Matt Pollock, a sophomore at the University of Michigan, was standing alone on the stage of Auditorium D in Angell Hall, drum sticks in hand. He knew that these hallowed halls had held greatness in them. He knew that great men had stood in this very spot, and a few of these men had earned one of the greatest honors that a man can achieve: the title of Mr. Professional. Most of all, he knew that he could not fail.
Matt had been selected by his fellow peers as the best representation of Alpha Chi Sigma, to compete in a battle royale of other equally qualified candidates. They would be tested, and they would be tried, and in the end, the winner be would crowned Mr. Professional. He became slightly queasy thinking about the tribulations that lay ahead. Was he ready? Had he practiced enough? What if the competitor from ΑΚΨ has extravagant special effects in his talent portion that he can't compete with? Despair began to consume him. He doubted that he could bring honor to his fraternity, and was scared at the thought of facing his brothers after a loss.
Nolan O'Hara, 2010's Mr. Professional winner and a fellow brother of Alpha Chi Sigma, walked into Auditorium D. He joined Matt on stage, and the two looked out into the empty room in silence. Nolan knew what Matt was thinking. After a few seconds, Nolan quietly said, "Are you ready?" The two walked over to their instruments, and performed one last run through of Matt's performance for the talent portion. It was flawless. Hours upon hours of practice had lead them close to perfection. They let the final chords reverberate throughout the hall.
Matt looked up from his drum set, and smiled. He knew he was ready.
Godspeed sir. -Sean
