Going to CLTC is by far the best decision I have made throughout my BBYO journey. As a younger member, everyone told me that CLTC was the best twelve days of their life. I never truly believed these people because really, how good could it possibly be? Flash forward a few years and here I am, in the exact same position as those older members, urging you to choose CLTC. If you are still hesitant, here are five reasons why CLTC is truly the best choice you can make for yourself.‍

1. The People

Unlike ILTC or Kallah, CLTC is a much smaller group of people. As a result, you can form bonds with nearly every person on your session. I made friends from all over, people ranging from my home state of New Jersey to Oregon and everything in between. Almost immediately, my friends and I became a close-knit ground, and they are truly some of my favorite people in the entire world; I always look forward to talking to and even visiting them. The environment truly allows you to form connections so quickly which is just one reason why CLTC is the perfect place to spend your summer.

2. The Programming

Think back to any memory you have of BBYO, and I guarantee that certain ones overshadow others. This is due to the programming. Programming is the heart of BBYO and every experience within it. Programming can truly make or break every experience you have in BBYO, and when it comes to CLTC, it undoubtedly made my experience. Every morning at CLTC, I looked forward to the programming. The programs at CLTC were innovative, thought-provoking, and genuinely fun. 

3. Jewish Education

When it comes to BBYO, every single one of us has something in common: our Jewish identity. BBYO has always been a place for every single BBG or Aleph to explore what being Jewish means to them. At CLTC, I was given so many opportunities to explore my Jewish identity. There was a place for everyone, no matter what “type” of Jewish you identify with. I came back from CLTC with so much pride for my heritage, a feeling I believe everyone should have a chance to experience. 

4. Valuable Lessons

Not only was CLTC an incredibly fun time, but mainly, it was an amazing learning experience. As someone who was going to CLTC in the summer before my Junior year, I assumed I would not learn anything that I did not already know. However, everyone has someone they can take from this experience. Not only did I learn from staff or programming specifically designed for education, but I learned so much from the people around me. After CLTC, I was able to take away so many ideas to bring to my home chapter. 

5. Memories

Finally, and arguably the most important, CLTC gave me memories to last a lifetime. Whether it is song sessions, laying in hammocks, walking up the Poyntelle hill for meals, or just late night talks in my cabin, I will never forget the twelve days I spent on CLTC. So although it may seem like a cliche when someone tells you that CLTC was “the best twelve days” of their lives, I urge you to believe them.