On April 17th-19th, several juniors and sophomores represented East Islip High School at a sleepaway weekend event called Rotary Youth Leadership Awards or RYLA. RYLA is a student led program that builds leadership skills and personal growth within teenagers all over Long Island and Queens. This event is filled with fun games, team-bonding activities, guest speakers, and even a dance party!
This event emphasizes the importance of helping your local community and acts as a good gateway to the world of service. In fact, after attending RYLA for the first time in 2024, I was inspired to join the Interact Club and participate in many local community service events, such as the Thanksgiving Day food drive. In addition, students who are already involved in community service can gain connections and inspiration from RYLA.
“I had such an amazing time at RYLA! I met so many amazing people and got so inspired by each individual person I met,” said EI junior Regina Wollack.
“One of my favorite aspects of RYLA has to be Link Tag. It is a super chaotic game if you look it up, and it contributed significantly to my overall memory of RYLA and the friendly relationships with others I built while there,” says Peter Gernard, another EI student who was at the event.
This event is all about getting out of your comfort zone and has helped many timid people, like myself, break out of their shell more. Even if you’re not shy or into community service, but still seem interested in this then you should totally give this a try! This program is generally so much fun and you will meet so many different people there.
I have been a part of the program for three years and I have grown so much from it. It is honestly one of the best experiences I have ever had and I have made so many great memories there. It is such a great community that has taught me so much and allowed me to meet so many amazing people.
“A good candidate for RYLA weekend is a student who is eager to become more involved in their community and make a positive impact by helping others,” Mrs.Rapiejko, advisor of Interact Club, said.
If this sounds like something you might be interested in, then I highly recommend giving this a try. There is an upcoming summer program in Massachusetts that is from July 25th-August 1st or keep your eyes peeled for the next Spring RYLA event that takes place in Riverhead. Information can be found at the RYLA District 7255 website.
If this piqued your interest, then what are you waiting for? Go check it out!