How Marching Band Changed My Life

So far in my life, marching band has been one of the best things that has ever happened to me.

For me, marching band was all about learning how to handle responsibility, how to become a leader, and learning how to have the time of my life. I learned that I had to memorize the drill and music perfectly, or I would let the group down and compromise the performance for the crowd. When I was old enough to be a part of the leadership team, I realized that I was a leader that was now responsible for not only teaching drill and music to hundreds of kids, but I was also responsible for helping shape who they would turn into as leaders and people.

The discipline in the band was rigorous and draining, but I feel years of learning how to act responsibly and confidently under that physical and emotional pressure helped me become an even stronger leader and person today. I have since strived to translate this discipline and leadership into my academics, as well as my career goals.

Finally, I learned that I made the most valuable and enjoyable friendships I have ever had through my high school marching band. The bonds that were formed from putting so much effort and work into one common goal are unbreakable, and I can never see these friendships fading away throughout my life.