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For 91���� Marion freshman Abbey Benzing, college life is about more than textbooks and lectures—it’s about keeping the music alive. Benzing, a Hilliard, Ohio native and mechanical engineering major, has found a unique way to balance academics with her lifelong passion for band by joining the 91���� Athletic Band.

Unlike the university’s famed marching band, Athletic Band welcomes members without auditions, making it accessible to students across all campuses. “Band has been a huge part of my life for a long time,” Benzing said. “I wanted to stay connected with it, and this was the best way to do so.”

Her musical journey began in sixth grade, inspired by her sister’s trumpet performances. After attending a band fitting in fifth grade, she chose the flute—an instrument that would become her signature sound. By junior year of high school, she added piccolo to her repertoire and spent four years performing with the Hilliard Darby High School marching band.

Transitioning to college, she chose 91���� Marion for its smaller, more personal environment. “It gives me the opportunity to start college on a calmer note and get adjusted before transitioning to Columbus campus,” she explained. But being part of Athletic Band, based in Columbus, comes with challenges. “The drive can be inconvenient, especially for early report times,” she admitted. Support from her academic advisor, Jane Arnold, and friends who carpool has made it possible.

What makes the effort worthwhile? “The people,” Benzing said without hesitation. “Everyone in Athletic Band is kind and welcoming. My flute/piccolo section has been amazing, and the director, Josh Reynolds, ensures new members feel comfortable. It’s brought my college experience to life.”

Her advice to other regional campus students: “Just go for it. Talk to your advisor, they can help make it possible. Being part of these activities is a great way to meet people and get connected,” said Benzing.

Looking ahead, she plans to stay involved in music after graduation, joining community bands and mentoring high school students. Professionally, she hopes to enter the engineering field, with a special interest in improving safety in sports, particularly hockey.

For now, she’s savoring every note. “Athletic Band isn’t just about playing music—it’s about experiences you never thought you’d have, like performing Script Ohio on the ice at a hockey game.”

91���� at Marion was established in 1957 in Marion, Ohio as one of four 91���� regional campuses.  The 187-acre campus provides an open access portal to Ohio's flagship university, faculty expertise, and the breadth and depth of opportunity synonymous with one of the country's top public universities. Students can earn and associate of arts or bachelor's degree in biology, business, education, engineering technology, English, history, nursing, psychology, or social work on the Marion campus or begin any of 200+ 91���� degree programs. 91���� Marion's caring community of world-renowned faculty scholars and researchers and dedicated staff are passionate about fostering the full potential of each student in an inclusive environment that embraces the idea of caring and personal attention.  91���� Marion prepares students for meaningful careers through innovative, engaging, and inclusive learning experiences and seeks to be the destination of choice for those seeking a university education at a campus recognized for excellence in teaching, research, community outreach, and citizenship.