GNA CAMPUS — As the Junior Leadership Northeast (JLN) class of 2023 wraps up their year of projects and community service, The GNA Insider wanted to give those interested in the program some words of wisdom. These GNA juniors have worked hard since August 2022 to make this the best year yet. Filled with non-profit organizations, new friends, and long-lasting memories, it’s safe to say they did just that!

The GNA Insider was lucky enough to talk to all four participants. Below, they offer their own individual opinions, advice, and inspiration for anyone who desires. 

Allie Brown

What inspired you to apply for this year’s Junior Leadership Northeast program? 

Seeing all the different groups from last year’s program make an impact on the community through their projects really inspired me to apply because I wanted to be able to make a difference and help people as well. I was also really interested in applying after I saw all the cool places that last years class got to visit. 

How would you describe this year’s interview process? 

This year’s interview process was definitely one of the more difficult things I’ve had to do. Not that it was long and hard, but the actual interview itself had some pretty challenging questions. 

What types of projects do you hope to see done this year? 

All of the projects are already set in stone, but I think one of my favorite ones this year has to be “Skating for Support,” which is hosting a roller skating fundraiser to raise money for the foster care system. Another of my favorite projects is “Wizards of Wonder,” which collects books and hosts events to read to kids in the community. 

Any words of advice for other students who may want to apply for this program in the coming years? 

My words of advice for anyone who is thinking of applying is to 100% do it. There are so many benefits of going through the program, from meeting tons of new professional people who can open up opportunities for you, to getting to make an impact on your community through your project. If you do apply and end up getting in, do not take this program for granted because it can open up so many doors for you, so be grateful for everything. 

Liskeilyn Caceres

What inspired you to apply for this year’s Junior Leadership Northeast program? 

The thing that inspired me the most to apply for this year’s program was definitely my eagerness to give back and help those struggling in my community. I also really wanted the opportunity to meet other young leaders like myself that also had that eagerness to want to give back to those around them. 

How would you describe this year’s interview process?

I would describe the interview process definitely as something that is very intimidating and nerve-racking because of all the competition. You are put in a room with people from your school and obviously want to sound good and get in but you also really want those around you to get the same opportunity. The interviewers were all very sweet and asked very interesting questions. 

What types of projects do you hope to see done this year? 

I hope to see projects that help teen moms because I do not think that it is something that has been done or has been given enough attention. I think that it would be so important to help young teen moms who are just like us by providing them with clothing, necessities, or even cool events to raise awareness. 

Any words of advice for other students who may want to apply for this program in the coming years? 

My advice to any other students who may want to apply is to do it and give it your all! This is definitely a really fun program that is worth it. It’s a great experience where you get to meet new people, socialize, go to new places, and just expand your knowledge. This program will definitely bring you out of your comfort zone and help you develop great skills for the future!!

Mackenzie Hall

What inspired you to apply for this year’s Junior Leadership Northeast program?

“Well, I first learned about the program through a presentation about it given by our 11th-grade English teacher Mr. Carey and I was looking for opportunities to expand upon my list of extracurriculars, so I decided to research it a bit. I loved the idea of giving back to the community so I thought, why not apply and see what happens?”

How would you describe this year’s interview process?

“To be honest, the interview was an extremely wonderful experience, especially considering it was actually my first ever professional interview. There were three or four women with experience in the program that interviewed us and made everything feel very relaxed and comfortable, not to mention we had ample time to construct an answer to the questions being asked of us. There was good back-and-forth feedback with the interviewers as well.”

What types of projects do you hope to see this year?

“I would say I love projects that think outside of the box. It is always wonderful to hear about any project that is giving back to those who are less fortunate, but it is those that do so in a more unconventional manner that really grabs my attention.”

Any words of advice for other students who may want to apply for this program in the coming years?

“To any future applicants, I say to take the program seriously, but please remember to make it enjoyable as well and let yourself have fun with it. Also, do not discount your project members—they can truly become such wonderful people in your life if you put in some minimal effort to stay in contact and communicate with them occasionally.”

Azariah Muhammad

What inspired you to apply for this year’s Junior leadership Northeast program?

I was interested in bonding with like-minded people over our passion for community service. I also wanted to capitalize on the opportunity to enhance my leadership skills. 

How would you describe this year’s interview process? 

This being my first interview ever, I was not sure what to expect at first. To my surprise, It was less stressful than I thought. Everyone there was friendly. 

What types of projects do you hope to see done this year?

I hope to see lots of awareness projects this year. It is always nice to see people bring awareness to causes that are often left in the dark. I want people to be able to gain knowledge about these causes and help others in their current situations. 

Any words of advice for other students who may want to apply to this program in the coming years? 

It is a great opportunity for high school juniors. If you’re worried about the application process, just be yourself. You will be surprised by what you can bring to the table that others can not. 

Thank you to all of the members for offering their time to answer The GNA Insider’s questions. Good luck in the next few months!