Spartan Engineers are well represented in one of the most recognizable college marching bands in the country – the Spartan Marching Band (SMB).
With 300 members in the marching ensemble, more than 50 of the green and white uniformed students are from the College of Engineering. Band members represent every college at MSU and have an average grade point average of 3.48 out of 4.0.
One of the Spartan Engineers is trombone player Olivia VanHouten, a sophomore majoring in computer science. She said the sheer size of the marching band is what sets it apart from other extracurricular activities. And while it could be difficult to build connections with individuals in the large group, the energy of SMB exceeds the need for that.
“You still feel a connection to every single person. You understand the work and love put into the activity. It proves you don't have to know someone personally to work together to achieve something great.”
Ethan Cappon is a sophomore mechanical engineering major who plays the trumpet. A two-year SMB veteran, he said the experience has deepened his feelings about being a Spartan. “Being a part of something that is deeply rooted and connected to the university means a lot to me.”
Ellen Racine, who plays the trombone, explained that while SMB is intensive, it’s helpful in making friends and creating a sense of belonging. “You spend a lot of time with the people in your section,” the mechanical engineering sophomore said. “You end up forming really strong connections before the semester even starts.”
The SMB is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Students experience the thrills of performing while developing skills of discipline and dedication, all while creating memories with the friends they’ve made.
What truly makes SMB students remarkable is the level of commitment they put into each season. They spend the offseason preparing mentally and physically. Preseason camp consists of long days full of demanding work. And when it’s time to perform, they give it their all.
The SMB contributed to the excitement and energy of six home football games this season, where they performed pre- and post-shows. They also played a significant role in the Homecoming Parade.
Julia Crane, a fourth-year student majoring in chemical engineering, is part of the Big Ten Flag Corps. This year, she has the honor of carrying the Michigan State flag.
Crane admits that prior to joining the SMB, balancing school and extracurriculars weren’t her strong suit.
Spartan Engineers engage in some of the most difficult coursework offered at MSU, and homework is a promise. Given that band practices occur several days a week, time management becomes a vital part of day-to-day activities.
Luckily, the marching band experience helped Crane with that. “The hard-working environment of the SMB has pushed me to be better at staying on top of my schoolwork.”
Prioritization is key, noted VanHouten. “It’s important to allow each activity to have its own time, free of the worries of other responsibilities.”
When VanHouten goes to marching band practice, she leaves her worries about her classes behind – a separation that is crucial to maintaining positive mental health.
“This allows me to enjoy and put my best effort into each activity. It’s a small, but important balance," she added.
MSU College of Engineering Media and Public Relations page