Two 11th grade students, Sam McRae of Grace Christian Academy, and Misael Vasquez of Bainbridge High School, entertained and informed Bainbridge Rotarians this week about their experiences as attendees at RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) this summer.

RYLA is a program that originated with Rotary International, and is now offered by Rotary Club districts around the world. The one for Rotary District 6900 is held on the campus of Georgia Southwestern University in Americus. Prospective students, chosen by local Rotary clubs for their leadership potential, attend with all expenses paid.

The two boys said they were both a bit apprehensive about attending where they didn’t know anyone. In fact, the two from Bainbridge did not know each other before. As they were the first participants to arrive, they were greeted with loud cheers and screams when they went to register. At that point they were assigned to color coordinated teams, easily identified by their headbands. Each team had 19 members and their first activity was called the tarp flip. All 19 members of the team were crowded onto a tarp, where they necessarily had to get physically close to strangers.

Prior to their arrival, each student completed a questionnaire listing the five words that best described their personality. The information was then used in assigning roommates.

McRae said his personality was termed Dominant, while Misael’s was deemed Influence. The information also aided in their understanding of how they interact with others.

They received training on conflict resolution, saying the presenter got their attention immediately with his opening statement, “All conflicts start with stupidity.” The two said he made them realize when they are wrong, and how to fix it.

They participated in team building exercises to build trust, and another activity was breaking a board with their bare hands.

Vasquez showed his board with his goals written on one side of the board, and his fears on the other. With the power of an open hand he had broken the board of fears to reach his goals.

The last night was filled with entertainment in a talent show, followed by a dance.

Both boys spoke of the last day and how hard it was to leave their new friends. Each was given a piece of yarn meant to be a reminder of the bonds they forged.

“We ended up not wanting to leave,” said Vasques, as McRae agreed it was a lasting experience.

A question from the audience inquired as to their plans after graduation. McRae said he will attend college to become a civil or structural engineer, but had not decided on the college. Vasquez said he plans to attend UGA and study how to create special effects for films.

The two interacted very well in their well prepared joint presentation, an indication of how well acquainted and comfortable they had become with each other. They thanked the club for giving them the opportunity to attend and said they will definitely recommend others to attend.