The RYLA Experience
by Ross Kozuskanich
 
From April 15-17, I attended a leadership program at Geneva Park, called RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards). This was probably the best experience of my life so far. First of all, the location itself is amazing. Camp Geneva is owned by the YMCA and is located just outside of a forest and beside Lake Couchiching. There are lots of trails to walk along, where I found I could really appreciate nature. As well, the buildings I stayed in were clean and well maintained and comfortable. There were bathrooms and showers (and Wi-Fi!), so if you aren't the most outdoorsy type, you are set. Secondly, what I did at RYLA was incredible.
 
The main focus of the camp was to  learn more about yourself and other people, and to have fun! Before going, I completed a short online survey and from this survey, I received a 24 page behavioural assessment. In this assessment, there is information on how I behave, how I interact, and how I could improve who I am. I also learned the four behavioural styles that people have, and how to recognize these styles in the people around me. I also learned the best way to interact with people that have theses styles, which is very useful, because it allowed me to adapt to better communicate with my friends and family.
 
I also did several team-building activities, both inside and outside, which in my opinion, were the best. Finally, the camp was a LOT of fun. Not only was the material interesting, I also had lots of free time. Everyone there was very nice, I played all sorts of games (particularly card games), and it was easy to be friends with people there. I also played man-hunt, attended a campfire, and on Saturday night, there was a Talent Show, which was incredible, as there were so many talented people, and it was a great opportunity to see them perform. Words aren't enough to describe just how much fun the camp was.
 
So! If you happen to have the opportunity to attend this camp, please do! You might be nervous, but that's OKAY! I was nervous when I first arrived but after a couple hours, you won't be nervous anymore and you'll feel like you've known everyone for a long time. If you go, you will learn so much and have so much fun, you won't want to leave. If you don't go, then you are robbing yourself of one of the greatest opportunities you will every have in high school. 
 
Thank you Rotary, for the many opportunities that you provide our students. We appreciate that you offer these special events so generously to our students.