She’s in a room with a cluster of other talents. People are singing songs and playing their guitars to pass the time, transforming the thick tension in the air with ease and lightheartedness. After a period of waiting, junior Bre McCarley and 10 others are escorted into a black and white room and asked to individually sing an acapella verse or chorus of their previously selected song.

Last year, McCarley auditioned for NBC’s hit TV show, The Voice, singing “She Will Be Loved” by Maroon 5. Although she was not permitted to continue on to the next round, she didn’t let it get her down.

“It was my first audition,” McCarley said. “I didn’t have a lot of experience.”

McCarley was given a second chance; she was recently emailed by the producers of the show and asked to come back and give another shot at an audition. McCarley accepted with enthusiasm.     

“I’ve always loved singing,” McCarley said. “It is for sure a passion of mine. I become a different person. It’s an escape.”

McCarley had high hopes and a large group of supporting friends for this audition.

“I’m not nervous,” McCarley said. “I’ve done it before and I know what to expect. I’ve never really been nervous about singing in front of people.”

Cool, confident and composed, McCarley auditioned Jan. 9th, singing “Cough Syrup” by Young The Giant.

McCarley has been singing her entire life, although she has been serious about it since she was 12 years old.

“I guess it’s like an escape,” McCarley said. “I don’t have to worry about anything but the amount of emotion and effort I’m putting into singing.”