Five Episcopal Academy students recently returned from a week of collaborative learning and leadership with the Global Youth Leadership Institute.
Students spent three days sailing on the Mystic Whaler off the coast of Connecticut with rising sophomores from other schools. Upper School science teacher Steve Kerwin led the group that included Hope Biddle, Olivia Cipperman, Hannah Pang, Harry Pusey and Ann Elisabeth Rau.
Jay Familetti, Jacob Viscusi, and EA Theater Director Kelly Bertucci will attend the GYLI session in July.
GYLI is a three-year sequenced learning experience. During the second summer, students travel to the mountains of New Mexico and explore their personal leadership vision. During year-three the focus shifts to world engagement with travel to Costa Rica.
Below are some of the reflections and observations from EA students who attended the June GYLI trip.
My GYLI experience was completely different than I imagined it would be before we got to Connecticut. I met new people and it didn't take long before we all came together to form a big group filled with unique people across the country (despite the awkwardness at first). Once we started our journey on our ship, the Mystic Whaler, we all connected and had so much fun. I will never forget the strangely intense Uno games we had, the embarrassing (but fun) dancing we did during our drum circle, and the climb to the top of the Mystic Whaler. I honestly did not want to leave on the last day because I wouldn't see the majority of the group until next year; however, as sad as it was to leave, I left with memories that I won't be able to make anywhere else. Overall, GYLI was the most fun I've had in a very long time and I encourage others to try it. It really is worth it.
Hope Biddle '19
My experience at GYLI year one was nothing short of spectacular. First, there was the unique opportunity to sail a schooner around the beautiful shores of Connecticut. This taught the participants about teamwork, and it was also incredibly fun! I also learned a great deal about my own leadership abilities on this trip, partially through the lessons and activities provided by the program and partially through my contributions to the group dynamic of the participants. I believe that every student in the program is a leader, and we bonded on the trip as friends and fellow advocates for cultural awareness and individual leadership. GYLI year one was really a special experience for me, and I'm already excited for year two in New Mexico!
Olivia Cipperman '19
GYLI was an amazing experience that helped contribute to my skill set of collaborative leadership. I am looking forward to growing more in the next two summers and strengthen the relationships that I made this summer with the other kids. It was amazing to see all of us connect over the five days and come together to achieve daunting tasks as a group. This trip was one of the best experiences of my life. I look forward to the next two summers!
Ann Elisabeth Rau '19
EA students were selected for GYLI 2019 in the fall of freshman year after completing an application process.