Seminar FAQs

  • Where and when will the seminar be held?
    The seminar will take place at beautiful Marietta College in Marietta, OH from June 8–11, 2023.
  • When should I arrive, and when is the seminar over?
    Seminar participants may check in any time between 12:30pm and 1:30pm on Thursday, June 8, 2023. The seminar will conclude with Closing Ceremonies on Sunday, June 11 from 2:00pm to 3:00pm. You must be present for the entire seminar, including overnight.
  • Where should I go when I arrive?
    Park in the parking lot adjacent to Harrison and McCoy Halls, at 215 N 7th St, Marietta, OH 45750. HOBY volunteers in bright yellow and green t-shirts will help guide you to the parking lot, 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, you will be asked to undertake a community service project(s) involving at least 100 hours during the year following your seminar, to make a difference in your school, community, place of worship, or other environment where you see a need. The program also includes outstanding speakers, leadership activities, social events, and a special closing ceremony to which your family is invited.
  • What are the accommodations and meals like?
    Participants will be assigned to dorm rooms with two to three participants per room in dorms reserved exclusively for the seminar. Ambassadors will need to bring towels, bed linens (with blankets depending on weather) and necessary toiletries for four days and three nights. Everyone will receive nutritious breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks. The first meal that will be provided will be dinner on Thursday, so make sure you grab lunch before you arrive on site. In the Pre-Seminar Materials, please indicate any special dietary considerations, including vegetarianism, and we will accommodate you.
  • What if I need to take medication while I am at the seminar?
    Please provide information about your medication in Pre-Seminar Materials and read and comply with  the Policy for Use of Medication During a HOBY Event. Note that HOBY Volunteers will collect and securely store all medication for the duration of the seminar.
  • If necessary, how may I be contacted during the seminar?
    Parents, friends, and family members are discouraged from calling students during the seminar due to the disruption caused to panels and activities. In case of emergency, your parent(s) or guardian may call (740) 500-HOBY(4629). The seminar will be chaperoned by qualified adults who will be staying at the facility 24 hours a day.
  • Who pays for the seminar?
    Your school, parent, or sponsoring organization has paid a Registration Fee which covers a portion of your participation. All other costs have been generously provided by sponsors throughout our state, including businesses, foundations, individuals, and service organizations wishing to support leadership education.
  • What should I wear at the seminar?
    Dress is casual and comfortable but school-appropriate on Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, you will be provided with HOBY t-shirts to wear (and keep!). Students may bring a more stylish (but school-appropriate) outfit for the dance Saturday night. Dress for Sunday is business casual: collared shirts with optional tie, dress blouses, dress slacks, no jeans or shorts, etc.
  • What transportation arrangements have been made?
    We strongly encourage families to transport their ambassador to and from the seminar—having parents and guardians present for check-in on Thursday and closing ceremonies on Sunday greatly adds to the ambassador’s HOBY experience. If you have last minute transportation problems please notify the Director of Recruitment, Carly Chambers, at (740) 500-HOBY(4629) or [email protected].
  • 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 let your counselor know, and follow up with a call to Director of Recruitment Carly Chambers at (740) 500-HOBY(4629).
  • Who may I contact should I have additional questions?
    Additional questions or concerns should be directed to our Director of Recruitment, Carly Chambers, at [email protected] or (740) 500-HOBY(4629).