Connor Smillie - LLC 2023

Connor Smillie
Mona Shores High School, Muskegon Rotary Club
 

2023 LLC Conferee of the Year

        

The Life Leadership Conference was very nice and one of my deepest and strongest moments for me when it comes to my life, not as just a Rotary Interactor, but as a person with their own values and interests. The speakers had a deep impact on me, the food was very delightful, and the walks were very quick and easy, I felt safe throughout the entire campus and felt welcomed by every staff member there (especially Mason; he needs his own family ASAP). As a whole LLC was awesome and I want to send as many future leaders from my school there as possible.

 

The Dangerous Parallel world affairs conflict simulation and speaker Howard Osterling were amazing. Dangerous Parallel made me feel frustrated but, in a way, I wanted to fix something and be part of that. On the other hand Howard was just such a sweet man. He made me cry because he was such a relatable person even though I'm 67 years younger. I would also like to add that getting a new perspective from beyond the Americas with Zach Noling’s message on the world and how it isn't just Democracy and ultra freedom that works for nations, and instead some nations work better in other ways, like China and others.. Then, listening to Landon Fortenberry who is going into diplomatic service really persuaded me to go towards that field more and to learn about why nations do what they do considering their history and geography.

           

LLC was great, but the dorm bed mattresses hurt my back. I also believe that there should be more time for Interactors to tell what they've done and for everyone to pitch in ideas for leadership and change making.

  

As for the Conferee of the Year honor bestowed on me, I don't know how I fully feel about this besides being amazed. I don't believe I grew the most out of all the conferees there just on being a leader, but according to them I am worthy. This just has been on my mind a lot.  I am proud to be acknowledged for this, but I also feel I do not deserve this, maybe a more mature me in a few years but as of now, I am in awe.

 

 All I can really say for how LLC has impacted me is just watch me. I want to surprise the world. I feel more humbled in a way meeting people who have seen more, done more, fought through more, and are more notable. This really gave me a perspective how I need to go chase what my message and story to the world will be.