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.

1. Presidentes de sección y comisiones 

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.

2. Junta de la sección

Mi trayectoria como líder comenzó muy pronto, cuando me propusieron para formar parte de la junta directiva de la sección. Por aquel entonces, no podía imaginar que ese sería el inicio de mi camino, no solo para convertirme en una líder segura de mí misma, sino también para descubrir mi verdadera vocación y mi pasión. Formar parte de la junta directiva de la sección no solo te une más a tus compañeros, sino que te permite explorar tus capacidades y dejar una huella duradera en toda la sección.

3. Oportunidades internacionales de liderazgo y creatividad

La Red Internacional de Liderazgo (ILN) ofrece numerosas oportunidades para poner de relieve tus talentos y dedicarte a lo que te apasiona en una plataforma más amplia y reconocida a nivel mundial. Puedes solicitar formar parte de una gran variedad de grupos o redes en los que podrás comunicarte y colaborar con personas de diferentes regiones de todo el mundo. Si tu objetivo es implicarte más, pero a una escala más amplia, esta es la forma perfecta de empezar. 

4. Oportunidades regionales

Tanto si formas parte de la junta directiva de tu sección como si no, dirigir y desarrollar programas para toda tu región o coordinar una convención en su conjunto es, sin duda, la mejor forma que te recomiendo para potenciar tus habilidades de liderazgo. Esta oportunidad te permite poner de manifiesto tus puntos fuertes y demostrar tu creatividad, además de mostrar tu orgullo y tu espíritu por tu región. Si te interesa formar parte de la junta de tu región, formar parte de la RLN (Red de Liderazgo Regional) es un gran paso, ya que puedes trabajar en un puesto concreto y hacerte una idea de las responsabilidades que conlleva formar parte de la junta regional. Nunca se sabe si conseguirás o no lo que solicitas, pero vale la pena arriesgarse. 

5. Experiencias de verano (Mi estancia en el CLTC)

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.

6. Conocer gente nueva

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.

7. Vivir el momento 

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!