Graduation Testimonials

TJC graduate leaves legacy as member of both Apache Band and Apache Belles

Not many can say they’ve experienced being a part of both the Apache Belles and Apache Band during their time at TJC, but Alexandria Torrance now has an incredible story to share.

Growing up in Fort Worth, Torrance took dance classes from the age of 2 and eventually played trombone in her school marching band.

“Competition and performance were always my thing,” she said.

A friend from her dance studio encouraged her to try out for the Apache Belles.

“I never did drill team at my high school, so I wanted to try something different in college,” Torrance said. “I skipped a dance competition to come try out for the Apache Belles and I made it in!”

As an Apache Belle from Fall 2021 through Spring 2023, she was a dance captain and a chaplain for the 75th line and traveled with the team to Dublin, Ireland, to perform in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in March 2023.

Her love for playing the trombone had been put on hold during her two years as an Apache Belle; but as fate would have it, she ended up needing one more semester to graduate.

Before the Fall 2023 semester began, she contacted TJC Director of Bands Jeremy Strickland about trying out for the Apache Band.

“So, I tried out and I ended up making it!” she said. “I remember sitting in the stands and listening to the band and how good they were. I have music in my heart, and getting to fulfill that dream has been so special and something I can barely describe. Getting to do both and getting the best of both worlds: high kicking and playing my trombone.”

The last Belle to also be a part of the Apache Band was a member of the 60th Apache Belle line.

“We’ve had a few others who have done this – we think 1 or maybe 2 in the last 30 years – but that’s it,” Strickland said. “She was an instant contributor and a friend to all. I’m a huge fan.”

Torrance also joined the TJC Trombone Choir and the Jazz Trombone Collective and Ensemble. 

She says it was truly a blessing and provided some closure for her to get to perform with the Apache Band at this year’s UIL State Marching Contest, since her high school marching career had been cut short due to COVID.

She said it was unexplainable to describe the feeling she got being able to perform in front of the band, and inside the band at TJC.

“From the very first note, [Apache Belles intro song ‘Great Day’ on the field is unexplainable,” she said. “Getting to perform in front of all those people and to do something that I love. I love performance. Getting to do that was truly a highlight of my college career.”

Torrance said she would be remiss if she did not mention the wonderful support she received from both Strickland and the Apache Belles Director Jasilyn Shaefer.

“I’ve made a lot of connections here at TJC, and there are a lot of people here that want you to succeed in life,” Torrance said. “That’s what I really appreciate about TJC: It helps you transition and grow and develop those connections and they’ve helped prepare me for my future career.”

She admits she would not have been able to do the things she’s done without the help of these significant people, and that these incredible experiences have made history at TJC.

“I was the very first to walk the rim in a band uniform with the Belles,” she said. “At every TJC Homecoming, the Belle Gold alumni come back — members from the very first line through the current line — and walk to the rim around Rose Stadium before the football game. I got to wear my full band uniform and walk with the 75th Apache Belle line.”

Now graduating on Dec. 16 with her Associate of Arts degree, Torrance will be the first in her family to graduate from college. She plans to study occupational therapy and hopes to eventually work with children, but says she’ll manage to squeeze music and dance in there somehow.

As for advice she’d give those just beginning their college journey at TJC, Torrance says to get involved.

“Join something! Do what you love to do, because it will make your experience here so much more fun and fulfilling,” she said. “Had I not been a part of both Apache Band and Belles, I would have missed out on so much.”