Whether a First Year or a Returner...

On the opening day of the YMCA Youth Conference of National Affairs, many first-year delegates shared in completely different and enjoyable experiences. Whether in the Robert E. Lee Hall or in the green rocking chairs around the facility, delegates showed their eagerness and excitement to meet their fellow delegates. For many first-year delegates this atmosphere was overwhelmingly friendly. Many delegates, such as Austin for the Missouri delegation, stated that they found it interesting now people came on to their buses to introduce themselves. They also found it very welcoming when delegates even carried luggage to their room for them. Along with enjoying immediate immersion of social activity, delegates from differing climates reported that the view of Black Mountain initially caught their attention. Many first-year delegates reported that they enjoyed just rocking back and forth while staring into the sky and admiring the natural beauty of the mountain.
Bartering captivated new delegates. This concept of trading representations of different regions fascinated first-year delegates. Some delegates eagerly worked to obtain pins from all over the country. Sarah, a first-year delegate from Texas, stated that the “trading of the different items allowed [her] to overcome [her] shyness and reach out to her peers”. The first day of CONA started a journey for many first-time delegates that leave these delegates excited for what else is to come.
In contrast, returning delegates found they could turn their first year fears into anticipation after being away from the mountain for a year. With a year or two of experience under their belts, the returning delegates felt more prepared to present and debate their proposals. Some were even excited to take a first year delegates under their wings to show them the CONA ways. Also, returning delegates felt that when they were first-years, they did not quite understand what to expect at the conference, but now, with their experience, they know more of the means and ways of CONA. Joe, a second-year delegate from Louisiana, sated he hoped that this year’s conference could “live up to” last year’s conference. On a different note, Lindsay, a second- year from the Florida delegation, said that she did not wish to “compare the two years because [she] wants to live this experience for itself. Although they all had amazing experiences, they are looking forward to gain more memories at this year’s conference.
Even though first-year delegates and returning delegates came to the conference with different expectations, in the end, they all come across the country to partake and enjoy the same festivities.