Ciara came out to help us stuff 5,000 backpacks at the Do Something 101 event today in New York! She came all the way from L.A. to take a bite out of the big apple. The songstress had fun stuffing backpacks for underprivileged kids with all sorts of “Goodies” and CGG caught up with her behind the scenes.

“Education is everything, you know?” We agree--education is super important but not totally available to everyone! But we asked her if she really liked school back when she had to wake up super early for class: “I have to admit, I did—for the most part. And I will say that I was exposed to so many things…now that I’m older I appreciate those things even more.” So one-two-step to class, you’ll be glad you did.

Ciara told us her favorite subjects in school were science and math but nowadays she wishes she had spent more time paying attention in history and geography—classes she didn’t used to like. “But now I appreciate it because I travel so much so it means so much more to me.”

And for aspiring musicians out there, Ciara says if you’ve got the gift of music, “you better use it!” She believes young people have the power to change the world through art. “Know that you’re voice is very powerful—it is as powerful as you make it. Really really use it! Music is definitely one of the most influential things in this world so understand how powerful it is and don’t be afraid to use it!”

So do like Ciara and “strive to do something different.” Come out to Staples this summer and contribute to Do Something 101. Bring some of your extra school supplies now through September 19th. Do you really need that fifth binder? You’ll feel good you gave it to someone who does!