UNCBAA is spotlighting our members! We ask their favorite band memories, their role in the band and what they are doing today. Today, we hear from Jialynn Wang from the Class of 2002.
Q: What years were you in band?
1995–2001.
Q: What instrument did you play?
Athletic & Spirit Bands (Marching Tar Heels & Pep Band).
Q: What are you up to now?
I am a pharmacist officer in the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps (USPHS), where I have spent my career protecting, promoting, and advancing the health and safety of the nation. I have been privileged to serve underserved communities on a local level and respond to natural disasters and disease outbreaks across the nation and around the world. I live with my family in Maryland and spend my downtime pursuing crafty hobbies and planning our next vacation destination.
Q: How did UNC Bands prepare you for what you are currently doing?
Q: What is your favorite UNC Bands memory?
Traveling with the marching and pep bands to bowl games and tournaments was a highlight of my college experience. Skip classes to travel with your friends, cheer on your team, and collect per diem? Yes, please! I’ll never forget the royal treatment we received when traveling with the basketball team—Dove ice cream bar snacks on the chartered flight and police escorts through town. I regularly “sell” the college marching band experience to high school kids to encourage them to continue to play—it all pays off in college.
Q: Favorite school song?
“Hark the Sound” — Win or lose, playing this song at the end of a game reminded me I was among family and part of something truly special.
