After the National Student Leadership Conference this summer, the countless reasons to attend a leadership conference became evident to me. Everyone who attended was glad to have gone, and I’m certain it is the case with a number of other conferences across the globe. If you’re contemplating attending one, here are a few reasons to attend a leadership conference before you graduate high school.
1. Confidence
If you struggle with insecurity, then one of the reasons to attend a leadership conference is to boost your confidence! You’ll be forced out of your comfort zone, but in a safe, welcoming environment. Before you enter the real world, it’s important to build up a considerable amount of confidence. And there’s no better place to do just that than at a leadership conference, where you’ll be making bold moves in front of near strangers every day.
2. Relationships
I could go on for hours about the deep relationships that rise from leadership conferences. While on the first day, you may look around and see strange faces, when you look around again on the last day, you’ll see a family. You’ll build friendships built on trust, honesty, and mutual interests that will never fully die. Before my conference was over, I had already begun making plans to visit my friends across the country later in the year.
3. You’ll Open up
There are things we all wish we could say to someone - hopes, dreams, and secrets. But at home and school, sometimes you feel too vulnerable when revealing these sorts of things. However, at a leadership conference, everyone becomes comfortable with being vulnerable. Because of this, you’ll never be judged or mocked for your feelings, and you’ll finally get a chance to unburden yourself of what’s on your chest.
4. Self-Discovery
Through the process of opening up, as well as taking time to think deeply about what matters to you, you’ll embark on a journey of self-discovery. You can’t underestimate the importance of self-discovery; there is only one you, one amazing, unique you, who you should get to know sooner rather than later. Once you discover who you are, finding your place in the world after graduation will be a much easier process than if you’re still trying to identify exactly who you are.
5. New Skills
Leadership conferences emphasize growth in all sorts of skills. You will be encouraged to work on both intrapersonal and interpersonal skills so that someday you might be an effective leader. You’ll learn helpful public speaking tips as well as get multiple chances to practice your new skills before you return home!
6. New Ways of Thinking
Sometimes, people get stuck in a rut. You are probably no exception to this phenomenon, and may find yourself hooked on the same types of thoughts that your parents or friends have drilled into your head since birth. While there may be nothing wrong with the way you were raised to think, it’s always beneficial to listen to unique opinions and mold your way of thinking as you get older. After meeting so many new people at a leadership conference, whether they are influential speakers or simply your peers, it will be nearly impossible to remain stuck in that rut!
7. Connections
Lastly, a key selling point for leadership conferences should be all of the connections you’ll make. These are the future leaders of the world after all, aren’t they? And you’ll have a chance to get to know them personally! That can only mean great connections down the road.
Aside from being an insane amount of fun, leadership conferences are a great experience for teenagers from all walks of life. If you have been invited to a leadership conference or have the opportunity to apply, don’t ignore it! If you have been to a leadership conference before, what did you love about it?
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why should teen girls attend a leadership conference?
- It helps build confidence, improve communication skills, and connect with inspiring role models.
- What can I learn at a leadership conference?
- You'll learn valuable skills like teamwork, decision-making, and goal setting that help in school and future careers.
- Are leadership conferences only for experienced leaders?
- No, they welcome beginners and provide tools to develop leadership skills from any starting point.
- How can attending a conference benefit my future?
- It boosts your resume, expands your network, and gives you real-world skills useful in college and jobs.
- Will I meet other teens like me at the conference?
- Yes, you'll connect with peers who share your interests and ambitions, making new friends and mentors.
- Is it expensive to attend a leadership conference?
- Some conferences have fees, but many offer scholarships or discounts for teens.
- How can I prepare for a leadership conference?
- Research the event, bring a notebook, prepare questions, and be open to learning and meeting new people.
- What types of activities can I expect at a conference?
- Workshops, group discussions, keynote speakers, and networking events tailored to teens.
- Can leadership conferences help with school projects or clubs?
- Definitely! You'll gain skills and ideas that make you a stronger leader in any group setting.
- How do I find a good leadership conference for teens?
- Look for events hosted by schools, youth organizations, or well-known leadership groups focused on teens.