By Katrina Hageman
Two of the three fall 2024 Iowa State University Cyclone Football “Varsity” Marching Band drum majors call the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences home. Thomas Vastine and Emma Mostek, seniors in animal science, started their band careers in fifth grade and have reached the prestigious level of leading the Iowa State Marching Band.
Mostek’s involvement in music and role as her high school’s drum major motivated her to try out for the marching band, following in the footsteps of her dad and uncle, who also were Iowa State drum majors.
“When I initially made the band my freshman year, I did not think I would ever want to become a drum major,” Mostek said. “After multiple seasons in leadership positions within the alto saxophone section, I realized my desire to serve the entire band, which led me to try out for drum major.”
Vastine and Mostek went through a rigorous selection process to become drum majors. During auditions, students must demonstrate leadership, skill, and drive to be considered for a position and even more talent to be in the running for drum major.
“Drum major tryouts may have been one of the most grueling processes of my life. Not only is the process around two months long, but the final interview is in front of the entire band,” Vastine said. “As intimidating as it may seem, the environment of the interview was different than most expect. Rather than feeling put on the spot, I felt a sense of familiarity with everyone around me.”
“At the end of my audition, I was able to walk out of the room with confidence knowing that I gave it my best effort, and whatever the outcome would be, I knew our director and staff members would make the decision that would benefit the band the most,” added Mostek.
Before becoming a drum major, Vastine was a captain of the marching band’s baritone section and student staff member. A native of central Illinois, he grew up learning music and writing in French. His passion for the band started at a young age alongside his love for horses.
Over the past three years, Vastine has worked at the Iowa State horse barn, delivering foals and mentoring other students.
Throughout their collegiate-level marching band experience, both students have learned the importance of time management and having a strong support system.
“Being active animal science students and drum majors requires making good use of your time throughout the day,” Mostek said. “The workload can be very overwhelming, but having peers who are going through the same thing significantly helped my mindset and ability to get through challenges.”
“Being a part of the marching band and animal science major came with a built-in support system,” Vastine added. “Iowa State has a culture that brings people together and gives you amazing opportunities to succeed.”
With spring 2025 graduation on the horizon, both are making the most of their final semester at Iowa State and in the band program by participating in the men’s basketball pep band. In March, Vastine and Mostek will travel to the Big XII and NCAA tournaments.
Beyond college, they are looking forward to their next adventures and are grateful to bring a wealth of memories, education and a network of connections along with them.
Vastine plans to further his career in horse racing and reproduction. Mostek plans to stay in the Midwest and work in the companion animal industry.