Reflections

South Africa

"Spending time in South Africa with the Lombardi Scholars opened my eyes to things I never knew. I’m not just talking about how young democracy is in the country and how borderline novel it is for the continent. I’m also talking about what makes the other scholars laugh and what really grinds their gears. Winter in May, English with accents and drivers on the left side of the road made South Africa unforgettable. But, 16-hour plane rides and dozens of bus rides made it that way too. As I continue to piece together a plan for the future – which could range from journalism to oral history to the forest service – I’ll undoubtedly return to my South African experience for reference."
    --Tyler Martin Benjamin '09

Outward Bound

"Outward Bound focuses on leadership training through wilderness experiences. This week long trip brought our class closer than any could have foreseen and left us with amazing stories. Excursions, such as the sailing trip my class took, challenge people by placing them outside their comfort zone. This allows people to discover their strengths by overcoming their weaknesses. The ability to step up as a leader in unfamiliar circumstances is key to success, and Outward Bound attempts to empower people to do just that."
    --Austin Reed '10