Golden Gate student Stephanie Cruz to march in Pasadena's Rose Parade

A Southwest Florida student is making history by participating in one of the world’s most celebrated New Year's traditions.

Golden Gate High School junior Stephanie Cruz is set to march down Colorado Boulevard as part of the prestigious Bands of America Honor Band in the Rose Parade held in Pasadena.

"It makes me feel really proud, because I know that I was selected because of my dedication and my hard work, and it makes me really excited to represent Collier County on the national stage," Cruz said.

Stephanie has been passionate about music since sixth grade, starting with the clarinet before discovering her passion for percussion. Now, she will march with the bass drum in one of the globe’s most-watched parades.

"This band only comes together every four years, and it's only for high school students. So I knew that if I didn't do it now, I wouldn't have the opportunity to do it later," said Cruz.

Cruz’s rehearsal week was intense, filled with full-day rehearsals and practice sessions at Angel Stadium as the band prepared for New Year's morning.

"It is amazing how in less than two days, we were able to do our first performance, and how well that first performance sounded. I was honestly kind of tearing up. It was wonderful," Cruz said.

The experience is even more meaningful for Cruz due to the camaraderie among the students from 34 states coming together as one team.

"Hard work can really get you anywhere, and working together as a team is one of the most satisfying things that you can do, like when everything clicks into place, that is one of the best feelings," she said.

Cruz looks forward to returning to Collier County and sharing her experiences with her bandmates, inspiring younger students to pursue significant opportunities. 

The 137th Rose Parade will begin on New Year's morning at 11 a.m.