Why should I join BBYO? I think everyone involved in BBYO has been asked or asked themselves this question. But, once you join, you just know that it is a place meant for you. One thing that really drew me to BBYO is the experiences that are spread throughout the organization. Here are FIVE experiences I think every Aleph and BBG should hope to encounter throughout their time in BBYO.

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Run for Board.

Not only is running for a board an amazing leadership opportunity, but it is also a great way to grow closer to your chapter. When I was an eighth grader in the amazing Orali BBG in NRE: Baltimore, I ran for board the morning after I was inducted as an official member. I had grown close to maybe one or two people in the chapter at this time, but as my term progressed, the board became a family. We would talk to each other about all minor inconveniences in and out of BBYO. People would reach out just to talk on a random Tuesday night. That is something I appreciated, and when BBYO started to feel like home.

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Plan Programs.

Planning programs or helping with the process of planning programs may seem a little intimidating, but pulling off a successful program creates an unmatchable feeling. Working either individually or with chapter boards, chairs, or committees brings amazing opportunities. Even just suggesting a small idea can really make or break a program. Programs are what keep chapters alive and are THE key component of success in BBYO. Events also bring chapters together and encourage everyone to grow closer. 

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Apply for ILN.

Joining the International Leadership Network was one of my greatest decisions in BBYO. The ILN offers tons of opportunities to gain further leadership all across the world with BBYO, such as clubs, cohorts, committees, international coordinating opportunities, exchange experiences, and networks for those on the chapter board. Clubs have been something that has truly connected me with BBGs and Alephs across the International Order. Each year, new clubs are added to the agenda. There are clubs for every imaginable activity or interest you can think of, from architecture and engineering to baking to exploring Israel. All of these get to be done with the virtual company of BBGs and Alephs. 

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Go to Conventions.

A weekend away with a bunch of Jewish teens. Sounds pretty lame, right? NO! This could not be more incorrect. Going to my first council convention and watching council elections showed me who I wanted to be in the future with BBYO. Having to room in a bunk with eleven other girls who were strangers turned into friends made me want to stay involved. Going to conventions creates an atmosphere of people who are just like you and connect you to your council. My favorite part of any convention I have ever been to is Havdallah. Putting your arms around your new friends' shoulders and singing along to Jewish prayers with lights surrounding you is a dreamlike feeling. Conventions open up an amazing time to disconnect from the stressful school life and leave it behind to connect with friends and your Jewish identity. 

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Go to International Convention.

IC. International Convention. It was only the best experience anyone could ever experience. Five days in a rotating location in a hotel with thousands of Jewish teens and new friends. At IC 2023, I was randomly roomed with a girl from NSR, and she soon became one of my closest friends. We text several times a week. IC allows you to meet new people and listen to some of the most inspirational speakers. Hearing David Hogg speak at IC 2023 was a truly life-changing experience. IC was life-changing in more ways than you can imagine. It brings so many Jewish teens all around the globe into one hotel. These five days are filled with fun, Judaism, and some of the most unique experiences. 

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These five experiences and opportunities are only a few of the hundreds of opportunities within BBYO. There are too many to count, and each one will leave you a different person than you were before.

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