The ongoing pandemic has made it hard for a University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) student to continue paying for college. Taking matters into her own hands, Maria Bassil, 18, began playing violin on the streets of Nevada to raise money.
Bassil, who is currently studying to become a veterinarian, was raised in Lebanon but growing economic and social problems forced her to pursue an education in the US.
With finances getting tighter, she came up with the idea of earning some cash using her skills as a violinist. The young student is a seasoned musician with more than 12 years of experience, graduating from a music conservatory in Lebanon.
Bassil has performed in several churches but expressed that she will remain grateful no matter where she performs.
“I’m playing here on the corner, and whatever people can do, I’m so appreciative. If they only say good job, I appreciate it. If they put in a coin, I appreciate that also,” Bassil told WECT.
While she is busking on the street for college fees, Bassil said that there isn’t an exact figure she’s set on accumulating since playing for people is something she loves doing.
“I do not have an exact amount of money — So, whatever I raise for college. I am doing my best. Honestly it’s my passion. It’s something that I dreamed of when I was a kid. So, I don’t play here only to make money, I play here because I love it,” she told ABC 17.
The road to attaining a college degree may not be easy, but for Bassil the chance to become a veterinarian while being able to play her music is tremendously satisfying.
“I have not in my life imagined that I would be here standing and playing. It was a big dream for me,” she said.