As a sophomore, I joined my school’s Interact club after attending a Rotary district conference. At first, I was a little apprehensive about going into it. I quickly learned how much of an uplifting and positive environment Interact is. I also quickly learned that I had a passion for volunteering. Through Interact I was not only able to meet many new students from my school, but I was also able to meet many new people from my community. During my time as an Interact member at Lindbergh High School, I gained new leadership skills. I had the opportunity to serve on the Interact Board for two years and worked alongside teachers and fellow board members to help the club run smoothly.
Through Interact I was given the great opportunity of attending RYLA camp (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) in the summer of 2018. During my time at RYLA I spent three nights at William Woods University. I also gained many friends and new leadership skills at RYLA. However, RYLA isn’t only a leadership camp, but an opportunity for students to learn more about who they are as individuals and to set personal goals. I would recommend Interact and RYLA to any young individual who is given the opportunity to participate in these programs.