<p>How legit is the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership program? Has anyone even heard of it?</p>
<p>i've heard of it...some kids from my school went i think...that's all i know</p>
<p>My S did it,and he and I also have volunteered with it for two years.</p>
<p>It's an excellent program, though one has to have an open mind because some of the things that are involved -- cheers, for instance -- are things that some more narrow minded people think are a waste of time. I thought the cheers were fun, and I've seen that participating in HOBY is particularly good for students who have good ideas and good potential leadership skills, but are shy. My S was shy when he went, and HOBY helped him break out of his shell. It also opened the door to other select leadership program opportunities (and I'm not referring to the programs like National Student Leadership Conference, that are pricey programs that send info to virtually any h.s. student whose name the organization can buy.)</p>
<p>Since in general only one student from a school gets to go and that person is selected to represent the school, it also is something that is impressive to colleges. By itself, it won't impress places like HPYS, but participating in HOBY may open the doors to other select leadership programs, such as giving a student an edge to be selected at Boys or Girls State. There are some second tier colleges that give small automatic scholarships to students who have been to HOBY. You can Google to find info. It's also on the site guaranteed scholarships.</p>
<p>The content of the regional HOBY programs also is good -- inspirational as well as excellent info about careers, using the media, politics, doing community service. One can get good ideas that one can use in school clubs and in your life in general. </p>
<p>If one gets selected to be one's regional HOBY representative to the national convention, and if one goes, that's also a very nice honor that can impress the more selective colleges (though, of course, such colleges do attract a fair # of students who have such honors).</p>
<p>D1 was the HOBY rep for her school last year. At the luncheon on the final day (family invited) D2, who is not really "into" taking a leaership role yet, left all pumped up, and hoping to be selected in a few years. </p>
<p>D1 looks forward to returning this year to volunteer and guide the next group of students.</p>
<p>Very up-beat and inspirational. It is on the up and up. Kids leave with a message: "what will you do/give back to your school/community/country? One person CAN make a difference."</p>
<p>My friend did it and she really enjoyed it.</p>
<p>It's really legitimate. I went to the Wisconsin Hoby in June 2006. It was such an amazing experience. Hope you won't skip this wonderful opportunity because you can only go during your sophomore year. I didn't feel cheated of my money or anything because the cost all went to room and food. All the staff and facilitators there were all volunteeres. So were the speakers. And I'm sure you can get fianancial help through your school or other organizations. Hope that helps.</p>