During the closing ceremony at the 2022 World Affairs Seminar (WAS), I stood in front of 150 of my peers and proclaimed, “Best week ever.” Cheers arose through the crowded auditorium, instilling the idea that all attendees had as rewarding a week as I did. Speaking in front of a crowd that big is uncharacteristic of me. In a room with all the intelligent and kind people, I felt brave enough to share a bit of my positive experience and testimony. My moment on stage lasted less than a minute. If I had longer, this is what I would have shared.

#1: I discovered a passion for hearing stories from everyone I could. I got to hear from all people related to health and wellness on a global scale. We heard from doctors on the frontlines of the COVID pandemic, highly-ranked military officials doing health work overseas, and a formerly incarcerated mental health advocate. To listen, I sat next to kids from all different backgrounds and from all parts of the world; where else are these conditions possible?

#2: I discovered myself. In a place with all new people and the promise of only a week together, it was easy to settle in and dive into the content we were introduced to. I found things I was passionate about and people I enjoyed to surround myself with. Although not the original goal of the camp, it was a wonderful setting for a week of self-discovery.

#3: I discovered similarities and differences between myself and tons of other motivated teenagers. Scheduled to the minute, sixteen hours a day. I bonded with the people around me quickly. I met friends alike and unlike me. A month later, we have stayed in touch and still love to discuss WAS at any opportunity that arises.

#4: I discovered opportunities. It was a rewarding experience alongside other Liberty High School students. We loved all the times we shared and the memories we made. It was a special place for us to become closer in an academically invigorating environment.

#5: I was inspired, challenged, and engaged. I grew in more ways than one. I grew academically, emotionally, socially, and mentally.

Anyone around me knows that I spent the days following camp telling them about it being the best week of my life. Everyone should get an opportunity as remarkable as that: to be a part of a group that loves to listen and learn, and is encouraging and kind.