Meet Makayla Moreno, Class of 2021 Weslaco East High School Alumni and former member of the Wildcat Regiment. During her time at Weslaco East High School, Adam served as first assistant drum major in 2019 and in 2020 she served as head drum major for Wildcat Regiment. She also served as a member of the WEHS National Honor Society, French Honor Society President, and French Club. Makayla earned her spot as rank No.4 of her graduating class. Makayla marched in 3 consecutive shows entitled; 2017 Andalucia, 2018 Persephone, and 2019 Silk Road. The Regiment was under the direction of Ron Bissett.
One of my favorite memories had to be during my junior year when we received the ‘Best General Effects’ award at a competition. When we drum majors heard our school’s name being announced for the award we were so excited and caught in the moment that we almost forgot to do our salute, which I always think is so funny. It was such a great day and I felt so proud of our band and our accomplishments! Another favorite memory of mine had to be receiving our ‘Division One’ rating at Pigskin for our show Andalucia, which is when I marched as a tenor saxophone. I definitely was not used to carrying an instrument much bigger than the flute, but I was more than happy to be part of the show where I could and I did my absolute best!
“My experience with the Wildcat Regiment was truly an unforgettable one in the best way possible. It was a second home for me that held and still holds my best experiences, memories, and closest friendships. The Wildcat Regiment, especially the directors that I miss so much, will always hold a special place in my heart for the rest of my life. I wish for nothing but the best for them in the years to come! "
The Wildcat Regiment has made many impacts on my life, but to narrow it down, I’d have to say that it has played a significant role in my growth as a person and had a huge influence on my college and career path. I’ve always been a shy, introverted student throughout high school, but being part of the Wildcat Regiment family helped me break out of my shell little by little to the point I was confident enough to audition for drum major. Obtaining that kind of leadership role in the Wildcat Regiment was one that had been way out of my comfort zone before. However, I did not let that stop me and soon enough I became a drum major for both my junior and senior year of high school. I learned so much and grew not only as a leader but as a person. Getting to experience helping the band succeed along with making so many fun memories with everyone made me realize that that was what I wanted to do in my life. I wanted to be part of a group of awesome, hardworking students who all share a love for music and I wanted to guide them in the way our amazing directors have guided us. And with that, I am now majoring in music education and am on a path to becoming a music educator, hoping I’ll positively impact future musicians and students just like our beloved Wildcat Regiment directors."
Makayla is currently attending Sam Houston State University, pursuing a bachelor's degree in music education. Moreno served as a member of the Bearkat Marching Band this past fall semester and is a student worker in the Sam Houston State University School of Music office this past October. Makayla dreams of living a comfortable and happy life as a music teacher at an elementary school. She would also like to travel to Japan or South Korea and would like to take another trip to Disney World with her best friend to visit all of the parks!
"Find joy in every moment of your life and appreciate all of the little things! Don’t dwell on the negatives! Always trust in yourself and never doubt what you’re capable of! Be confident always! Take good care of yourself and everyone you cherish in your life! Lastly, take it one step at a time and you’ll find your way!"