On late Saturday evening, CYL could be found serving in the shadows of the bright lights of Folsom Field. During the annual trip to the University of Colorado-Boulder, CYLers got a close up of campus life and the student experience at a CU Football Homecoming game. Students walked wide-eyed into the stadium behind the CU marching band, and were caught up in the excitement of Ralphie the Buffalo.
CYL annually partners with the President’s Leadership Class (PLC) at CU-Boulder to learn more about how they can take their leadership to the collegiate level. By serving alongside members of PLC, our CYLers have a unique experience to build authentic relationships, and to ask more in depth questions than they would typically via a campus tour or visit. This experience offers CYLers a chance to envision themselves on a college campus, and to see if such a large university is a good fit for them. It provides an engaging experience, that is difficult to duplicate on a traditional college tour. ‘PLCers’ and ‘CYLers’ worked alongside each other on the Green Stampede Zero Waste Team, to help divert trash from the 50,000 fans attending the Homecoming game. CYLers learned about the zero waste system on campus, and offered them ideas to implement recycling and compost programs at their own high schools. They learned that PLC offers students a chance to develop strong friendships, and meet people outside of classes or a specific major. Our students left feeling inspired by the possibility to continue their service in college, and build a strong community while doing so.
It’s not always the bright shiny work that holds the most value. It’s the work that is done when no one is looking, or when attention is focused elsewhere, that matters the most. It’s doing your part because it’s the right thing to do. CYLers are the ones who are taking care of others and their communities without the requirement of recognition or award. It’s what you do when no one is looking that defines who are as a leader.
Learn more about the President’s Leadership Class.