Coming into high school, I didn't expect to jump into new pursuits. However, my pondering mind was intrigued by students' posts about a summer camp. The two-week marching band camp caused a spark of interest. On the first day of school, I didn't realize the mere act of asking the director for a spot would mean I was automatically in the show. Nevertheless, the commitment didn't scare me off; it was the thousand-dollar fee instead. With the mindset of exploring new challenges, I undertook the membership role.

The Instagram posts may have looked appealing, yet no one prepared me for my first practice. With the countless large instruments being moved on the field, it didn't take long for me to collide with a tuba player and fall on my face. Before I knew it, everyone started to doubt my ability to catch up to my peers.

Instead of waiting for the director to help me, I took matters to my own hand. In exchange for some Chick-Fil-A, I asked an upperclassman to stay after school on the off days to help me learn my drill spots. Within a few weeks, I was able to perform at the exhibition with my peers.

At the exhibition, I proudly wore my blue and gold uniform; my performance made me feel as if I belonged on the field. Joining marching band was never in the books; it never was thought off even. Yet, being a part of my high school's marching band was one of the most rewarding things I did in life. Later, that season, we were able to perform at Nationals in the Lucas Oil Stadium and advance to semi-finals. Sometimes, saying yes to things spontaneously can pivot life in incredible ways.