Being in band has been the best decision I have ever made. From the friends I have made to the skills I have learned, band has been a huge factor in my life. There are distinct characteristics that each of us bandies have, and here's a list of just a few to distinguish us from the rest.

1. You can pick up the time signature of every song on the radio

When you turn on any radio station you can normally pick up the 4/4 time signature from your favorite pop song.

2. You walk to the beat of the songs playing in the mall/grocery store.

Whether it's smooth jazz or "Firework" by Katy Perry, you can always catch a band kid stepping in time with the beat of the song. We can't help that we're wired that way.

3. You have a hard time walking without rolling your feet.

This is a huge problem, especially after band camp. Learning how to walk without you toes in the air after spending hours a day getting yelled at to do it is probably one of the hardest things a band kid has to do.

4. You have learned how to fit into the tightest places.

We all know that one kid who sleeps in the sousaphone case during band camp breaks.

5. You appreciate water more than anyone you know.

Water breaks during practices are a rarity. Whenever somebody offers you a water you learn to accept it because you never know when you might get to drink again.

6. You know to never trust any one when they say "just one more time".

Whether it be a band director or a parent, you know that "just one more time" means until you get it right.

7. You have tennis shoe tan-line permanently.

From days of band practices in the hot sun and band camp, you now have what others call the "band tan". If you see somebody with the dreaded shoe and sock tan-line, they are more than likely in band.

8. You know how important free time really is.

9. You know more music than anyone should ever take credit for.

Whether you have played it during a concert or in the stands, any time you hear "Don't Stop Believing" you get gross visions of that ridiculous set you have to march to in the 9th grade to that song.

10. You have will never take your time in band for granted.

Band has been a challenge but you know that your life would not be complete without it.