<p>D & I completed the online enrollment tonight. I just wanted to make sure this was what she really wanted, since most of her friends went to other colleges even though we're in-state. She's worried about not really knowing anyone, everything new, etc., but other than that she's pretty happy about her decision. </p>
<p>Is anyone joining marching band? D's not sure she wants to do that the first year. She thinks maybe she should give it a year and get used to everything first. It's a good way to meet people (she's pretty quiet), but still it's hard basically moving in a week early when you don't know anyone.</p>
<p>Encourage her to do marching band. By the time the regulars move in, she'll have had the week to meet her section and other freshman as well. The extra week will make her a seasoned pro vs the regulars and she can offer them assistance since she already will know the ropes. </p>
<p>Marching Band is an awesome activity and one that should be jumped into with both feet in the freshman year--don't wait.</p>
<p>Marching band is an awesome ec for a college freshman. Many times students only participate freshman and sophomore year because their schedules become so much more intense junior and senior year with harder classes, research, study abroad etc.</p>
<p>Moving in early is EXCELLENT! Just have her talk to roommate before she sets up so roommate has choices in room configuration too.</p>
<p>Marching band is a huge time committment but that is why it is such a great idea. She will have a schedule, somewhere she belongs, immediate constant contact with the same large group of people (easier to build friendships), and play an important part in the school (plus having a great seat at the football games) My only suggestion would be to not take on a heavy load of classes in the fall.</p>
<p>Any time you can move in early and get situated before the crush of the school year starts is a good thing. I "rushed" freshman year JUST so I could do that (it was in August back then). Several of the women I met that first week BEFORE school started were my closest friends for the whole four years.</p>
<p>And, although I was not a member (can't carry a tune in a basket OR in the shower) I have great love for MU's MB! They rock!!!</p>
<p>She's worried about the others being able to play more difficult music (she went to a small Catholic high school) and an audition. She also wanted to get a job on campus, and I'm worried about her having time for everything. However, many of her good friends now she met in HS marching band. So, we'll see, she's thinking about it.</p>
<p>My son plans on participating in Marching Band for all of the reasons expressed above. The Band Director, David Shaffer, is a terrific guy. We sat in on a rehearsal, and my son was relieved to see that things operate pretty much the way they did at his HS. In fact, the music program was one of the many things that really attracted our son to MU. </p>
<p>I would encourage her to try it -- it is a great way to meet people, and provides a nice niche away from the dorm group.</p>