Have you watched the Band running around in crazy costumes (or in nothing at all) and always secretly wished you were cool enough to join them? Well, you are! And lucky for you, it’s never too late to join. Special correspondent Blake Montgomery is here to give you five reasons why you should become the newest member of the Leeland Stanford Junior University Marching Band (LSJUMB).

Homies: I’ve met the best people in Band, and many of them became my draw mates. Do you want to meet new friends and lovers? Then join Band.

Rally: Looking to spice up your fall wardrobe? Try a bedazzled German beer maid outfit. Tired of everything in your closet? Pick up this flattering muumuu in an understated shade of neon green. Bored with your love life? Try these plaid jorts for some jazzy foreplay.

Learn to play an instrument: … Or not. I’ve been in Band for four years and can only make squeaks on the tenor sax. But section leaders do offer lessons. Joining Band is a casual way to learn a fun new skill and make friends.

Party town down: In Band, we call a party a “sex.” Tenorsex is a party for the tenor sax section. Definitely the best parties I’ve been to at Stanford, and much more low-key than an all-campus party. Joining Band is a great way to learn about your new friends and their drinking habits.

De-stress: Band is the one activity I’ve been consistently involved with for all four years at Stanford. There’s no stress involved. I show up in strange clothes, dance every which way like an idiot and make wacky noises. No worries, no cares. And for some reason, spectators love what we do. I certainly love doing it. It’s so liberating to have no expectations except to be enthusiastic and goofy.

— Blake Montgomery