RYLA

At RYLA, as each of those five days went by, I could see myself being molded into a better person. The RYLA atmosphere was a special thing?"it was a place of warmth and comfort, a place where every member supported each other with a smile or a hand. In the hallways, even if someone saw another person for the first time in their life, they greeted each other with a jubilant HELLO. Participating in RYLA '08 was an unforgettable, rewarding experience, and the counselors were awesome creating such an fun and varied agenda. RYLA was nothing like a nerd camp!

The list of things RYLA has taught me, is endless: I have learned about different styles of leadership; I have learned more about myself and others, and how to better contribute to service in society globally and locally; I have learned the importance of working as a team (Go G-RAD!); I have learned more about how to be an effective communicator; I have learned how to square-dance at great speeds; and I have learned that your reactions to things that occur in life are more important than the events themselves. Doctor McGuffie was a particularly inspirational speaker.

Lastly, this conference has taught me how to cry. Going into RYLA, I was not an emotional person, but the last day, I was so overwhelmed with a collaboration of feelings, I cried. And it felt good. I'm so enthusiastic about this conference, because it was a gathering of so many exuberant, genuine people for the common good, which was refreshing. Most importantly, RYLA has motivated me not only to become a better person, but to strive for a better world through service and leadership.

I didn't expect for RYLA to leave such an immense impression on me, but I clearly underestimated the power of people, and the power of leadership. Thanks so much for coordinating this outstanding event--H.A.P.P.Y. I Looove RYLA!

Sincerely,

Jill C.

Katie Jr.