Whenever I look back at my CLTC experience, I am overcome with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I am beyond grateful to have been able to attend CLTC 2 2023 and even more grateful for all of the friends and connections I made along the way. 

In all honesty, I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel going in with zero expectations and only knowing one person from my region. Had I known then how big of an impact the program would eventually have on me, all my hesitations would have vanished. I had heard such amazing things about CLTC and BBYO summer programs in general, but I wasn’t sure how much of what was shared with me would have been part of my experience. Everything I heard was true. I made some of my best friends in the entire world, gained leadership skills and a new perspective on BBYO as a whole, and stepped out of my comfort zone more times than I can count. 

Some of the best memories I have from CLTC this summer are dancing to Rihanna late at night under the stars, the most meaningful separates I have ever had, bus rides full of screaming Disney songs, boating to the other side of the lake with my newly made best friend, learning Hebrew and about life in Israel from my Israeli counselor, and participating in the most hype BBG cheer circles I had ever been a part of! 

CLTC made me realize how important being a leader is. During my time on the CLTC Shabbat Committee, I was tasked with planning the final Friday night Shabbat service. Through this experience, I worked with my peers to plan a final service that summed up our journey together. Putting the best 12 days into an hour-long service was difficult, to say the least, but it taught me how crucial it is for each and every person’s perspective to be shared, showcased, and included to represent our community as a whole. When it came time to lead the service, I felt pride in seeing the connections we made represented through our locked arms and collective singing of the song that united us–“Fire and Rain” by James Taylor.  

So, if you’re thinking about going to CLTC this summer, DO IT! The CLTC community alone is why you should go. Everyone there is just as dedicated to BBYO as you and the Jewish geography is truly a magical thing. Not only are the friends you will make amazing, but the counselors, coordinators, and leadership team will make your summer even better. To the friends I made on CLTC 2 this past summer, I always thought I’d see you again!