Justin Ross
Graduation year
Spring, 2011
Major
Mechanical Engineering
Why I chose to join Penn State’s Blue Band
Prior to attending Penn State, my sister Jessica Ross was a Piccolo player in the Blue Band. After seeing and hearing about her positive experiences and memories with the Blue Band, I could not have considered a better student organization to be a part of. Also, I have always wanted to incorporate music into my life, and I saw the Blue Band as a perfect opportunity to continue that interest.
My experience
I was shocked and thrilled when I found out I made it in the Blue Band. After hearing and seeing all of the talented students auditioning, I wasn’t sure if I was going to have the chance to join the band. When I heard my last name announced over the loudspeaker, so many thoughts began to run through my mind about what the upcoming year was going to be like. That was one of the most nerve-wracking but exhilarating nights for me here at Penn State.
What I learned
During the years that I have participated in the Blue Band, I have gained so many valuable friendships, memories, and leadership experiences that I will forever carry with me and hope to pass along to future Blue Band members and Penn State students as a whole. With a student organization as large as the Blue Band, I have learned that each member has a unique piece of the puzzle to contribute, and, without that essential piece, the Blue Band will never be complete.
Also through the Blue Band, I have learned how to lead with humble service and pride for this organization and the University.
Words I live by
I have two favorite quotes from my experiences here at Penn State. The first is a line from the Penn State Alma Mater: “May no act of ours bring shame.” The second is a phrase that our director, Dr. Bundy, says after our morning game day rehearsals: “Carpe the heck out of the diem!” I personally live by these two mantras because I feel that, as members of the Blue Band, we represent the University in every activity that we do, and, with that, we should always hold ourselves to high standards in order to preserve the tradition and pride that goes along with this University. As each day passes, we should try to make the most out of every situation and experience and seize each day to the fullest.
Greatest memory
My greatest memory from Blue Band was marching through the Beaver Stadium tunnel during pregame when Penn State was playing against Notre Dame in 2007. With the stadium in a full white out, I could not even hear myself play as I marched down the field due to the supporting screams and cheers of our alumni, students, and fans. Chills were running down my spine throughout that performance.
Why I believe it’s important to give back to the Blue Band
As students within the Penn State Bands program, we are appreciative and grateful for donors’ support. It is due to your loyal help that the Penn State Bands are able to consistently provide entertaining performances and shows for you each year, and there is not a day that goes by that we ever forget that. Donors, thank you for your gifts to the Penn State Bands!
Future ambitions
I will be working with Bechtel Plant Machinery Inc. (BPMI) as a cognizant engineer, with the aspiration to get my technical masters in Mechanical Engineering.
How can you contribute?
Make a gift today.