Delegate Testimonials
World Affairs Seminar was a life changing experience for me. It is probably the most important single experience I’ve ever had. I still see the positive change it has in my life, and in other delegates. In an ideal world a lot more would get the chance to attend, but the world is what is. So we just have to keep starting where we are, using what we’ve got and doing what we can.
I was privileged to receive a scholarship to attend the WAS back in 1994. I attribute my experience there with developing some of the fundamental values that I adhere to. One of the most striking take-aways for me was when we sat through a presentation about a conflict that was not being covered in the media. We analyzed the “why” and I developed an understanding, from there, that we often receive curated information. I learned, from then on, to seek out as many sources of information as possible and get the WHOLE picture instead of what “someone” wants me to know. This has served me well in my personal, professional, as well as, my civic life. It has allowed me to have empathy & understanding for others who think differently to me. It has also instilled in me a desire to know as much about a subject as I can, so I can always recount and share as much of the truth as I am able. The Seminar has deeply touched my life. Although, I don’t remember the details of the presentations and discussions, I still hold on to the lessons I internalized to this day.
I got to meet people from all over the world and listen to some really great speeches. Most importantly, I made new friends that will always have my back and I will always have theirs! I recommend anyone who is given the opportunity to go, TAKES IT!
It was one of the best weeks of my life! I met so many amazing people and was inspired to pursue a degree in environment science. The claim that this seminar can change your life isn’t just a cliche; it’s true!
Dear WAS,
Thank you for filling my heart with love and renewed faith that incredible, inspiring people are truly everywhere… and for giving me friendships that make saying goodbye so hard.
It’s crazy how you can make so many memories in just one week!
The World Affairs Seminar was amazing and it was great to meet people from all kinds of different places! It gave me hope on our generation’s motives for change.
I attended this seminar back in 2007 and it changed my life forever. I was always apart of the Rotary family through my grand father who was a Rotarian here in the Bahamas. However, back in 2007 I was about to be a high school senior and the venture I experienced through this seminar were not only inspiring but also well needed. I met some of my best friends to this day and was able to share so many stories and memories with persons from all around the world. I would recommend this program to anyone and would support wherever needed.
As an AFS student I had the opportunity to attend the WAS in 1996. Nearly 15 years later, I want to thank you all for the very interesting days we’ve all spent there!
Thanks!
Sponsor Testimonials
While visiting a Rotary Club in Turks and Caicos, I mentioned that I was from Rotary District 6270. I was pleasantly surprised and proud when the Club’s leaders said that they knew about D6270 because of the World Affairs Seminar. Over the years they had regularly sent scholars to participate in the amazing programs.
This is such a great program. Every student that takes advantage of it [from our club] tells us it’s one of the highlights of their educational lives! Thanks again.
I began [our club’s] association with the WAS in 1997 and since then our club has sent 45 students. We are so very proud of the participants’ accomplishments over the years, for many have gone on to areas of life triggered by their wondrous experience. Many have retained lifetime friends because of it. For this, I thank all those responsible for the programs and the efforts to make such an experience possible.