Five years - although it may seem like a decent extent of time, it can go by in a heartbeat. Being a current junior in high school, I reflect upon all of the actions that I took or wish I had to get more involved and gain more experience within BBYO. Here are my top 7 opportunities that I am suggesting to take advantage of at least once in your BBYO journey.
One of the first chances that new (or old) members can get to start their involvement within BBYO is to apply for a chapter board chair or to be on a committee for an event. Chairs gain insight into how the chapter board works as well as what each of the positions does. Being a part of a committee to plan a chapter event is a great way to get a feel for creating and leading programs and can make you want to run for the chapter board.
My leadership journey began early on by being nominated for the chapter board. Little did I know at the time that this would be the beginning of my path to not only becoming a confident leader but finding my true purpose and passion. Chapter board not only bonds you closer together with your fellow members but allows you to explore your abilities and make a lasting impact upon your chapter as a whole.
The International Leadership Network (ILN) offers many opportunities to highlight your talents and pursue your passions on a larger, globally recognized platform. You can apply to be a part of a multitude of groups and or networks where you can communicate and work together with others from different regions around the world. If you are aiming to become more involved but on a more widespread scale, this is the perfect way to start.
Whether you are a part of your chapter’s board or not, leading and developing programs for your entire region or leading a convention as a whole is by far my most suggested way to boost your leadership skills. This opportunity allows you to display your strengths and demonstrate your creativity, as well as show your pride and spirit for your region. If you are interested in being on your region’s board, being on RLN (Regional Leadership Network) is a great step, as you can work under a certain position and gain a sense of the duties that come with being on the regional board. You never know whether or not you will get what you are applying for, but it is worth taking the risk.
The very first thing I heard pertaining to summer experiences, specifically CLTC, was that it was the “Best 12 days ever!” Wholeheartedly, that could not be more true. My time at CLTC was filled with love, learning, and pure laughter. I could not be more grateful to have found an amazing group of people that match my personality, spanning from New Jersey all the way to Oregon. While there, I gained so many useful ideas to bring back home to my chapter, and my innovativeness and ability to lead improved. Overall, whether it is traveling to different continents or heading to camp, there is bound to be a remarkable summer experience with BBYO meant for you.
Undoubtedly, the most memorable and powerful thing about BBYO that all can agree upon is the connections you make with other Jewish people. This was put into an even deeper perspective for me after attending CLTC, where I was able to come in contact with so many other teens from every place imaginable, some of which I talk to on a daily basis. At IC (International Convention), you meet thousands of teens and can form lifelong friendships that can create a huge impact for you.
As time is, sadly, limited in BBYO, it is crucial that you focus on the present and remember that you have the power to choose your path. Whether you get the outcome you want from something or not, you will never lose anything from any experience, only gain. Don’t stop yourself from going out and achieving what you desire, regardless of how many other people might be aiming for that same opportunity. Plus, it could eventually lead you to discover your true passion. BBYO is a special place where all can be themselves: Make the most out of it!
Drew Spivack is a BBG from the South Jersey Region and loves promotion, bonding, shopping, and the beach!
All views expressed on content written for The Shofar represent the opinions and thoughts of the individual authors. The author biography represents the author at the time in which they were in BBYO.
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