Lehman College: College Now Summer Arts Academy 2011

Born and raised in the South Bronx, Cecil Brooks Jr has experienced NYC's culture at its finest. Just living in the birthplace of Hip-hop has gotten him accustomed to hearing loud music late at night. In addition to Rap, he has also heard Bachata, Reggae, and Soul music from an early age. Being an open and "culturally curious" person has allowed Cecil to find an interest in his own history, as well as the history of other groups of people. The arts allow Cecil to freely express himself, while entertaining & informing others. He hopes to use the arts as a way to make connections between different types of people. This can be done through humor, music, discussion, & information. As Cecil strives to find his place in the world, he continues to enjoy hobbies such as making/performing music, legal studies, global history, fashion, and most recently videography.

Raised on a farm, I was always riding horses and listening to country music. I was adventurous, and loved to get lost on the woods out behind the horse pasture. My mother and sister were the only two living with me in an old-fashioned log cabin house. I had my own horse when I was 7, and his name was Whiskey. I'm hardheaded sometimes, and I like to get my way. Sometimes I go over the top with my ridiculosity, but at least I realize I'm a little bit crazy. I hate being mediocre, and I always push myself to learn things. I always want to be the very best I can be, although I know that doesn't mean I'm perfect. I make so many mistakes, and when I realize it, I try to fix it but it doesn't always work. I've gone through a lot of changes, and I'm nothing but stronger because of it. When I was twelve, we moved to South Carolina to live closer to my step dad's job. It was fun, and I learned a lot from being down there. Although I was raised in a white family, I never forgot my Spanish roots and I was always trying to learn Spanish. When my mom gave me the opportunity to move to New York, I was overjoyed. I knew I would learn more about my Puerto Rican heritage being there. I also learned a lot more about the city life, and being in a huge city. It was a little bit of a shock for me, but since I adapt well to change, I got used to the fast people, the busy streets, and the rude drivers. I love New York because it's teaching me how to be fast-paced and productive. Hopefully one day I'll be a very successful person in New York City, with my own graphic design advertising company.