91����

Students enjoy studies on the regional campus while being members of the marching band

When you think about 91���� certain words resonate in the mind of Buckeye faithful across the state, the country and around the world - tradition, pride, and excellence. Nothing represents those concepts better than 91���� Marching Band. 

So, it is no surprise two 91���� Marion students from different parts of the state have invested the time and energy to be part of one of the most recognized, respected, and innovative collegiate marching bands in the world.

Thinking about the concept of one university with many campuses, provided sophomore Coda Gharis, a music education major/business major from Attica, Ohio and freshman Brian Speckman, an accounting major from St. Mary’s, Ohio the opportunity to transition from high school to a smaller 91���� regional campus like 91���� Marion, yet be part of the tradition and commitment that comes with being part of the 228 member 91���� Marching Band.

Gharis, who is a member of J-row and plays the tenor drums, shared that he loves that Marion is a smaller community. 

“I am from a very small school (class sizes of about 40 or so students) so I am very used to the small atmosphere and enjoy it a lot,” he said.

“Attending 91���� Marion allows me to be more involved in the community and have a larger impact, as well as know many people well and get many connections aside from other students,” said Gharis.

For Speckman a member of D-row as a drum major trainee, who chose 91���� for its Fisher College of Business, the choice to take classes at 91���� Marion was about affordability while still being close to Columbus campus to follow his dream of one day being an 91���� drum major. 

Speckman said, “I love the small campus vibe, whilst still getting a high-quality education. The smaller classes make adjusting easier.” 

For both young men, time management has been their focus attending classes in Marion while finding time to pursue their passion with the band.

“I am not too involved at Marion unfortunately because of the huge time commitment and the new adjustment to living on my own for the first time,” said Speckman. 

Gharis shared that his experience with the marching band has been worth every minute of his commitment, but has challenged his time management skills, mental fortitude and his physicality. 

“The band is extremely physically and mentally demanding,” said Gharis. “Each week has a new set of challenges that come with it, and it takes a lot of strength physically and mentally to be successful.”

“In addition to marching band, Gharis also is the founder of the Music Club at 91���� Marion.  
“I am most proud of being able to successfully create and run the music club, all within a couple of months of having the idea,” Gharis said. 

The two young men have both found happiness and worked hard to follow their dream of being part of 91���� Marching Band.

“Being a member of the marching band is truly an honor of a lifetime,” said Speckman. “I grew up watching 91���� Marching Band and more specifically the drum major. Now being a member of the organization, it is a phenomenal opportunity to not only be a member, but to network and gain valuable experience in such a unique and incredible environment,” he added.

Gharis also shared a great deal of pride in his accomplishments and takes a wonderful lesson of perseverance forward in life.

“If anyone has a goal or aspiration, set out to achieve it no matter how unrealistic it may seem,” said Gharis. “I had a dream of being in the marching band here since middle school, and I was often told that was unrealistic or I had people who had little to no faith in my ability.” 

According to Gharis, rather than letting that get him down, he focused and did everything he had to do to get to this point. 

“Nearly every time I have set a goal in mind,” he said, “I have been able to complete it no matter how bold or unrealistic it may be, through hard work and dedication.” 

“I reflect on where I come from every game day and every time I put on that uniform, and how hard I have worked to get to this point,” said Gharis. “No matter what, if a person has a goal or a dream, they should set out to achieve it and do everything they can to make it happen. It may take years, but eventually I do believe it will pay off in some way.”

After college, Speckman hopes to get his CPA and licensure in accounting and work handling finances for a company. For Gharis, parlay his experience with the band into a career working in music, instructing a large marching band or drumline.  For each of these students, there passion to be part of one of the most respected bands in the world has driven their competitive nature to achieve their dreams.