HOBY Ambassadors 2010...Get Ready!
You're about to join an exciting group of individuals, who have experienced Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership, otherwise known as HOBY. And to get ready, you need to know what to expect, right? You also need to know what to bring with you as you prepare for your trip to Tallahassee. Take a look and see what's in store....
- Where will the seminar be held?
- When and where do I check in?
- What should I expect when I get there?
- What are the accomodations like?
- What about religious services?
- When will the program conclude?
- Am I required to participate in the Talent Show?
- May I come and go during the weekend?
- What should I do if I'm not sure I can attend the seminar?
- Who may I contact should I have additional questions?
Where will the seminar be held?
The seminar's headquarters is Studio Green Residence Hall, a dormitory near the Florida State University campus in Tallahassee, but we will be visiting several locations throughout Tallahassee. Studio Green is located at 700 North Woodward Ave, Tallahassee FL, 32304. When you arrive, HOBY volunteers will greet you and direct you to the registration area. Use the map below to get driving directions to the dorm.
When and where do I check in?
All seminar participants should arrive at Studio Green on Thursday, June 10, 2010 for registration. Please remember that Tallahassee is on Eastern Standard Time and plan to arrive on time accordingly. You should have with you any information still required by the HOBY volunteers including Physician forms, insurance forms, release forms, etc, $10 key deposit, your community service materials, and an open mind. Parents should be prepared to help their Ambassadors settle into their rooms, wish them well, and allow them to immerse themselves fully in the HOBY experience.
What should I expect when I arrive?
During your HOBY Leadership Seminar experience, many dynamic leaders-all volunteers from the fields of business, education, government, religion and the professions-will address many aspects of our changing world and the challenges future leaders will confront. The program will not promote any specific political party, business, religion or way of thinking, but it is designed to develop an awareness of present and future issues by actively involving seminar participants in discussions and informal debate on contemporary issues.
You will have the opportunity to ask questions of the discussion leaders throughout the weekend, which leads to a fuller understanding of each issue and topic. The program includes outstanding speakers, entertainment and a special closing program to which your parents are invited.
What are the accomodations like?
Participants will be assigned to dorm rooms with two participants per room, on floors reserved exclusively for the seminar. Staff members are also staying in the same facilities and their rooms will be placed strategically to allow full supervision during the event. Room assignments are made ahead of time by seminar staff and are not negotiable. Ambassadors are responsible for bringing their own pillows, blankets, towels, and toiletries.(See the included suggested packing list.) Everyone will receive nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. We will be serving supper on Thursday evening, however lunch on Thursday will not be provided, so eat before you come. On the Medical History Records Form, please indicate any special dietary considerations, including vegetarianism, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
What about religious services?
We will not be able to accommodate requests to attend off-campus religious services. If you feel this will be a problem, please contact us immediately. An optional non-denominational service will be available on Sunday morning for ambassadors that choose to attend.
When will the program conclude?
Participants may be picked up (at Studio Green only) on Sunday after the Parent's program. Parents are invited and encouraged to attend the closing ceremonies on Sunday, June 13th. This program will include a panel of leading experts in the field of education that will be discussing what you can do to help your student be prepared for college, including presentations by admissions officers of leading Florida colleges. The Ambassadors will also get to share their experience and will be recognized for their participation. Please arrive early-there will be nearly 300 people attending the program and seating will be limited. More information about the event is included in the registration packet you received in the mail. For logistic and insurance reasons, ALL Ambassadors will return to Studio Green on assigned buses following the program. NO EXCEPTIONS.
Am I required to participate in the Talent Show?
No - your participation is entirely voluntary. Signup for the talent show will take place throughout the weekend. Usually 15-20 Ambassadors "wow" us with their musical, comedic, magic, or other talents. It's one of the highlight moments of the entire weekend. Please bring your own musical instrument(s), props, costumes, music etc. Even if you are unsure if you want to participate, come prepared, because most students change their mind after they have experienced the weekend with their fellow Ambassadors.
May I come and go during the weekend?
No. Absolutely not! Once you check in on Thursday, you must stay with the HOBY group until the program ends. If you feel you'll have problems meeting this requirement, please contact your school counselor right away and ask them to designate a replacement for you as soon as possible.
What should I do if I'm not sure I can attend the seminar?
Every year a few unlucky students have to cancel plans to be a HOBY Ambassador. A program like this takes thousands of hours of planning and execution, all by volunteers. Please help us by making your commitment to participate as soon as possible, and staying with that commitment. If we don't have your completed registration materials, your school will be asked to immediately name a replacement. That way every school is assured of a chance to be represented. Please let us know as soon as possible if you can't participate.
Who may I contact should I have additional questions?
Additional questions or concerns should be directed to Steven Hall, North Florida HOBY Leadership Seminar Chair at NorthFloridaHOBY@gmail.com or (850) 541-6954.