In June, three Trinity Hall students attended the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) seminar at Drew University. During the three-day program, rising juniors Hannah P., Claire C., and Maeve B. heard from leaders in different industries, learned critical thinking skills by participating in discussions and informal debates, and were tasked with completing 100 hours for a community service project that makes a difference in an area of need upon leaving the seminar.
HOBY was founded in 1958 by Hugh O’Brian after a life-changing trip to Lambaréné, Gabon with Dr. Albert Schweitzer, the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize winner. The experience had a huge impact on O’Brian and led him to create HOBY to help young people realize their leadership potential. His legacy lives on through more than 500,000 HOBY alumni who continue to make an impact on the world around them. The three students add to a long list of Trinity Hall ambassadors who have participated in HOBY in years past.
When asked about her biggest takeaway from her HOBY experience, Hannah shared, “No idea is too small or unachievable, and it is perfectly okay to fail. Some of the very inspiring speakers spoke on this and truly showed us that you can do anything, no matter your age or credentials. Another speaker also shared her story with us and showed me that failure can be encouraged because not only does it help you learn a lesson, but it inspires you to move forward.”
Claire explained why working with her peers had an impact on her experience: “My favorite part of the seminar was when we were sorted into groups based on our emotional leadership style.” The exercise first matched students based on the same leadership style followed by groups with styles that were in conflict with each other. “I loved working with people who had a different opinion and view than mine because it challenged me to think in a new way.”
Maeve strongly recommends that her fellow Trinity Hall students participate in the HOBY Leadership Seminar: “Going into the experience, I was very nervous that I was going to feel out of place. The first speaker directly addressed people in the room who felt that way and stated that everyone in that room belonged. HOBY was a really great experience. It was very different from anything I have ever done before. I can’t wait to use the skills I have learned at HOBY in my leadership roles at Trinity Hall.”
“I would definitely recommend this seminar to future sophomores,” said Claire. “I had an incredible time where I grew as a person and a leader, and I made great friends and connections. By allowing myself to be swept up in the experience, I was able to have a transformative experience that is different from anything I have been a part of before.”
Students interested in participating in the 2025 HOBY Leadership Seminar between their sophomore and junior year should contact Mrs. Morreale, Assistant Head for Student Programs and Services, for more information.