Learning about Leadership
Two rising juniors, Lilly P. and Molly M., were selected as Foxcroft School representatives to the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership (aka HOBY) Conference this year. Founded in 1958, HOBY aims to inspire and develop global youth to a life of leadership, service, and innovation and holds programs for local and international youth across the U.S. each year. Here's Lilly's report:
On June 6th, Molly and I set off to represent Foxcroft at the HOBY Leadership Conference. The four-day conference centered around three perspectives of leadership: individual, group, and community and society. The speakers we listened to, the activities we participated in, and the other kids I met all contributed to an incredible experience.
On June 6th, Molly and I set off to represent Foxcroft at the HOBY Leadership Conference. The four-day conference centered around three perspectives of leadership: individual, group, and community and society. The speakers we listened to, the activities we participated in, and the other kids I met all contributed to an incredible experience.
We listened to many different speakers and panels on topics like leading groups, the future of energy, entrepreneurism, and bullying. We were encouraged not to be passive listeners, and at the end of the discussions we asked many questions – some sparking extensive debate.
There was an emphasis on a lot of the same things we value at Foxcroft, such as compassion, service, and initiative. We spent a day talking about service, and then volunteered at different local causes. My group went to the Ronald McDonald House for families of children receiving care at nearby hospitals. Without the Ronald McDonald House, these families might not be able to afford to stay near their children as they undergo treatment. We cleaned the house and weeded the garden for the people staying there.
Back
At the beginning of camp, we were split into small groups of about ten ambassadors and two facilitators who led us around and shared in our HOBY experience. The people in my group were some of the most amazing people I’ve met. I have no doubt that all of these people have the potential to be future leaders in whatever they choose to do. While we were all unique, I was surprised to see how like-minded we were. Our facilitators were volunteers and HOBY alumni. I never once felt they looked down on us "newbies," even though we were younger. They exemplified the type of role model I hope to be some day. While the seminar had some incredible and thought-provoking activities for us, the most important part of the weekend was the people. Nothing could have happened without the tremendous energy and spirit of the volunteers, which energized the new HOBY ambassadors.
HOBY was a shift in perspective for me. I saw people my own age already accomplishing great things and saw what we could do when we got together. I learned no one was waiting for us to grow up to be effective leaders. We could start making a difference now.
As soon as I had left the Leadership Conference, all I could think about was how I could get back to HOBY. I plan to return next year to volunteer as a facilitator. I also applied to be considered for a place at the HOBY World Conference and was accepted to represent our region! I will be heading to Chicago at the end of July to attend the week-long HOBY World Conference with over 400 U.S. high school students and international students. More details to come!
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An all-girls boarding and day school in Northern Virginia, Foxcroft prepares young women in grades 9-12 for success in college and in life. Our outstanding academic program offers challenging courses, including Advanced Placement classes and an innovative STEM program. Our premiere equestrian program is nationally recognized, and our athletic teams have won conference and state championships. Experience the best in girls' boarding schools: visit Foxcroft.
