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Once you are registered to attend a HOBY program, get ready for an amazing adventure! You’re going to experience an enthusiastic learning environment like no other you’ve ever seen before. You’re going to learn a lot; you’re going to laugh a lot; you’re going to meet many dynamic and exciting people; and you’re going to make a lot of new friends along the way.

But how much you get out of your HOBY experience depends entirely on you. We challenge you to be open and willing to step outside the box and embrace the experience that’s being offered to you. Here are some typical student questions and answers to help you prepare for your HOBY experience.

Q: WHEN AND WHERE WILL THE PROGRAM BE HELD?
A: HOBY Utah is one of over 70 HOBY Leadership Seminars that take place each year throughout the country from March through June. The Utah Seminar will be held at Aspen Grove in Provo Canyon. The Leadership Seminar will be 3 days long. Seminar participants may register any time after 7:30 am but before 9:00 am on the first day of the seminar, Thursday, May 10, 2012. The seminar will begin with Ambassador Orientation on May 10 at 9:00 and conclude with Closing Ceremonies on May 12 at 1:30. You must be present for the entire seminar, including overnight.

Q: WHERE SHOULD I GO WHEN I ARRIVE?
A: Go to the Emerald Lodge. A HOBY volunteer committee member will greet you and check you in.

Q: WHAT KIND OF PROGRAM IS PLANNED?
A: During your HOBY Leadership Seminar, many dynamic leaders—all volunteers from the fields of business, education, government, and other professions—will address aspects of our changing world and the challenges future leaders will confront. The program will not promote any specific political party, religion, or way of thinking; but is designed to develop critical thinking skills by actively involving participants in discussions and informal debate.

During the seminar, you will be asked to undertake a community service project(s) involving at least 100 hours during the year following your seminar, to make a difference in your school, community, place of worship, or other environment where you see a need. The program also includes outstanding speakers, leadership activities, social events, and a special closing ceremony to which your parents are invited.

Q: WHAT ARE THE ACCOMODATIONS LIKE?
A: Participants will be assigned to a lodge with other participants reserved exclusively for the seminar. You must bring a sleeping bag, toiletries, and your own towel. Everyone will receive nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. The first meal served will be lunch on May 12. On the Medical History Records Form, please indicate any special dietary considerations, including vegetarianism, and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Q: WHAT IF I NEED TO TAKE MEDICATION WHILE I AM AT THE SEMINAR?
A: Please provide information about your medication on the Medical History Records Form and bring the Physician Medication Verification Form with you to the seminar (documents are included in this packet). Make sure to read and comply with the Policy for Use of Medication During a HOBY Event.

Q: IF NECESSARY, HOW MAY I BE CONTACTED DURING THE SEMINAR?
A: Parents, friends, and family members are discouraged from calling students during the seminar due to the disruption caused to panels and activities. In case of emergency, your parent(s) or guardian may call Bob Ross at (801) 885-2411. The seminar will be chaperoned by qualified adults who will be staying at the facility 24 hours a day.

Q: WHO PAYS FOR THE SEMINAR?
A: Your school or parent has paid a $150 Registration Fee and will provide transportation to and from the seminar. All costs for meals, lodging and training materials have been generously provided by sponsors throughout our state, including businesses, foundations, individuals, and service organizations wishing to support leadership education.

Q: WHAT SHOULD I WEAR AT THE SEMINAR?
A: Dress is casual throughout the weekend. Saturday is “dress-up.” You will be provided a HOBY t-shirt and there will be an announcement as to when you will wear the t-shirt during the weekend. Since we are in the mountains, a coat is needed.

Q: WHAT TRANSPORTATION ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE?
A: You are responsible for your transportation to and from the seminar. Click here for directions to the seminar.

Q: WHAT IF I AM UNABLE TO ATTEND THE SEMINAR?
A: If circumstances arise that prevent you from attending the entire seminar, including overnight, we would like to give another student the opportunity to attend. Please return these forms to the person at your school who selected you, and follow up with a call to Bob Ross, (801) 785-1261.

Q: WHO MAY I CONTACT SHOULD I HAVE ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?
A: Additional questions or concerns should be directed to Bob Ross, Leadership Seminar Chairperson.