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Abby Walsh
Science and Music Blend in Perfect Harmony for ESF Junior
SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Nov. 20, 2024 - Music has always held a special place in Abby Walsh’s heart, so when she learned she could attend the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) and perform in the Syracuse University Marching Band (SUMB) the choice was easy.
The junior wildlife science major originally wanted to attend a college farther from her home, 15 miles west of Syracuse. However, after visiting campus and seeing the array of student life opportunities, she changed her mind.
Along with all the ESF clubs, students can join over 350 extracurricular clubs at Syracuse University (SU) thanks to a long-standing partnership between the two institutions. Included in these club offerings are the SU marching band, pep band, drama and musical groups, and sports clubs.
Having performed with the West Genesee High School marching band in high school, joining the SU marching band (SUMB) as a member of the color guard was a natural next step.
“I joined the SUMB because I marched in high school and wasn’t looking forward to giving it up,” she said. The SUMB performs at every home SU football game, giving Walsh numerous opportunities to get out in front of an appreciative audience. She loved performing with the marching band so much that she learned to play baritone so she could play in the Sour Citrus Society pep band at basketball games and continue her involvement.
“The social aspect was also a huge draw for me,” said Walsh. “Most of my friends were made at band rehearsal in high school and now in college.” She’s made lifelong memories with the SUMB including performing at Yankee Stadium at the 2022 Pinstripe Bowl.
While balancing her musical pursuits with her academic workload can be challenging, Walsh has learned to manage both. This past summer, she also completed an internship at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, gaining valuable experience in her field.
During her internship, Walsh learned about the behaviors and general physiology of primates and small mammals. She also prepared their diets and necessary medications.
Walsh offers this advice to fellow students, especially those in their freshman and sophomore years: “Don’t hold yourself back from doing the activities you want to do.”
About SUNY ESF
The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.
By Anna Carman, a writing intern in ESF’s Office of Communications and Marketing, is a senior environmental studies major.