My Drum Major Application Journey: Don't Waste I

I never once thought that swinging my arms to a beat would transform me. Of course, I knew that being a drum major would consist of constant conducting, but keeping tempo was only scratching the surface of the duties I was responsible for. It was a hot summer day at a university summer marching band camp when I had my epiphany, a moment that would change the course of my life forever.

The sweltering sun bore down on us as our instructor, a seasoned musician with a passion for teaching, stood before 125 aspiring drum majors. He had shared countless anecdotes about his own journey, but this time, his words carried a different weight. He spoke carefully, sweat glistening on his forehead, and said, "There are 125 drum majors in this room, and all of you are capable of seeking and achieving more." He went on about how we had to approach the upcoming marching season with an insatiable desire to excel. As he choked up with tears, he ended his speech with three powerful words: "Don't waste it."

The room fell into an emotional silence, and I could feel my eyes welling up, mirroring the instructor's raw emotion. While to some, his lecture might have sounded like just another melodramatic motivational speech, to me, those three words were the catalyst for my transition into adulthood.

To this day, I carry those three words with me every time I ascend the drum major podium during marching band rehearsal. They serve as more than mere motivation; they are a constant reminder of my responsibility to push myself and the entire band program towards greatness. I have to step out of my comfort zone and strive not only for my personal goals but for the collective success of the entire ensemble. What makes this experience so impactful is that it all begins with my arms guiding every beat of the music, a lesson that transcends the confines of the rehearsal space and resonates throughout my life. Every time I conduct, I sense myself shedding old habits and adopting new ones that positively influence not only our musical performance but also my personal growth. Every time I conduct, I am reminded to pursue excellence, with my hands cutting through the humid air, repeating those three words like a mantra: "Don't waste it."

My instructor's words instill in me a sense of responsibility for my mistakes, pushing me to view them as opportunities for growth rather than letting them dictate my emotions. Most importantly, those three words inspire me to maintain an unwavering commitment to self-improvement, learning, and development, reflecting a level of maturity and self-assurance I never believed I could attain.

As I embark on this drum major application journey, I carry the weight of those three words with me. They remind me that this role is not just about leading a marching band; it's about setting an example, pushing boundaries, and continually striving for excellence. My determination to embody these principles extends beyond the rehearsal podium and into all aspects of my life. The "Don't waste it" philosophy serves as my guiding light, propelling me forward as I seek to fulfill my dreams and inspire those around me.