It’s that time of the year, where high school students gather for the last month and a half before school begins. Marching band is one of the greatest activities a student can do in high school and college. Within the first week, you will make new friends and find other band nerds that love music as much as you do.

There is nothing better than hearing the rhythm of the music and moving along with the beat with everyone at the same time. Of course, marching band isn’t the easiest thing in the world, but there is something about it that gathers the best in people. Performing together brings such an excitement from all of the long hours you practiced for ten minute showing.

For me, I’ve been marching for about eight years now, and every year I never regret being in marching band. Throughout the years, I learned discipline, responsibility, dedication, team work, skills, and being part of a big family.

No matter the size at Lake High School with about 200 students or at Ashland University with 60 band members, they are still family to me. Each person has a different personality, some may not get along very well at first, and there is always the goof ball that makes everyone laugh. It's just like an average family that has a conductor for a parent that brings out the best of us every day.

This past week, I got an email from our band director about band camp starting next month, and I am so excited! I miss everyone, the music, marching, and spinning a flag. If it wasn't for marching band, I wouldn't have made as much friends that I have now. I can be shy, but each year it's going away. I feel more confident about myself, especially when performing.

So for those who aren't or want to join a marching band, please do! You will gain so much from it, both physically and mentally. Everyone is there to have fun, while dedicating their social life to be there. Even though, there is plenty of socializing in marching band itself.

Trust me, there are times you may want to give up because of how hard it is, but that is where you learn perseverance. You never know what you are made of until you push yourself to the limit. When you hit that point, you'll be on fire. During the fall season, there will be more challenges that will keep you going till the very end of it. Instead of celebrating that it's over, you'll be wishing that it was still going on. You'll be missing the adrenaline rush from performing.

For those who are in or are continuing in marching band, have a wonderful season! Bring out your best every day, and have fun! Fall season may be the fastest time that goes by during the school year, so make as much memories as you can with your band family.