SPARK Conference
I recently had the privilege of attending the SPARK Conference, hosted by the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce. This event was significant to me because it reminded me that dreaming big isn’t always impossible. The presenters at the conference mostly started from nothing, and worked their way up the ladder to where they were today. From being the CEO of their own company, to owning the biggest small league baseball franchise in the world. One day, I’d like to achieve my doctorate degree in psychology. Some would stay that’s exceedingly difficult to do. I’ve had my doubts in myself, but this conference reassured me that I can do it. This will help me in the future by reflecting back, and remembering how all you need is a drive and an open mind.
My Enlisting Experience
About a month or so ago, I enlisted in the United States Air Force. In hopes that I can get my master’s degree while in active duty. But, the experience of going to MEPS (Military Entry Process) changed my life for the better. Before going to Syracuse to swear in, I was quiet and shy. It was hard for me to talk to the receptionist when I first got there. Then, my mom left. This was the first time I had to do something extreme by myself. Throughout the two days, I opened up. We had extra time before going to the next station, so I tried to make as many friends as possible. By the time my mom came back the second day, I was speaking to people for her. Being exposed to that sort of life changed my outlook on life entirely. Mistakes are just mistakes, people are just people, and they’re just doing their jobs. After being exposed to the military life in the slightest bit, I came back to my life and was more outgoing. I’ve made more friends, and expanded my networking. I also was more driven to help more. After teaming up with my aunt, I helped her sell flower bulbs for the American Cancer Society. In the end, we each raised 54 dollars, or half the profit, for the cause.
Leadership Camp
Last summer, I had the opportunity to be selected to experience a week long leadership camp at Corning Community College with a group named the Youth Leadership Institute. This camp was an experience I’d never take back. The first day we went to BOCES to working our team, where we were able to show our leadership skills we were bringing to the table. The following days were focused on being a strong leader, and building a strong team. Along with how to deal with difficult people, and how you can improve your skills. At the end of the week, we were all sad to leave each other, many of us are still friends to this day. But, the camp was an opportunity that happens once in a lifetime. The Youth Leadership Institute gave me skills I will carry with me throughout my life.
Morning Mentor
Our class, iLead, hosted a Morning Mentoring meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to thank the presenters who have spoken to the class. But, also to spend the morning talking to the professionals in the community. Our class has 11 kids, so all of us had to play a part in the meeting. No one could stand in the shadows and not experience the event. The event was scary going into it, but helped bring light to my more outgoing side. Which I believe will benefit me in the future greatly. The meeting showed me people are just people, everyone messes up, and practice makes perfect.