“This summer, I went to the HOBY World Leadership Congress, where I engaged in leadership workshops, connected with students from around the world, and heard inspiring speakers,” said Clara. “I was challenged to think bigger, lead with purpose, and it left me motivated to make a real impact on my community back home.”

Clara’s involvement with the Hugh O’Brian Youth Organization began her sophomore year, when the faculty and staff nominated her to represent St. Cecilia Academy at the Tennessee State Seminar. “I attended and had the most amazing time,” Clara explained. She was one of a few chosen to represent the state of Tennessee at the international HOBY Congress hosted in Chicago, where she met fellow students from across the country and around the world.

“This was truly one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had,” Clara remarked. She spent most of the week with her small group problem-solving key world issues. “My group was absolutely wonderful,” she said. “I learned so many things from each one of them, about not only how to be a better leader, but also how to be a better person. We were all from different backgrounds, and it was truly inspiring to see us all come together to find solutions to problems with our different ideas and experiences.”

Clara believes St. Cecilia prepared her well for this experience. “The incredible leadership opportunities that I have had at SCA are the reason I was chosen for HOBY in the first place,” she explained. “I was also highly encouraged by my teachers and friends to attend the Congress, and I am so grateful for the support that was given to me by the whole SCA community.”

She encourages others to consider the HOBY World Leadership Congress, which is open to applicants who may not have attended the State Seminar. “It is such an amazing way to get out of your comfort zone, travel to a new city, and get a taste of what the college experience is like as well.”

Thank you, Clara Stefansic, for sharing your summer story with us!