Sanjae Sterling, STAR Writer

Mikhail Fearon at the Norman Manley International Airport, preparing to leave for the camp. - Anthony Minott

Mikhail Fearon has returned to Jamaica after his two-week stay at California State University. The 17-year-old was chosen along with Janine Coombs in the Muzak Noise! summer camp competition put on by Solid agency and the Star. Mikhail was chosen for being the top male in the essay and interview sections of the competition.

Reminiscing on his journey to the USA, Mikhail spoke of his experience at the camp.

"The experience was great, meeting the other campers and presenters that were there and getting to share my culture with them. I fulfilled and surpassed my expectations because I was going with the intention of meeting people like executives and people from record labels. But as it turned out, I met friends," he said.

As he spoke of the new things that he learned at the summer camp, Mikhail said that visiting the camp had, however, not changed his career path.

"We learnt how to 'make' ourselves in the business. For example, as a manager, we learnt how to speak for an artiste if you are going to be an independent record label owner. We learnt how you might not have money but I learnt about personal sacrifice. I am taking it to the next level. Actually, I'm starting my own independent label now."

The young man also said that there were many moments that he will hold close in his memory but one in particular that he wishes to forget.

"I will never forget the talent show, and people responding to a couple of songs I wrote; that feeling was memorable. What I would like to forget is the camp food. It was just the food; apart from that, I can't say I had any problems," he said.

With the knowledge that he gained from the experience, Mikhail expressed his wisdom to youths who may consider the path he has chosen.

"Be open to meeting all kinds of people. Never say there is something you won't do. Always be ready to change your mind because the music business is unpredictable."