Linker, who was a drum major in high school, marched in the piccolo section of AAMB this past season. She will begin her duties in this high profile leadership position during Band Camp in August.

The audition, which lasted several hours, included skill demonstrations in conducting, mace twirling, running the band through marching drills and strutting along with personal interviews. There were a total of nine students auditioning, including two incumbent drum majors.

At Purdue, the drum majors conduct the band in the stands at games, and select the songs and cheers that will keep the stadium rocking. The first official appearance for the drum majors will come at the Purdue vs. Akron game on Sept. 10 in Ross-Ade Stadium. Fans who want to see the strutting talents of Linker close-up are invited to check out the Drum Major Breakdown, the traditional close to each post-game band show at the Hovde Hall Fountain. Over the years it has become a showcase for talent and energy of Purdue's drum majors.