Hi! My name is Kyle Valibia, and I’m a student at UC Berkeley.

I’m thrilled to share that I have been given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to march with the Mandarins Drum & Bugle Corps!

The Mandarins is a World Class organization in Drum Corps International (DCI), consistently ranking in the top 10 out of 36 elite corps. Ever since I began my marching career, it has been my dream to perform at this level — and now, that dream is within reach.

Participating in Drum Corps has tremendously impacted my life in many positive ways. It is more than just music and marching; it is about pushing my physical, mental, and emotional limits further than what I think I am capable of. I am able to challenge myself both as a performer and an individual. More importantly, it is about making deep connections with like-minded musicians all striving to achieve the same goal: be as flawless as we make ourselves to be.

This year is especially meaningful because it marks my final season in the marching arts, as DCI has an age limit of 21. This summer, I will travel across 12 states, performing in front of thousands of people—the largest audiences I may ever experience.

However, I can’t do this alone. My tuition for this season is $6,200, which covers:

My tuition is due May 17th, with monthly payments of $1200-$1300. Unfortunately as a full time college student carrying other financial obligations, I am unable to earn enough funds to meet these payments. That's why I am reaching out to ask for your support. Any contribution, no matter the size, would mean so much and will help me complete this incredible journey. Even if you can’t contribute financially, simply sharing this with others would mean the world to me!

Thank you for being part of my final marching season and helping me achieve my dream!