People I would like to have dinner with: Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Jason Mraz.

It would surprise people that I’m: considering joining the 34th Army Band..

Performer that inspires me: Louis Armstrong. My everyday role model: Ryan Swedean.

I can’t go a day without: music.

Where do I see myself in 10 years:

Teaching band.

Dream piece to perform: “Fix You” by Coldplay.

A show you binge watch: Friends.

Favorites…

Musical/play: Mamma Mia!

Performing art: Jazz Band.

Music genre: Pop and jazz.

Instrument: trumpet.

Class: Band.

Movie: You’ve Got Mail.

Book: Out of My Mind

by Sharon M. Draper.

Phone App.: Snapchat.