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Frequently Asked Questions

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  • Where will the seminar be held? The seminar will take place at John Carroll University.  Drop off will be at the Murphy Hall residence hall.  Searching “Murphy Hall John Carroll University” in your navigation aid will provide directions into campus directly to the dorm.
  • When will the seminar be held? Seminar participants may arrive any time between 7:30 – 8:45 a.m. on June 19. The seminar will begin with Ambassador Orientation at 9:00 a.m. and conclude with Closing Ceremonies on June 22nd at 12:00 p.m. You must be present for the entire seminar, including overnight.
  • Where should I go when I arrive? You may enter through the main gates at John Carroll University, and signage will direct you to the Murphy Hall drop-off. Once at the drop-off point outside of Murphy Hall, HOBY volunteers will greet you and check you in.
  • What kind of program is planned? During your HOBY Leadership Seminar, many dynamic leaders—all volunteers from the fields of business, education, government, and other professions—will address aspects of our changing world and the challenges future leaders will confront. The program will not promote any specific political party, religion, or way of thinking; but is designed to develop critical thinking skills by actively involving participants in discussions and informal debate. During the seminar, and after being equipped with the tools necessary, you will be asked to undertake a community service project (or projects) within your own community involving at least 100 hours of service during the year following your seminar. The purpose is to make a difference in your school, community, place of worship, or any other environment where you see a need.
  • What are the accommodations like? Participants will be assigned to Murphy Hall rooms with 2-4 participants per room/suite on floors reserved exclusively for the seminar. Participants should expect to bring bedding including pillows, blankets, and twin XL sheets as well as towels and toiletries to utilize in the community bathrooms. Everyone will receive nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. Our first meal together will be lunch so please eat breakfast prior to your arrival. In the Health and Safety section, please indicate any special dietary considerations, including allergies, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
  • What if I need to take medication while I am at the seminar? Please provide information about your medication in the Health and Safety section. Make sure to read and comply with the Policy for Use of Medication During a HOBY Event.
  • If necessary, how may I be contacted during the seminar? Parent(s)/guardian(s), friends, and family members are discouraged from calling participants during the seminar due to the disruption caused to panels and activities. In case of emergency, your parent(s) or guardian may call Keith Rocheck at 216-856-1377. The seminar will be chaperoned by adults who will be staying at the facility 24 hours a day.
  • What does the Registration Fee cover?  The Registration Fee covers housing, all meals and snacks, and all program materials. Transportation to and from the seminar is not provided.
  • What transportation arrangements have been made? You are responsible for your transportation to and from the seminar.
  • What should I wear at the seminar? Dress is casual throughout the weekend. Sunday is “dress-up.” You will be provided a HOBY t-shirt and there will be an announcement as to when you will wear the t-shirt during the weekend. Please note that all shorts and skirts should be approximately fingertip length, and midriffs may not be exposed.
  • What about religious services? Due to a variety of reasons, we are unable to provide religious services opportunities. However, we do respect any student that must observe their religious beliefs at certain times of day or on certain days. An interfaith prayer space will be made available in the main conference space.
  • What if I am unable to attend the seminar? If circumstances arise that prevent you from attending the entire seminar, including overnight, we would like to give another student the opportunity to attend. Please notify the HOBY contact at your school, and follow up with an email to A.J. Comer oh*********@***il.com.
  • Who should I contact if I have additional questions? Additional questions or concerns should be directed to the Leadership Seminar Co-Chairs: