What year(s) did you march in the Blue Knights? What sections?
I marched with the Blue Knights Colorguard in 2014 and 2017.
Where did you attend high school? Education beyond high school? I went to Burbank High School in Burbank, CA, and am currently in school pursuing education and counseling.
What is your current occupation?
I am on the dive operations team at the local aquarium! So I dive with sharks for a living!
Why did you choose to march with the Blue Knights?
I chose to march with the Blue Knights because friends of mine had marched there before, I was able to go and audition with a friend, and I liked that they valued the individual in their design.
What is your favorite drum corps memory?
My favorite corps memory has got to be both closers at finals. In both my years’ marching I remember sobbing for literally the entire closer because I was overwhelmed with joy. Whenever I hear those songs I still feel that joy, even in the middle of the grocery store.
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How have the Blue Knights impacted your life?
The Blue Knights continue to impact my life every day. I was in the wedding of my 2014 seat partner earlier this year (love you Katie!) and I push myself to give 100% of what I have. A tech told me that one year, so even if I only have 30% to give, I’m giving 100% of that every time.
What are some of the Blue Knights’ core values/principles that have resonated with you in life?
The principals of BK are so important to me. As I mentioned, they value their students and don’t make us feel like robots. Both years I marched I felt valued for who I am and the talent I could bring. Not that I could embody what they thought I should be.
What advice would you tell someone considering trying out for the Blue Knights?
My advice for others considering marching for the Blue Knights is just go for it. You will never know how good you can be, how strong you can make yourself, or how well you bounce back unless you try. Even if you don’t make it, you owe it to yourself to see what you can do, and keep trying until you find where you succeed.
How would you like to see other Blue Knight alumni get involved in the organization?
In my opinion, I would love to see other alumni donate and volunteer. I can afford to travel and volunteer with the corps itself, so I always post on social media and engage when and where I can!
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