I have applied to OSU, it’s my number one option, and dream school. My high school marching band models after Big Ten bands, and we high step. I play the french horn, I’m second chair in symphonic band, and section leader. I’m really unsure whether or not I want to audition for it due to the fear of becoming just an alternate, or not making at all. My other college extra-curricular option is to join a sorority. I understand I can try it for a year and if I don’t like, just don’t audition again… but I’d prefer to commit to something. Also, because our marching techniques are extremely similar I am nervous that it will actually be more difficult to adjust and learn the new movements.
Any thoughts on the whole matter? Thank you! All comments are greatly appreciated.
Why not try out? No one’s high school band is just like a big college marching band, so everyone will need to learn something new. What a fun way to start your college career! It seems like you would know if you are accepted to the band before you need to commit to sorority rush.
Go for it. And being an alternate for a year isn’t the worst thing (I was an alternate for a year in my Big 10 college’s band, and got to match in the half time if a Super Bowl with them).
Also, osu doesn’t rush till second semester (if I remeber correctly) so that you can get adjusted before you dive into Greek life.
My friend’s freshman son is an alternate this year and he’s gotten to march in a few games already, including flying to Oklahoma for one game. I think he has to challenge someone every week for the right to march. And in one show, he didn’t march with his instrument but still got to be out there unrolling a banner or something.
He went to all the summer practices, which is a lot to do but I think it really increases your chances of getting in.