ASSIST Orientation 2005 - The Tradition Continues
When ASSIST students complete their year-end questionnaires, we are delighted to read the reflections they share and to learn from their stunningly diverse and sage observations. Among points of unanimity, however, one event stands out every year: they love the ASSIST Orientation.
On August 20, 2005, 131 ASSIST scholars from 13 countries arrived at Pomfret School in Connecticut to spend four days together as a final preparation for the year ahead. Shrugging off jet leg and managing their nervousness, they became part of this wonderful tradition of mutual support, laughter, learning and growth.
I encourage you to read the article that outlines this year's program, which may remind you of your own Orientation if you are an ASSIST alum. The program continues to evolve, and we learn a great deal each year, but one thing remains constant: a small and supportive community emerges in only four days' time. It is absolutely remarkable that so many students from so many different backgrounds and cultures put their own needs on hold and reach out to support the other members of the Class.
This is not only a favorite part of the ASSIST year for the students - for me, these are the four days of the year I enjoy most in my job. The two weeks before Orientation, conversely, are the least enjoyable! It's all about changing flights, bus departures and arrivals, missing batteries for flashlights - in short, excruciating and mind-numbing details, each of which must be managed to make the experience special for our students.
However: Once I close my car door in Suffield, Connecticut, and begin the drive to Pomfret, I can put all of the months of preparation behind and can look forward to spending time with 131 of the most impressive young people in the world. I learn so much every year, I enjoy the company of the students, and my sense of optimism regarding the future of our planet is revived and reinforced. Thinking of these students and their capacity to become national and international leaders, I am reminded that the work of ASSIST is important, and we are privileged to be part of it.
There are a number of interesting stories to read in this newsletter, but I invite you to begin by reading about Orientation. Alumni will find themselves reliving wonderful memories, and our friends, school colleagues and host families will be interested to see how we work with our entering Class to complete a process of transition that began a year earlier.
With best regards,
Bob Stanley
President
