If you’ve already signed the contract, I’d hate to see you back out because they’re probably counting on you. However, assuming you were offered the contract but haven’t signed it yet, I would personally consider financials. I’d hate to spend thousands of dollars on tour just to turn around and need to pay for college. If you can get a summer internship in mechanical engineering, man take that and march next year. Now…I did Legends straight out of high school and I have to say that DCI was the best experience ever. Not only did I gain music and drill knowledge, I learned valuable life lessons too. Most importantly time management. Plus all the connections that you make within the corps, those last a lifetime and you’ll always have them. I still talk with those I marched with.

Whichever you decide, just make sure yoy march sometime before you age-out. If you don’t, you’ll probably regret it. Whatever you choose man, I wish you the best!