11. Lanyardsâ
When you think of a BBYO lanyard youâre probably thinking of a tag that says your name and your chapter. But waitâŚ. IC lanyards are always something special because you can get a TON of tags such as, an AEPI tag, a region tag, and a grade tag!
10. Shuk
Did someone say shuk?!?!?! Who doesnât like buying BBYO apparel? I know I like BBYO apparel, and shuk especially at IC is the hot spot for some fan favorite items such as, AZA and BBG hats. Shuk also has items from regions and international communities around the order, and you can donate to the ISF!
9. Pre Summitsâ
When February comes around everyone is always dying for IC to come, so why not get there a day before and see your friends while learning about something that youâre passionate about? There are many IC pre summits to choose from including, Brand Marketing, BBYO Sings, BBYO Stand UP, and MORE! So what are you waiting for?!?!?! Go to a pre summit!
8. International Board Elections
The international board plays a key role in BBYOâs success, thatâs why electing these positions made the number seven spot on my list! Although, elections may seem boring because unless youâre running, youâre sitting in a chair with a clicker for a few hours with only a break for lunch, it is a key element in our orders success. Plus the food is good!
7. IC Steering
IC Steering plays a HUGE role in making IC better than itâs ever been before through all the hard work they do. In addition, IC steering is also really fun especially if youâre planning a service (Every other committee is cool too!) because you get to inspire those around you by doing what you love.
6. Leads Dayâ
The hotel where IC is at is pretty nice, but you have to get out and explore the area around the hotel a little more, and you of course need fresh air. Thatâs where leads day falls into place! Before IC you get to request a few sessions for your leads day experience involving areas of interest like, sports and politics. Another thing, a large portion of leads day sessions are off campus! For example, at IC 2018 I got to go to the campus of the University of Central Florida!
5. Speakers
The speakers at IC are AMAZING! First, you could be talking to one of the most well-known internet celebrities in the world, then you could be talking to the US ambassador to Israel! Thatâs crazy because most people donât even get that kind of opportunity!
4. Making New Friends Across the Globe
Other than summer programs, IC is the best place to meet people all the way from Missouri to Ukraine. Iâm serious, you can meet people outside of your country! Isnât that insane?!?!? What teens have close friends outside of their country? I know I do! And, most importantly everyone at IC is really friendly!
3. Havdallah
Havdallah is truly something special. I remember my first IC I was expecting a normal Havdallah similar to my region, but I was wrong. IC Havdallah isnât just about putting your arms around your best friends and singing the traditional prayers, itâs about being with those you love and forming new friendships while Shabbat draws to a close. Furthermore, IC Havdalah inspired me to make services, and get more involved in the Jewish community.
2. The Concertâ
The concert by far is an AMAZING experience! You get to jump around to some crazy tunes by a few famous musicians! Get this, you know most of them! For example, IC has hosted Steve Aoki, Nelly, and more over the years! What a show!
1. Opening Ceremonies
Whatâs not to like about opening ceremonies? Opening ceremonies is the most hype thing Iâve ever seen in my entire life! For example, you have amazing speakers like Scott Rogowsky, who is the host for HQ Trivia, and you have a surprise performance for a popular music artist! Lastly, every region and international community is loud and proud for the entirety of the night.
Ian Roundtree is a passionate Aleph from Mid-America Region: St. Louis Council who enjoys playing the trombone and bass guitar.
All views expressed on content written for The Shofar represent the opinions and thoughts of the individual authors. The author biography represents the author at the time in which they were in BBYO.