FOR STUDENTS
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Where will the seminar be held? The seminar will take place at Hobart and William Smith College – 300 Pulteney St, Geneva, NY 14456.
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When will the seminar be held? Seminar participants may register anytime after 7:30 am but before 9:00 am on FRIDAY, June 14th, 2024 at Jackson Hall and Rees Hall, 445 Pulteney Street, Geneva, NY 14456. The seminar will begin with Ambassador Orientation at 9:30 am SHARP and conclude with Closing Ceremonies on Sunday June 16th, 2024 at 12:00pm. You must be present for the ENTIRE seminar, including overnight.
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Where should I go when I arrive? HOBY guests will be staying in Jackson Hall and Rees Hall. Follow the HOBY signs on campus. A HOBY volunteer committee member will greet you and check you in.
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What kind of program is planned? During your HOBY Leadership Seminar, many dynamic leaders—all volunteers from the fields of business, education, government, and other professions—will address aspects of our changing world and the challenges future leaders will confront. The program will not promote any specific political party, religion, or way of thinking; but is designed to develop critical thinking skills by actively involving participants in discussions and informal debate. During the seminar, you will be asked to undertake a community service project(s) involving at least 100 hours during the year following your seminar, to make a difference in your school, community, place of worship, or other environment where you see a need. The program also includes outstanding speakers, leadership activities, social events, and a special closing ceremony to which your parents are invited.
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What are the accommodations like? Participants will be assigned to dorm rooms with 2-3 participants per room on floors reserved exclusively for the seminar. Please see the Ambassador Rules & Regulations Form for what you are to bring. Everyone will receive nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners during the seminar. Breakfast is NOT provided upon arrival to the seminar. On the Medical History Records E-Form, please indicate any special dietary considerations, including vegetarianism, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
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What if I need to take medication while I am at the seminar? Please provide information about your medication in the Health and Safety section. Make sure to read and comply with the Policy for Use of Medication During a HOBY Event.
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If necessary, how may I be contacted during the seminar? Parents, friends, and family members are discouraged from calling students during the seminar due to the disruption caused to panels and activities. In case of emergency, your parent(s) or guardian may call Nichole Scholl at 315-264-2559. The seminar will be chaperoned by qualified adults who will be staying at the facility 24 hours a day.
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Who pays for the seminar? Your school or parent has paid a Registration Fee and will provide transportation to and from the seminar. All costs for meals, lodging and training materials have been generously provided by sponsors throughout our state, including businesses, foundations, individuals, and service organizations wishing to support leadership education.
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What should I wear at the seminar? Dress is casual throughout the weekend. Sunday is “dress-up.” You will be provided a HOBY t-shirt to wear during the weekend.
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What about religious services? Due to the distance of the closest religious facilities, the cost and logistics of coordinating transportation as well as ensuring the safety of all participants and volunteers, we are regretfully unable to facilitate access to religious services during the seminar.
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What transportation arrangements have been made? You are responsible for your transportation to and from the seminar. Please include all details of your itinerary on the enclosed Participant Confirmation E-Form. If you have last minute transportation problems that may interfere with your timely arrival, please call Nichole Scholl at 315-264-2559 or Paul Schult at 315-825-1649.
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What if I am unable to attend the seminar? If circumstances arise that prevent you from attending the entire seminar, including overnight, we would like to give another student the opportunity to attend. You must notify the HOBY contact at your school (your guidance counselor) before Friday, May 19th, and follow up with an email to relations@hobynycentral.org
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Who may I contact should I have additional questions? Additional questions or concerns should be directed to Nichole Scholl at 315-264-2559 or Paul Schult at 315-825-1649.
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What action should I take now? With your parent or guardian, carefully review, complete and sign the electronic forms online and download and print necessary forms by Friday, May 24th, 2024. Be expecting a phone call from a HOBY member prior to the seminar.