Before I joined marching band, I hated myself.

I hated how I looked, who I was, and I had no decent friends. Since I have joined, I am much more confident in myself. I became a better person and I gained friends that I will have for life. Marching band has helped me become the person I've wanted to be.

My first practice, I cried.

I was so shy and nervous and I didn’t want to talk to anyone. I decided to quit. My now best friend ended up convincing me to come back.

When I came back, I was asked if I wanted to join color guard. I didn’t even know what color guard was until I joined (in case you don’t know, they are the ones who spin the flags).

I learned a few seconds of a dance and from there I fell in love.

I loved dancing (even though I wasn’t very good) and I loved spinning the flag. Doing color guard gave me a sense of confidence. I came out of my shell and I started to love who I was. I became a much better person. I became kinder, happier, more open-minded.

I learned to look at the bigger picture and that everything is not about me. I learned to think about other people. What is convenient for me may not be what is best for everyone.

Marching band taught me to be accepting of everyone. It taught me discipline and life lessons that I can carry with me for the rest of my life.

Because of marching band, I not only know to step in time while spinning with other people, but I can also learn how to follow directions and pay attention to detail. I have learned time management skills and that I always need to work hard and improve myself.

Marching band gave me a family. I know that if I am ever struggling that I have people that will always be there for me.

Marching band has affected my life in such a positive way.

Marching band helped me love myself and bring back my confidence. I am so happy that I have been able to be a part of an activity that can teach me self-love while also teaching me to love others.

I am so glad to have been a part of a program that will forever be a part of me and will teach me things I can carry for the rest of my life.

I am thankful to be a band geek.