It’s game day and junior Gabby Stiles is performing on the drill team and with the band on the same night. Waking up early to attend rehearsals as well as attending the school day is a part of her daily schedule. 

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She gets assigned homework from both AP and Collin classes to later attend dance class, reviewing what she needs for the performance at the game. Once that’s over, there’s band practice to attend to.

“I don’t really have down time,” she said. “But if I were to get a moment to relax I would use that opportunity to get ahead on homework, sleep, eat a full meal, and hang out with my friends and family.”

Thousands of students across America go through a similar schedule but Gabby says she wouldn’t be able to do any of it without the people she can rely on. 

“My schedule is very packed which can sometimes be stressful, but I have an amazing support system that helps me through it,” Stiles said. “Friends and family are the most important things that are always there to support me.”

Although there isn’t time for relaxation, the exposure to all of these things are entirely worth it and are even rewarding.

“I couldn’t imagine life without doing both,” Gabby said. “It’s one of the best experiences ever.”

Colleges might find this impressive that she’s able to manage and get through the school year, but it isn’t necessary according to dad Todd Stiles. 

Juggling two extracurriculars that demand a lot of time outside of school is something her family members recognize and respect. 

“Gabby works really hard to work for her future,” Todd Stiles said. “All of this will heighten her chances of getting into that one college; it’s not required but helpful.”

“She’s extremely hard working and determined and what she’s doing will get her far,” sister Alex Stiles said. “It’s what I did, and a little effort goes a long way. That goes for everyone.” 

It’s the environment at the Stiles’ household that prompted Gabby’s involvement in music.

“My two older siblings joined band in middle school and they absolutely loved it so it seemed like an awesome opportunity for me,” Gabby said. “I’ve also played piano since second grade so I was already set on the musical track.”

Band director Jamie Weaver is a big part of Stile’s experience and even he is impressed with what she does. 

“I can see Gabby’s love for participating in the groups she’s in, especially as a leader,” Weaver said. “I can’t imagine managing the two while staying energetic and executing her best every time.”

The stress that comes with preoccupying herself in multiple activities has the potential to break or make someone, and while Gabby has had moments where she’s considered giving something up, she’s in it for the long haul. 

“I have considered dropping out of each of the organizations before, but my friends encouraged me to persevere,” Stiles said. “Both teams mean the world to me, and I am incredibly grateful to be a part of both.”