By: Tyler Meyers
Hunter Sasala, a face most notably known by the greater Wallenpaupack area as one of this year’s gold-caped drum majors leading the marching band in football games and parades alike. However, past the glamor of the uniform, Hunter is a student who is well involved throughout the school and can be found participating in all types of clubs and extracurriculars. During his high school career, he has been a proud member of the WAHS marching band, concert band, jazz band, and wind ensemble. Additionally, he has been a member of WAHS concert and chamber choir for four years and show choir for two years, as well as four years with the WAHS theater players, the 2026 class vice president for all four years, is a member of the National Honor Society executive council, and is also a student ambassador. Among his lengthy list of activities, he sports achievements such as being trombone section leader before his time as drum major, being a multi-year recipient of the Gold Award for Academic Excellence, and being a selected member representing Wallenpaupack on the Wayne County Youth and Advisory Committee. Though among all his accomplishments, he notes that earning spots in the PMEA District and Regional festivals for choir, band, and orchestra, culminating in a selection for the 2025 All-State Orchestra.
After high school, Hunter hopes to attend the Smeal College of Business at Penn State University, where he will pursue a degree in marketing or management and join the Blue Band. He can be quoted stating that after graduation he will miss “the little moments—like walking through the halls, seeing familiar faces, and sharing laughs with friends. I’ll miss the teachers who guided me, the friends who stood by me, and all the clubs and activities that made each day exciting. It’s those everyday memories—the ones you don’t realize are special until they’re behind you—that I’ll carry with me the longest.” The memory he will hold most closely past high school is conducting his first home game after being selected as drum major and standing in front of his peers, family, and friends, he felt that “leading the band under the stadium lights was an unforgettable moment of pride, excitement, and connection.” He would like to extend a personal thank you to Mrs. Sandercock, writing that “Her classroom was always a place of inspiration, challenge, and growth. But beyond the lessons and lectures, she became a mentor who consistently offered wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering support. Whether I was navigating academic hurdles or personal decisions, Mrs. Sandercock was there with a listening ear and thoughtful advice. Her impact on my life extends far beyond the curriculum, and I am deeply grateful for the role she has played in shaping who I am today.”
