Tanner Stephens embodies passion and talent for the arts. He is on track to graduate in Spring 2025 with an associate in arts degree in music performance and an associate in science degree in music production from State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota. He plans to pursue a future in music and teaching.

“I see myself in a very connected web of musicians that play,” said Stephens. “I see myself looking for a job in education, specifically in private schools or colleges.”

Stephens grew up in Bradenton and was interested in engineering and music. He struggled with behavioral issues and lacked a sense of direction and meaning. With encouragement and support from his parents and mentors, Stephens started attending classes at SCF in Fall 2022. That changed his life for the better.

“I wasn’t the best kid and didn’t do what I was told,” Stephens said. “I chose SCF as my final chance to get straightened out. It was a big leap that ultimately sent me toward where I am now.”

SCF’s programs and professors have holistically enriched Stephens’ growth. He encourages students to take advantage of SCF’s academic education, scholarship support and personal development guidance.

“There are not many other state schools that have the programs we have here,” he said. “All the teachers here build relationships with their students and provide a healthy learning environment. I have learned so much about what I want to do, different parts of life and key organization skills that I did not walk into this school with.”

In addition to his studies, Stephens enjoys spending time on the water and the music stage. He does water sports, works as a musician with theatres and venues in the community, participates in SCF’s music clubs and attends other SCF club events.

“I love playing music,” Stephens said. “I am an ambassador for the Music Club and the president of the Music Production Club. I have shown up to many events that the various clubs host.”

One important initiative for Stephens is developing relationships and events involving multiple SCF clubs. He created the concept for SCF’s recent Festival of the Arts, a collaboration of the Music Production Club and Film Club. The event featured live performances, short films, art, and other fine and performing arts.

“We have so many different arts showcased individually but not together,” he said. “I helped with setting up, running audio, playing music, and coordinating with the visual art studio, Film Club, Music Club, Music Production Club and SCF Neel Performing Arts Center. Overall, this event served as a test of functionality, a way for us to try new things and a way to work out any logistical issues. The event was a huge success in my eyes.”

Stephens is grateful for his SCF experience and everyone who has supported him. He hopes to continue his journey in music and education beyond Florida.

“I am thankful for my professors who saw something in me even when I didn’t see something in myself,” Stephens said.  “One of my current dream jobs would be to play music on Broadway and elsewhere. I would also love to teach and help build young musicians.”

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