For some students, they attend school focused on working towards their future goals.

Cosmetology major Laura Cerna may be going to school for something she loves to do, but her passion is singing.

Cerna is a bilingual vocalist that has been singing for as long as she can remember, looking to take singing more seriously.

She may not have a CD out yet or a band that she performs with but nonetheless, she is determined to follow her heart and make music a much bigger part of her life.

Q&A:

Talon Marks: How did you first get involved with music?

Laura Cerna: I’ve always been singing but when I was in high school, I was in the chorus and realized how much I enjoyed it. I was given a chance to sing solo and fell in love with performing.

TM: What is it that attracts you to music?

LC: I know that overwhelming feeling that I get when a song touches me; I want to share that feeling with others. I want someone to come up to me one day and say, “Your song changed my life.”

TM: Are you trying to pursue a serious career in music?

LC: Absolutely. I write lyrics, come up with melodies, and basically write my own songs. I have collaborated with musicians to help produce my songs.

TM: Why go to school for cosmetology and spend your hard money on something separate from music?

LC: Music isn’t a guarantee. I love cosmetology, but my passion is for singing and music.

TM: For those who have never heard you sing before, what are your influences?

LC: Mariah Carey was my idol when I was little, but Amy Winehouse and Alicia Keys are more my style. I love R&B, soul and oldies.

TM: What have you done to try and break into the music industry?

LC: I wouldn’t say I’ve broken into the industry, but after performing solo my senior year at the Hispanic Pride Organization assembly, I knew it was for me. I plan on trying out for the next American Idol. My father also supports me; when we went to Mexico, my father and I drove all around stopping at every restaurant performing wherever and whenever possible. It helps that people support me.

TM: If you were in Mexico performing, does that mean you sing in Spanish?

LC: It does but I want to break out in English first and hopefully I will be lucky enough to cross over into the Spanish market.

TM: Anything that you would like to say?

LC: I would love to collaborate with anyone that is passionate about music. It’s always fun to bring talents together and see what happens. I am also very open to singing for a band. I just want to do something that will give me the opportunity get on stage and sing, that’s the ultimate high.