Features: A Message from Claes Nobel A Message from Outgoing Student Council Advisory Board Highlights New Student Council College-Bound Advice The Value of Taking AP Classes Begin College Applications Now My Take on the SAT Getting a Head Start Never Hurt Anybody Spotlight on Service -- From your own Backyard to a Nicaragua Village The Power of Committed Citizens -- Helping the Poor in Nicaragua J.M.H. Academy Volunteer Effort -- Cordele, Georgia, Health and Rehabilitation Center Giving Back to Your Local Community Special Opportunities -- Students Take Advantage of Exciting Programs AFS Exchange Program -- Living in Brazil Summer Business Institute -- LEAD (Leadership Education and Development) Summer in Switzerland for Natasa Kovasevic Food for Thought For the Devout Carb-Quitters: New Bread that is Literally Nothing Living Successfully Summer Business Institute -- LEAD (Leadership Education and Development) by Shambrekia' Wise Pleasant Grove High School Texarkana, Texas Last summer I was awarded the opportunity to participate in a program held at the University of Texas at Austin known as LEAD--Leadership Education and Development--Summer Business Institute Program While awaiting my departure date for the two-week program, I read several overviews, but NONE prepared me for what LEAD had in store for me. When I arrived, there were so many opportunities presented before me; I didn't know which one to take advantage of first. I and a group of 29 other students were educated on diverse aspects of the modern business world including marketing, sales, public speaking, teamwork, leadership and development skills, international business, accounting, and my favorite, corporate law. We were also told about various scholarships, internships, and other beneficial programs the University of Texas had to offer. During the closing ceremonies, we heard from our LEAD National President, Richard Ramsey, who spoke words that touched my heart. It truly meant something to me that an adult could be as dedicated to a group of kids that they have never encountered as he is and motivate us to not only have goals but to do everything we could to achieve them as well. Also, I was elected by my peers to represent them as the University of Texas National LEAD Secretary for the 2003-2006 term. I consider this to be a high honor and I plan on doing everything in my power to make sure I fulfill my duties and not fall short of my responsibilities. LEAD has made an extraordinary impact in my life and I know it has made me a better person. Even though my term as secretary ends in two years, I plan to always have a commitment to LEAD. By doing this, I hope to help those who may follow in my footsteps become a part of LEAD and like myself, hopefully they will allow LEAD to become a part of them. Editor's Note: Shambrekia', who will join the NSHSS Student Council for 2004-05, benefited greatly from the LEAD Summer Business Institute for high school students. For more information about LEAD around the country, visit the web site: http://www.leadnational.org/sbis.html << Back to Journal Home page