In honor of academic achievement andleadership ability, one of Southern University’s own was chosen to participatein an extensive week-long Leadership Honors Boot Camp.
Tenille Terry, a senior masscommunications major from Shreveport was chosen with 23 other students becauseof her outstanding academic record and leadership potential.
The students from across the UnitedStates, representing various colleges, took part in the journey ofself-discovery in Honolulu, Hawaii in March.
Considered a valuable once in alifetime experience, Terry admits she had some reservations about theexperience.
“I was kind of nervous because Iknew other nationalities representing schools like Harvard, Yale and Princetonwould be there and I didn’t know how they would act. I thought they might bearrogant and uptight,” Terry said.
The honor student’s reservationswere put to rest immediately after meeting the other students.
“Everyone was so open minded. Myperceived notations were wrong because everyone was focused and laid back,”Terry said
When it was time to leave somestudents found departure from Hawaii difficult and were surprised that thebootcamp turned out to be so beneficial.
“I will miss being around everyone.I am really surprised I met so many wonderful people in such a short time,”said Martin Niederste-Ostholt, a student at Princeton University.
Terry said the experience had aprofound impact on her life and changed the way she viewed her collegeexperience.
“It was an eye opener, it made methink. People often think that because you attend a Black college you aren’tgetting the reality of society because it’s not as diverse. I feel like I valuemy education more because ultimately it’s not about the school but theindividual,”she said.
Some students now feel they have anidea on what they want to do in life.
“I have learned so much about myselfand who I want to be. I never thought that 24 people from different walks oflife would become so close in five days,” said Angela Roberts, a student at theUniversity of North Texas.
“The yearly Leadership HonorsBootcamp promises to give attendees a tremendous head start on a lifetime ofachievement. I encourage everyone who is selected to take part in thisexperience,” said John Hines, Executive Director of Honors Bootcamp.
Terry now feels as if she is theBootcamp was a worth-while experience.
“Even though there were feesinvolved It’s an experience of a lifetime and if I had to do it again costwouldn’t have been an issue. I am glad I took part and I was able to take partbecause of help of my sponsors. I am truly grateful and I am better personbecause of this leadership encounter.”
