Alumni Stories

Alumni Stories

ALUMNI STORIES

"HOBY has given me the knowledge, drive, and sense of belonging to become a better human being. Through the 10 cumulative days between HOBY Delaware and the WLC, I have learned how to improve upon myself as a friend, a leader, and a member of my community. It is difficult to put into words just how much HOBY has affected any one of its ambassadors, but there's no need to. There is no denying there is an unquantifiable power within HOBY that shapes all those who come through it for the better. Ambassadors may only be gone for a few days, and yet they come back more confident in themselves and their ability to make change in their lives and of those around the world. HOBY Delaware was my first taste of Hugh O'Brian's legacy. And yet, in only 3 days and 2 nights, it has opened my eyes to the reality that I can make change in this world, just as it did for my fellow 2022 alumnis, and just as it will for all those to come. The future is with us, and it is therefore up to us to see it through."
Constantine Arellano
HOBY Delaware 2022 and World Leadership Congress 2022
"My time with HOBY has been nothing short of transformational. HOBY quickly established a community that is supportive, passionate, and knowledgeable. From listening to speakers at seminars, I have been able to form a detailed view of the world that is not just limited to my direct community. Since my time as an attendee at HOBY, I have become the event director for a prom night for individuals across the state with special needs, held an internship with the governor's office, and am currently developing an initiative for youth to get involved in state politics at Legislative Hall in Dover."
Carl Rifino
HOBY Delaware 2021 and World Leadership Congress 2021

"When I sent in my ambassador application for HOBY Delaware's virtual 2021 seminar, I had no idea how much of an impact the experience would have on me. HOBY Delaware 2021 was truly the first virtual experience I had as a student where I actually felt engaged with learning. This year, when I got to be a Team Alumni member at HOBY Delaware, the boundless energy and collaborative environment in person only improved upon my positive experiences from the virtual year. From using teamwork to solve a virtual escape room as an ambassador last year to late nights planning activities as a staff member this year, HOBY draws out every character trait of mine that makes me a leader. HOBY Delaware awarded me with the amazing opportunity to attend the HOBY World Leadership Congress on a full scholarship; The experiences I had at WLC, along with my time as a TA, have made me all the wiser by giving me the tools to confront my own worldview. It is such a unique HOBY experience to be able to grow as an individual while simultaneously helping younger students grow. I am so excited to return to HOBY next year and I can not wait to help other students enjoy the experiences that have become so valuable to me as a HOBY Delaware Alum!"


Emani Larkin
HOBY Delaware 2021 and World Leadership Congress 2022