Yes, there really is international networking. Hard to believe that they mean what they say, but I have experienced it and now have friends across the globe, who are not only great people but who are really doing great things and are truly inspiring. This past weekend I was able to attend Golden Key's International Summit that is held annually.
This particular weekend, the international convention was held in Phoenix, Arizona. I was surprised to find out that the conference was held at an incredibly nice resort in Scottsdale, AZ. The conference lasted three days with a mix of developmental workshops, informative meetings, service projects, award assemblies, showcases, fancy dinners, entertainment and social venues. It was a much greater experience than I had anticipated. I learned so much about the club, what we are trying to accomplish/the possibilities, and really came to appreciate what Golden Key is trying to create-a better world for everyone and the possibilities of doing so. Ironically, what I enjoyed most about the conferences and am most grateful for are the friendships I developed with so many great people from all around the world. I was able to discover what other universities are like, how educational systems work in other countries, what global issues are affecting people my age. I got to see how other students in golden key are really becoming active in their clubs and communities.
I now have connections to universities and friends in South Africa, Australia, Canada, and other places within the US. I have had a glimpse of the grandeur scheme of the club, and it has really filled me with excitement to know what this club is able to accomplish and how BYU can get more involved globally and really be apart of something bigger.
In many ways, it reminded me of other things I have been able to be apart of in my life or participate in. It reminded me from my childhood of fun activities I took part in during my elementary years like Odyssey of the Mind, Model United Nations, and other competitions. It also reminded me of youth conferences and other leadership conferences I enjoyed in High School. It really helped me understand why we go to such conventions; to receive a large amount of instruction in a short amount of time, to showcase the achievements we have achieved within the last year and become excited of doing more and better the next year, and to make fast friends with people who are like us--leaders, over-achievers, do-gooders, people with ambition and high standards, and overall good people. It nice to know that you have a network of people similar to you throughout the world who come from different backgrounds, religions, customs, and experiences but the all have something to offer and are really giving something to their communities to make the world a better place.
I felt uniquely special to feel apart of something so grand and hope that in the future many more members can go to regional and international summits to enjoy the same experiences I had.
