<p>I've really enjoyed being in band in my last four years of high school. I know that practices for marching band are from 4:30-6:30 tuesday, thursday, and friday. Is it usually difficult for students to balance out their courseloads and do marching band? It seems to me that three two hour rehearsals a week is manageable, but I haven't started college yet. This what my courseload will probably look like this semester:</p>
<p>Spanish 100 (5hrs.)
Freshman Writing Seminar (3hrs.)
Chemistry 102A/104A (4hrs.)
Math 155A (4hrs.)</p>
<p>Aside from balancing school work, is band at Vanderbilt fun? I always enjoyed playing my saxophone in high school and hope that it's just as great at the collegiate level! Please tell me some pros/cons! Thanks! :)</p>
<p>Band students have a lot of fun…and have parties. It is challenging to get the work done but this is true for all Vandy students.
Some of them lived with my son one year, and they have friends all through the school but they definitely bond in Band. I think you have to arrive early as well to practice. When you are in a college with 6000 undergrads it is important to find more than one group but you gotta start somewhere. Another good place is to put in an application for Alternative Spring break…you will finish with 8 new friends or so each year. good luck and congrats on being a Dore.</p>
<p>Have several friends in the marching band and they love it. The only part they don’t care for is missing tailgating at home games. I took 17 hours last semester and worked 10 hours a week, which is more of a commitment than band. Certainly had enough time for homework/social activities. Missed the time to just relax after classes though.</p>
<p>Thanks so much! I’m really looking forward to it! :)</p>