BBYO has been the best part of my Jewish identity over the past three years, but specifically, being a BBG has been truly life-changing. Here are the 10 most important things that have influenced my BBG Journey thus far:

10. Spooey
As a BBG, one of the most interesting experiences has to be trying Spooey for the first time. If you have never had it, Spooey consists of a pretzel and a flavor of frosting. Even though some might call it crazy, it is one of the most fundamental parts of being a BBG. My chapter loves to sit and eat spooey during Good and Welfare, and it's the best way to bond as BBGs

9 .Good and Welfare
Good and Welfare is a way for BBGs to bond by sharing anything in their lives at that moment, the good, the bad, and everything in between. It can consist of many different feelings — laughing, crying, and anything else we may be feeling. I remember my first Good and Welfare; I felt like a huge weight had been lifted off my chest, and I bonded with my chapter BBGs on a deeper level.

8. Chapter Programs
It is important to go to Chapter Programs to get the full BBYO experience. Whether that is meeting new BBGs, finding a Senior to bond with, or just going for fun, Chapter Programs can do it all. My first Chapter Program was a Fall Movie Marathon. It was very chill, and I made some of the best connections with other AZA/BBGs within my chapter.

7. Inductions
Being inducted into BBG is one of the most life-changing experiences you can get. When I was first inducted, I remember feeling united with all of the BBGs around the order, and I felt like I understood BBG more than I ever had previously. The traditions and ceremony of inductions are very exciting since you are joining others from your chapter, region, and around the order into the sisterhood and siblinghood that is BBG.

6. Spirit Circle
The Spirit Circle is a fundamental part of BBYO, especially for sister BBGs. Whether it's shouting chants with friends from all over the order or within your chapter, learning Spirit for the first time, or teaching it to the new MITS in your chapter, it feels so exciting. I love seeing all of my fellow BBGs expressing the same spirit as I do, and it makes me feel like I am a part of something greater!

5. Regional Conventions
Regional Conventions have allowed me to connect more with my regional BBGs and learn more about BBYO. My first regional convention was in the spring of my eighth-grade year, and I did not know many people. Now, after five conventions, I have met so many amazing people within my region who are also some of my closest friends within BBYO. Regional Conventions give you the opportunity to experience things like: Maccabiah, Friday Night Shabbats, Guest Speakers, and so much more!

4. Making Global Friendships
Going to Regional Programs has given me a chance to build close relationships with people within my region, but BBYO has also allowed me to meet people from all across the world, some of whom have become my best friends. Going to the International Convention and attending BBYO Summer programs has introduced me to people from all over the world, people from places that I could never imagine!

3. International Convention
The annual International Convention is one of the most unique BBYO experiences. From meeting different BBGs and AZAs from chapters across the world to forming deeper connections with the people in my region, I found that I made so many new friendships. IC also opens you up to different experiences, from listening to different Jewish guest speakers to seeing the sights of a new city each year!

2. BBYO Summer
BBYO Summer is one of the best experiences you can attend. Whether it is a Passport Trip, CLTC, or ILTC, you can ensure that the experience is worth it. I have made some of my closest connections with the people I met at my CLTC session this past summer, and I had such an amazing time that I have decided to go to ILTC.

1. Separates
Separates are the best part of BBG by far! Separates are one of the best ways to bond with fellow BBGs and understand each other on a new level. I love how you can connect emotionally with the other BBGs around you. I always feel much better after attending one! Separates can be a distraction from anything in my life, making it smaller and less stressful, which is why I love them so much!