It's hard to estimate how much HOBY will affect your life until you've experienced it. 

            Late last spring, I spent four days at West Virginia State University with myriad other driven and determined sophomores in the state. Though we came from different schools, and excelled in different subjects and activities, we grew to a family-like closeness.

            During the day, we listened to influential keynote speakers and participated in question-and-answer boards on topics such as The Media, Coal Mining in West Virginia, Safety and Security in our schools.

            In the evenings, we had a chance to relax and make lasting friendships during dances and HOBY theater.

            The very best thing about my HOBY experience was the feeling it instilled in me: I learned from HOBY that I can make a difference in my community and my world. I can succeed in anything I put my mind to.

                -- Taylor Ann Landrie