Band can be the place where some people feel they fit in the most. It's a family where we all have each other's backs no matter the circumstances we face. It's a home and a second family to us. And we don't realize how fast it goes by in high school until it's over.

When I was a freshman, I was giddy and excited to start a new chapter in my life. Little did I know how the road would be from then! Marching band was incredibly hard for me because it was my first year, and things were a lot tougher than I anticipated. But as each day went on, so did I, and I learned the ropes of marching real quick. Marching band strengthened me physically and mentally and gave me the discipline I needed to make it through the season every year.

Now, I am a senior. It is nearing the end of October and football season is coming to a close end. When I walked down the fifty yard line on Senior Night, I never realized how much I would be missing my band after I graduate in May of 2020. The friends I made and the family we had become each year would soon become memories as I transition into the college chapter. I really wanted to cry that night, especially once we performed our very last home performance. Knowing that I wasn't going to ever march on that field again filled me up with sadness.

But what makes me happy now is reflecting and seeing how much I grew from the time I stepped on the field for the very first time to the moment I stepped off that field. Those moments, good or bad, are what will keep me going. Those are the moments you never want to forget. And here are some:

- Having the privilege to play with an amazing band with incredibly talented musicians is worth going through the bad days.

- Knowing that you are an important member to the whole band and "not just a number" is an overwhelming and nice feeling.

- Having awesome marching days.

- Meeting people from other bands!

- Marching in cooler weather is really worth it.

- Getting first place at competitions.

- Overall, just having the welcoming feeling when you step into the band room.

There are many more moments, but it all varies person to person and from band to band. I love band because it has been one emotional ride for me, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.