<p>I have been in band for four years(6th-9th) so far with mdoerate success: 2nd chair in region band, top band every year possible including in high school. Since 7th grade, I have grown to hate band(not music, not the people) but just band itself.</p>
<p>Throughout my years of actually trying in school, I've found that passion and hard work sadly do not beat out talent. I do well in band, but utterly failed in debate until I change into an easier event despite the fact that I hated what I was doing when I succeeded.</p>
<p>I have a choice between band and decathlon. </p>
<p>Perks of band: friends, more commitment for colleges, takes up more time, more success</p>
<p>Perks of decathlon: something I actually want to do</p>
<p>So I really think it would be smarter to stay in band despite how much I hate it for college's sake since I know decathlon is hopeless, but I'm not sure if passion for an extracurricular equates enjoyment.</p>
<p>Not too sure about the details of either activity because I haven’t participated in neither, but doing both is out of the question? Again, not sure on the specifics, but if possible I would do that.</p>
<p>You have the right outlook, though. I see your passion behind band because you’ve been doing it for four years already. However, you could start decathlon if you really want to. Doing something just because you think it will look good for college could hinder you and keep you from having fun and enjoying what high school has to offer.</p>
<p>What schools do you want to go to? It might help. Having band experience will help you look passionate about band, but you have just started high school and you can make changes. If I were in your place I’d try to do both, but if that isn’t possible I’d definitely stick with band. You have friends in there, you’ve stayed dedicated this long, and there’s always time for improvement.</p>
<p>I see an interesting essay shaping up. If you do band because you like it, even if you aren’t a star, honor that part of who you are (and make an essay out of it). Sometimes the ‘excellence’ a school is interested in is the kind where a person doesn’t have to be the star every time. They know that being a great team player matters. Those who shows up every time, ready to go, but don’t get the glory and are okay with that, are vital to any endeavour. It says a lot more about a person’s character and what they have to offer, than the fact that they got the award for best whatever that year. </p>
<p>I also want to mention that if you do decide to drop band, you can still show commitment to music and continuity in your interest by finding another way to engage pursue music. Find an outside band or group to play with, for example.</p>