Where will the seminar be held?

The seminar will take place at Albright College, N 13th & Bern Streets, Reading, PA, 19612.

 

Where should I go when I arrive?

Enter the campus through 13th and Bern St and follow the signs for parking and check-in. HOBY volunteers will be there to greet and check-in your student.

 

What kind of program is planned?

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

 

What are the accommodations like?

Participants will be assigned to dorm rooms with up to two participants in each room on floors reserved exclusively for the seminar. Bedding is NOT provided and the rooms can get cold, so participants will need to bring their own bed linens, pillows, and blankets. Toiletries will not be provided. Everyone will receive nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners beginning with Friday lunch (breakfast is not included on arrival day) and concluding with Sunday lunch. On the Medical History Records Form, please indicate any special dietary considerations, including vegetarianism, and we will do our best to accommodate you.

 

What if I need to take medication while I am at the seminar?

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 form set). Make sure to read and comply with the Policy for Use of Medication During a HOBY Event.

 

If necessary, how may I be contacted during the seminar?

Parents, friends, and family members are discouraged from calling students during the seminar due to the disruption this can cause to panels and activities. In case of emergency, your parent(s) or guardian(s) may call the Corporate Board President, Lori Cahill. The seminar will be chaperoned by qualified adults who will be staying at the facility 24 hours a day.

 

Who pays for the seminar?

Your school, caregiver, or sponsor has paid a Registration Fee and will provide transportation to and from the seminar. If you are unsure if you paid the registration fee, please email recruitment@hobypaeast.org with your full name and the name of the high school you attend. 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.

 

What should I wear to the seminar?

Friday morning/afternoon - Please arrive in business casual attire. Please note some activities may require sitting on the ground outside. Examples include skirts, dresses, dress pants, dress shirts, and shoes. 

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• Friday evening - Participants will have an opportunity to change into casual wear for the evening social activities.

• Saturday (service project) - A HOBY t-shirt will be provided for you to wear on Saturday. We may be doing outdoor and/or intensive work. Jeans and closed-toe shoes are required. 

• Saturday evening - We will have a Talent show that night and a chance to change into different attire (casual).

• Sunday - “Sunday Best” business attire - skirts, dresses, dress pants, button-up shirt with tie, and shoes.

 

What about religious services?

Catholic services will be available for students who wish to attend on Sunday morning. There will also be a non-denominational service option as well as a discussion group option to choose from. All students must sign up for one of these three offerings on Sunday morning.

 

What transportation arrangements have been made?

You are responsible for your own transportation to and from the seminar. Please include all details of your itinerary on the enclosed Participant Confirmation Form. If you have last-minute transportation problems, please notify recruitment@hobypaeast.org.

 

What if I am unable to attend the seminar?

If circumstances arise that prevent you from attending the entire seminar, including overnight or any portion of the weekend, we would like to give another student the opportunity to attend. Please email recruitment@hobypaeast.org.

 

What safety precautions are you taking in regard to COVID-19?

For our 2022 seminar, all attendees (students, volunteers, and guests of HOBY) are required to be fully vaccinated. Proof of vaccination is required via the registration forms as well as bringing your vaccination card for verification at check-in. Additionally, all attendees must be masked while indoors, except during meals and in private areas (rooms and bathrooms) of the dorms. We are also running at approximately half capacity of our facility limits to allow for more room during indoor activities, and we will opt for outdoor activities when the weather and schedule permit. 

 

What about Parents/Caregivers?

Please check out our Parents Page for further information about the parents program and information.

 

Whom may I contact should I have additional questions?

Contact us at info@hobypaeast.org!