When I started college, I was a Music Education major. I juggled classes, marching rehearsals, practicing music on my own, and various other things because I loved music. My major, however, I ended up hating. I changed my major to Technical Theatre after a month or so of Music Ed, and I knew I made the best decision for my future.

The only thing I worried about was how this change would affect my involvement in music in general.

I started out in my university's marching band because I was required to march three years as a Music major. I made so many new friends that quickly became family and knew these upcoming three years were going to be some of the best of my life.

After I switched majors, I still had my passion for music, and I had no doubt that I wanted to keep marching. Of course, this decision led to a ton of people asking me things like:

"Why are you still marching when you aren't a music major anymore?"

"How will this benefit your future career at all?"

I knew it would be easy to let these comments get to me, and I actually had to remind myself that I'm still in marching band because it means a lot to me. As I finished up my first season, I realized that it might be time to give it up and focus on my major.

Then I rushed and was initiated into a music sorority that served the marching band, and frankly, I didn't think I could give it up if I wanted to. I started my second season without a care in the world, making sure I was focusing on school.

As my second season came down to a couple more days, I began to think about whether or not I should continue for a third. Against all reasonable odds, I convinced myself that it'd be okay to do one more. Though it may interfere with my major and some classes, I'm prepared and ready to return with no worries.

Well, some worries.

None that pertain to marching, though.

I guess it took me a bit to realize how important marching is to me. I was ready to give it up like it was no big deal, but I know now that it isn't just an activity; it's a part of me. I'm dedicated to this program no matter what my major is.