Hey guys! Just wanted to say thanks for such an a-mazing week! Each staff member, counselor, and EPLer made our week together unforgettable! I feel so lucky to have been able to participate in such a great program! EPL was an incredible experience in which we were given the tools and responsibility to develop our leadership skills. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from and work with such an intelligent and enthusiastic group of people (staff and students alike). Counselors: Thanks for everything! We all love you guys and really appreciate everything you did to make our time at Furman fantastic! It wouldn't have been the same without you!So...I know it's kinda late to do this, but I have to blog about Thursday and Friday because I just did not have time to blog during the end of the week and I don't want to forget any of it! Ok, Thursday was our trip to Columbia (fun!). It started out with an early morning on the bus (the bus by the way was super comfy)! On the way down we watched Mean Girls which was amazing, but I'm not gonna lie, I definitely took the opportunity to powernap when I found three (not two, but three!) empty seats. Once we got into Columbia we went to the SCETV station and took a tour of the freezing studio. Next we headed for a really tall (17th floor!) building to have a sandwich with State Superintendent of Schools Jim Rex. We talked about public education (one of our favorite topics) and he talked to us about leadership ("Be a jumper, not a hooker!")! After lunch we went to the statehouse to meet with Senator Joel Lourie who told an inspiring story about citizens who fought to pass an insurance bill benefiting kids with autism. Afterwards, we had a few minutes to take pictures (Cindy) and then took a tour of the statehouse. After our tour we met with Governor Sanford's Chief of Staff. We had a super fun debate with him over public education and vouchers (props to Shun for bringing that up...lol). Next we met with Mr. Simpkins who is pretty much brilliant and talked about some global issues. After a quick (but helpful) brainstorm session with Dr. Burkett, we had dinner at Yesterday’s (and sang “Happy Birthday” to Caitlin and Ms. G). We watched/sang with/danced to High School Musical (yeah Athena!) on the bus ride back to Furman which was super fun! Friday was definitely fantastic! We spent all morning trying to figure out the details of our projects with Dr. Culclasure, Ms. Berman, and Cat Stevens (timeline and budget!). In the afternoon we had our city council simulation and argued over HOT, sales tax, and low income housing developments. Afterwards, we went to the Greenville Drive game and had a great time dancing and watching the Drive lose to Charleston. It was super fun, however, I think the transportation to and from the game may have been my favorite part (yeah Luis, Athena, Miya, and Cindy)! Once we got back to the campus we had a toga/dance party! It was a-mazing!
It was an incredible week and I can’t wait to see everybody again in March!

just jealous

colin it's okay to admit that you're jealous of the 7 wins that the dogs have gotten against you, but y'all are catching up- a win is an improvement. i think i will also point out that in close to every single movie clip that we watched charleston was featured. did i see greenville? Never! so bam! quick shout out to my business partner jay who in combination with hannah and caitlin rocked our city council simulation. anyways i miss all of y'all, and can't wait til march
ballin
whit

ballin

Uhhh Whit...the Drive beat Charleston the day after the game we went to.

So bam.

Pictures

Here are a couple of pictures I just got off my camera.
I miss y'all!!

Caitlin <3

Apparently everything can be explained by competition....

Oh my god. I miss all of ya'll so much. No one here understands why I started yelling at the TV while watching a congresswoman use competition as an excuse to waste our tax money. (If you didn't see the story, you should look it up... it was about this military plane engine that didn't need to be developed) You guys, whether it is this blog or that facebook group, we need a place to be politically interested together.

-Ms. G

Back In Greensboro...

Hey Guys!

Well, I'm back to my plain life of slicing and preparing bagels, and I already miss EPL and all of you a lot! I wanted to thank everyone for making my week a very enjoyable and memorable experience. I had a wonderful time getting to know all of you; you are all very special in your own way and I'm glad we had the chance to meet and become friends! I was bummed that my scavenger hunt team (who was obviously the superior one) was not able to claim our first-place prize we deserved, but I guess you can't have your way all the time. The nightly dance parties we had were also awesome and were a great way to get to know you guys better. Here are some of the pictures off of my camera! We will definitely keep in touch over the school year because I miss you all a lot and March really is not that far away!

Love, Anna E

PS

I don't know why any of you would ever willingly be in my part of North Carolina, but don't hesitate to visit if you get lost and happen to pass through Greensboro. Remember, we have the country's biggest Harris Teeter!

ballin

Colin you can tell me that when the Drive beat Charleston this season!

Hey guys!

Hey everyone,

I've finally had time to settle down at home and unpack a little, and while doing so I realized what a great week that we all have had. I can't speak for everyone, but I bet most of us (definitely myself) have never been to a camp where the students, staff, and counselors came together in such a short amount of time. EPL was such a unique experience, and I am being completely honest when I say that it wouldn't have been anything near what it was if it weren't for every single counselor, staff member, and fellow EPL-er. Each of were so individual but yet we were all able to gel so quickly and that was only one of many many great things that happened this past week. From going downtown to interrogating Mark Sanford's Chief of Staff to the Drive Game where we saw Senator McCain (and a few almost home runs-Whit, I'm sorry but Greenville is more ballin' than Charleston), EPL was a fantastic experience. I'm excited about seeing y'all in March, and I know that whether it's getting into your top school, having a great service project, or making some more dance videos, I have no doubt that everyone of us will succeed this year and into the future when we are fully-emerged public leaders! Keep in touch, and anytime y'all are near Greenville let me know!

-Colin

Memories...

Hey guys! Wow, I really can't believe that EPL is already over! I haven't even been home a day, and already I want to go back to Furman. I just want to say that I had sooooo much fun with everyone. This past week was so much more amazing than I ever could have imagined. I learned so much about leadership and the parties were great! I'll never forget that last night.....anyway, I just wanted to say how much I really miss everyone already. Good luck with all of your service projects and keep in touch! I will do my best to get a facebook! All I can say is, if we're this generations leaders, everyone better watch out cuz we're awesome! And for all the counselors, I love you guys! You all were sooo great this week and I miss you guys so much!!! Peace y'all! (I spelled it right this time Cindy!)

-Alana

p.s.- Drew is so right....I totally miss the food too....and the sweet tea!!!

Barely 24 hrs later and I miss it!

Its barely been 24 hours since I've been off campus and I miss y'all already! I have never been anywhere that treated me with such respect and responsibility. The Riley Institute gave 22 high school seniors/juniors (I didn't forget u David even though u acted like a senior) the opportunity of a lifetime. All the student counselors (Quentin, Shun, Cindy, Elizabeth, Monica) were totally cool and completely nice even at 2 AM. And the other administrators (Brooke, Cat, Leigh, Dr. Gordon) gave me and experience that I will never forget. I was totally spoiled with food and responsibility and for a brief week, was given the opportunity to be a Furman student.

EPL was one of the most educating and inspiring weeks of my life. I was able to learn from some of South Carolina's best and brightest on what it takes to lead and inspire. The faculty at Furman are some of the most intelligent people I have ever had the honor of learning from, and it truly was an honor.

To the EPL class of '07, YOU GUYS ARE THE GREATEST! I will always remember each of you and I promise to play soulja boy at least once a day! You each have made a lasting impression on me and I can't wait to see everyone on Pi day (thanks Chong). Hopefully I can find some good sweet tea up north but I doubt it! I wish each of you the best of luck in your endeavours and I know you will all find success in whatever path you choose.

Keep in touch! I love you guys!

~Drew

I already miss y'all

the past week has been absolutely fantastic thanks to the great lectures, super-hot counselors, and all of you. i can't believe that it went by so fast, but i think that despite not being able to see i still maximized all my time (whether it was doing the superman or grilling Mr. Davis(props to everyone). i still don't understand why the y'all keep saying that the team lost(the Drive) the real team dominated and hit two home runs(not almost home runs, Colin). in case y'all haven't figured it out Charleston is the most ballin city in S.C. so y'all need to and experience it for yourselves.

keepin it real in chucktown,
whit

Week in review

Still reeling from the after-effects of about 3 hours of sleep, I'll try my best to blog on this amazing, incredible, and most of all ballin' experience. The Riley Institute, Furman University, and Knowledge Works have done an exceptional job of providing an opportunity for young students that will impact them tremendously. The counselors and staff have certainly spoiled all 22 EPL participants with food, activities, but most of all, respect. I've never been to a camp where dance parties can run til 2 a.m, and the counselors are still cool about everything the next day.

In addition, I couldn't have asked for a better group of students to spend my week with. All of them have been very respectful, outgoing, and fun(especially after 10 p.m.). I never, in my wildest dreams, could have anticipated this type of group at a summer leadership camp. But, after getting to know each one of you, I've concluded that all 21 of you guys are, in essence, "supermen/women". Emerging Public Leaders are individuals who possess initiative, determination, and courage. You all exhibit tremendous potential, and this experience has just enhanced the leadership skills that I can already see in each one of you.

Whether it's getting into your dream school or operating a successful service project, I wish all of you future success. This has truly been one of the best weeks of my life, and I will miss all of you. I can't wait to see everyone on Pi day(3-14, for those who don't attend a math/science school).

Cheers,
Chong

Back Home :(

Well I just got back home and I'm missing Furman like crazy! Last night was really awesome and thanks to LJ for teaching me Superman...finally!! Our last trip to the Bell Tower was very emotional...us in our togas walking around just begging the FuPo to come take us in (just kidding)...and I'm sure ringing the bell didn't help that either :P.

Oh and Cindy, the tp-ing of your dorm was our little way of saying how much we love you!...you just have to look hard to see that (lol).

I think Chong's award was the best and most deserved! We seriously thought he was sleeping with his eyes open!

But yea, today was really sad! I'm going to miss everybody so much but at least we get see each other in March! Can't wait for that! Oh and it wasn't awkward at all saying by to Alana like 60 billion times when we kept running into each other after the luncheon (lol). Btw, I am so not a stalker :P.

We all seriously need to keep in touch before March!!

Caitlin

Pictures

Yes, these images are representative of our incredible enlightening week at Furman University.
=^0^= You people are insane.

Anna Lynn

= ^_^ =

She's Leaving (for) Home...

So yesterday was an awesome way to end our full-day EPL experience. The workshops really helped me with organizing my thoughts about potential service projects, even though I still am unsure exactly *what* I'm going to do (I know it will focus on my school and "education" however). There are so many ways to make a difference. It's just a matter of choosing the right project. Kinda like choosing a college. :)

Our city council simulation had an entertaining Jerry Springer-ish appeal to it. Remind me NEVER to live in the city of Norwood. But as the mother to 15 kids and After School Program Director, I'm glad that nutty council passed our 1% sales tax. Mikaela and Mia, let's virtually high-five. You all were *great* allies!

The Greenville Drive baseball game was fun even though the team lost. We all got to meet Senator John McCain. Even though I'm not a Republican, who would pass up an opportunity to shake hands and take a photo with a US Senator and (maybe?) future president? It was cool that he was nice enough to talk to Anna and Drew's parents on the phone! Other than my brush with fame, I had so much fun jamming during the game with Anna E and Miya and in Cindy's "multicultural" car with Miya, Mia, and Luis. Our car definitely bounced the most.

The late-night toga party, Bell Tower trip, and Catchphrase were amazing, of course. Supamaaaaaaan!!!!!

Good luck with your projects, everyone! I'm going to miss you all!!!!! But that's what Facebook is for, right?

Athena

Last Chance to Party

Well guys it's the last night and this week has gone by faster than I expected. Honestly, I didn't think I would have as much fun as I did here. We had a great group of people who were all unique and important to the whole. I know we've had some fun every night this week, but I think tonight should be the best night yet. Apparently Mizz G likes my two step so I might have to break that out along with the Superman and obviously the super-soak, the wipe down, and the lean wit it. I gotta give a shout out to my man David. I couldn't have asked for a better roommate (letting me use your iron, waking me up when I slept through the wake-up call, always letting me have first shower, etc.), and you were also a very (and really the only) astute council member in today's simulation. The Drive game tonight will be awesome so let's go out there and have some fun because it's our last night together. This was a great experience for me and it was cool to meet people from so many different places and interact with them. Hopefully I made a good impression on all of you.

-Jay

Last Day

Well its the last full day but its all been great. Columbia was awesome, even if we disagreed with Mr. Tom Davis and his "voucher" policy. It was great to here from down to earth leaders in the South Carolina community like Senator Joe Lourie and Superintendent of Education Jim Rex.

The entire experience has been awesome! I couldn't have picked a better group of people to spend the week with and I'm going to miss all of you! Thanks for a great week. And to anyone considering EPL, YOU HAVE TO DO IT!

~Drew

Last Time

Well you guys this is it. Tonight will be the last superman, the last laugh as a group, the last moment our souls feel connected as one. You've all touched my soul. I never knew that in one week i could love you guys so much. I wish we could have been here for 2 weeks or more. Each and everyone of you are epescially amazing and I know that in whatever you decide to do it will be fantastic. Our projects will always be forever great, just like us. Let's just savor tonight for as long as we can. Everytime you here the superman song, thikn of us. Or the 2 Step Remix [esp. t-pain's part]. Or Shun's cheating games in just about everything. We have had such a great time together and thank you counselors for making this experience amazing. I'm truly grateful. Each of you hold something special in my heart. I love you and I'll see you in March. Be good. [Yeah, right! HAHA!]


Miya*

"Public schools are communist."
--Chief Staff Guy

[aka confused man with a robotic outlook on life]

Computer lab

I've just realized how much we EPLers have bonded in the Johns Hall Computer Lab. In here we've blogged, Facebooked, MySpaced, Youtubed, sung and danced to pop songs, laughed over funny videos, and negotiated "back room deals" for our political simulation this afternoon. Yay for our technologically-inclined generation.
-Athena

Fun and Change

It's Friday before lunch, and I have so loved this week with you guys. Like Miya, I started feeling sad at the thought of us all going our separate ways tomorrow. I have loved, loved, loved working with you guys. Please remember that all of us - staff and counselors - are here to support you in any way we can. Columbia was so much fun: you asked great questions, were polite and gracious and were great representatives for the Emerging Public Leaders program. Looking forward to the Drive game with you guys tonight!

Go EPLers!
- Leigh

Rapping Up

It feels like we all just got to know each other and now it is the last full day of the program. We have done a lot of fun things this week including Listening to a million lectures, playing games like mafia,and catch phrase, going downtown, and then going to Columbia and meeting Jim Rex, Joul Lourie, and Tom Davis. I am really going to miss all you guys. YOU ALL MAKE A BLACK GUY FEEL RIGHT AT HOME.




-David-

thoughts on the infamous EPLers

So, my first blog and I just want to say.... this week has taught me so much. I have learned that complete strangers can become really quick friends when dance parties are added. People surprise you with completely random outbursts of hilarity [Colin ;)]. I actually like community service.... I know, right? I didn't think service was all that important until this week. Also, I realize just how much I do care about the environment. Surprisingly, Mr. Wilkins's PowerPoint on the importance of Food Conservation was my favorite part of the week. Besides all that though, I am just so glad I got to chill at Furman for a week and form relationships with some very diverse people. Love y'all guys!
Hannah

Super Soaked!

So, this blog won't be long because I really need to work on my character for the simulation, but I just wanted to say that yesterday was a birthday I'll never forget. I loved my passionate discussions with Meredith and Miya. I wouldn't have thought I would have a lot in common with them, and it was awesome to discover we have almost identical views on vouchers. Even though I didn't get to dance AT ALL on my actual birthday, at least I didn't get thrown in the lake. Jay did pour some really smelly water on me, but he's still my favorite person for his amazing ability to two step.
Peace for now, guys!
-Ms. G

Coming to an end

This has been an amazing week for all 22 students. We have truly learned how to become leaders in this world of conflict and confusion. Yesterday was amazing. We got to debate with the chief of staff for the governor. I think we handled his very well. The ETV television station is an amazing place that helps to educated. I can not believe we all leave tomorrow. We have already had one to leave today.
Today we are having our own "little" city council meeting. I think it will be fun and go very well. After that, we are all going to the the Drive baseball game in Greenville. Hope to have a great day.

YOUR FRIEND
LJ

Last full day of EPL.. :(

Leave it to me to post my very first blog on the last full day of EPL...

I just wanted to say that this week has been absolutely incredible yall! The speakers have been inspirational and I have gotten so much out of EPL in every activity we have done and every lecture we have sat through this past week. I feel more confident as a leader and I cannot wait improve my community by implicating all that I have learned.

I have really enjoyed getting to know each and every one of yall and there are so many different amazing qualities that I love about each of you! It has been a pleasure spending every waking hour with you EPLers.. 20 hours a day! (because we only manage to sleep 4 hours at night). The dance parties until 2 am.. 10 fingers.. the pictures.. or just chillin on the halls.. its refreshing to meet such awesome people who know how to have a good time. Thanks for everything yall.. this week has been SO much fun and I wouldn't have changed it for the world!

I still can't believe that tomorrow will be our last day. I will miss each and every one of you incredibly.. sooo yall better listen to Drew! I better see every single one of you as Furman freshmen -- Class of 2012! :)

Until we meet again in March... good luck to each of you in your service projects and be sure to keep in touch. I LOVE YALL!!!!!

<3 Anh <3

Columbia

So Columbia was pretty fun...I had a really great time seeing all the houses of government and meeting important people that make South Carolina function. Whether we were having a sandwich with Jim Rex or disagreeing over school vouchers with Tom Davis, I think we all had a great time and it was definitely a great experience. I look forward to the simulation (our last major event), and I will miss everybody!

-Colin

The End of the Week Already ?!?!!!

It is so hard for me to believe that tomorrow if our last day of EPL! The week has flown by and it is so sad to think about saying goodbye tomorrow afternoon. I have come to the conclusion that the EPL experience is not something that you can exactly explain. As a Furman student and intern for the Riley Institute, I had repeatedly heard about what an amazing experience EPL was. But, it was not until I became a counselor and experienced this last week for myself that I began to fully understand how wonderful and how important the program really is. After spending the last few days with 22 amazing future leaders, awesome counselors, and wonderful Riley Institute staff, I am excited to see where the program will lead those who have been involved. Without a doubt, I have been inspired by all those who have been a part of EPL and I look forward to the great things to come!

-E

It's So Hard to Say Goodbye

I'm only 19, but sometimes I feel 39 because of the amount of things I'm doing this summer. This week of being an EPL Counselor has really inspired me in ways I didn't expect. These 22 students from all across the US have something to show and tell the world. Whether it's how to do the "Superman" or why they do/don't support school vouchers, everything about them is incredible. I've become so attached to these students that it brings tears to my eyes knowing I have to depart EPL in about 9 hours for other commitments.

Jordone, Drew, Alana, Anna Lynn, Anna E., Merideth, Anna G., Luis, Jay, Caitlin, LJ, Athena, Anh, David, Colin, Chong, Whit, Miya, Mikala, Mia, Alyssa, and Hannah...you all have reminded me what being young is all about. Yes, we learn and apply ourselves all day, but we can have fun and act crazy when the adults aren't around! Our world really needs us to step up, T-O-G-E-T-H-E-R, and we have done that this week. We no longer see our geographical, racial, gender, or educational barriers, but we are one unit, one group. Today we heard a story of how 3 mothers changed the course of insurance coverage in the state of South Carolina for their children with no money or no political experience. I can't wait to see what 22 courageous, passionate, brilliant, funny, and most important, conscious group of EPL students will do to change their communities in the coming months. EPL Class of 2007, Go forth and lead! "ZOOM"

-Quentin

finally finished

so today was my favorite day yet! i loved seeing columbia and meeting all of the government officials. plus, i finally finished harry potter on the bus haha
i feel a lot more prepared to go back to my town & make a difference. after hearing senator joel lourie's opportunities for teens in this area, i plan to contact my local representative & make my own experiences! thanks epl!
mikaela

First Furman Post!

Hello to all reading our blog!
Even though I have been tardy in posting on our blog, I have really enjoyed my Furman experience thus far. Our class is full of very fun, very interesting people and I'm very happy that we all share a common love of dancing!

Today I took my first visit to Columbia and I really enjoyed walking around downtown and seeing the State House. The design of the State House was amazing, and so was the sword inside the House of Representatives Chamber.

Yesterday, we listened to three environmental scientists who all had interesting perspectives on the world's future condition. One talked about the population and food crisis, and another talked about the environmental state of South Carolina. The ethics professor that visited us before the scientists was also a very engaging speaker and he included the entire class in the hypothetical ethical dilemmas.

The Furman campus is very beautiful and I have really enjoyed getting to spend time here. We did an awesome scavenger hunt across the entire campus two nights ago. My team was obviously dominant and we would have claimed first prize had it not been for some strange woman who pointed us in the wrong direction toward the football field.

Tomorrow we have our city council meeting, and no doubt a heated debate will break out. Our group has a special talent for the Socratic method of questioning, so it should be interesting!

<3

-Anna E.

Watch Out!

so today we really had an intense session on the educational quandary that our state has found itself in. we saw both sides of the issue, hearing from both Governor Sanford's Chief of Staff and Dr. Rex the Superintendent of Education. this truly proved to be an enlightening experience, and spurred many questions for both on how to fix the issue of education in our state. we'll see if we can rise from the ashes and soar just like the phoenix(obscure harry potter reference anyone). so yeah i'm looking forward to tomorrow and personalizing my project as well as having our city council meeting. D-4 represent!
peace
whit

Loooooong day

So today was the big trip to Columbia, SC! Here's my recap:

-Tour of ETV: TV stations are REALLY COLD!!!! The station reminds me of PBS in my home state of GA. Anyone else like the HairWorld competition they were showing in the lobby???

-Lunch with Superintendent Rex: He made insightful comments about the state of education in SC while we munched on sandwiches in the Nelson Mullins building. Remember everyone, "be a jumper, not a hooker!"

-State capitol: We met with State Sen. Lourie, Mr. Tom Davis (Chief of Staff for Gov. Sanford), and (my new hero!) Prof. John Simpkins. We also toured the Capitol building. I really appreciated our "conversations" with the officials. We subjected them to some tough questions, and they didn't totally break down. :) I especially love how passionate my fellow EPLers are about public education! Speaking as a future voter, I believe our legislators need to give us *specific*, innovative, and well-researched solutions for our system. Education is one issue that DEFINITELY inspires strong emotions from us young adults. It's too bad most elected officials across the nation can't give us the answers we seek.

-Brainstorm session @ Columbia College: Dr. Burkett seems pretty cool. The session was brief, but helpful.

-Bus trip: We watched Mean Girls, which I think sums up the cattiness of high school perfectly, and High School Musical, which is def my guilty pleasure.

Only 2 days left!

Athena

great birthday!

Thanks for a GREAT birthday!!

epl update!

Hey everybody!

It seems like everyone decided to blog during our break! This is my first time in the library really and it's really awesome!

I really enjoyed the lectures today but especially Dr. Worthen's. I never really put a lot of thought into the enviorment, but I really liked the way he presented it. Even though it was very broad, he approached it from a level which I found easier to appreciate and got me thinking from a more practical sense.

Today's etiquette lunch was pretty interesting. I don't think I'll ever master passing the rolls. And anyway, who decided all this etiquette stuff?? There must be some rules book out there where all of this ends up making sense! Lol.

Oh, I completely forgot to mention that scavenger hunt! WOW! I wouldn't have ever been able to navigate this campus (especially at night!!) if LJ hadn't been in my group! And finding a swan isn't as easy as it looks...because they can look just like buoys! (lol).

Caitlin

Putting things into perspective ...

I can't believe today is already Wednesday! I'll admit that I've totally lost track of time, but it seems like my last week at Furman (sad ... tear) is flying by! Even though I haven't gotten to hang out with the students in the evenings, getting to know everyone has been wonderful.

Yesterday was a remarkable experience -- seeing poverty first-hand and assisting with the beautification of a special-needs school really puts your own life into perspective. All day I found myself thinking about my extra clothes and books that could be donated to homeless shelters, and our group was touched by an offer by a man at the Greenville Rescue Mission to join their group for lunch.

Speaking of lunch, our meals have been amazing! I can't claim any part in the deliciousness, but Furman Catering treats us exceptionally well. Today's etiquette luncheon was no exception, and it was comforting to learn that I've been fairly well-mannered in formal situations for the past 21 years (although I'm afraid I'll never be able to kick the elbows-on-the-dining-table habit!).

Tonight our students get to hear a presentation by our talented Admissions Counselors, and I feel sure that this will be an excellent opportunity to ask questions of the people with all the answers.

Tata for now,
Monica

EPL 2007

Speaking with someone who has the same goals, aspirations and desires as yourself is a golden opportunity; today Nigel Robertson came to our luncheon to share a few words with us about his career as an anchor, his struggles, and accomplishments. After hearing him speak I was truly enlightened! Will write more later!

the sentence

EPL is the best summer camp ever because of the great lectures and super hott counselors Quentin, Elizabeth, Cindy, Monica, and Shun!

What we all know by now

Furman has taught us all many things from living in a dorm to becoming leaders. I first like to thank Cat, Brooke, Cindy, Monica, Leigh, Shun, "Q', and Elizabeth for everything they have done for us. They truly do not know how much they have helped us and how fun they are. Today was great. We learned about the earth to socializing correctly. The ethics of our world have truly change, but now we "EPLer's" can lead our world. I hope to survive the next few days(Just kidding)!!!!! Oh, I may have a new mom.HaHaHa

LJ

Wowzers!

Okay, so first I want to say that EPL is really fun. It defiantly exceeded all of my expectations and I am so amazed how much I like this diverse group. Want to give props to everyone for being so nice upon arrival and also for being REALLY smart!! Yay!

Highlights so far, verb style:
*Winning the Scavenger Hunt. With 30 minutes left over. chyeaaah
{{GROUP ONE: Mia, Jay, Whit, Jordan, and of course myself.}}
*Discussing some serious Harry Potter with EVERYONE. shouts to ms. G and athena for finishing it BEFORE arrival.
*"Youuuuu-ing" until 1 am for the past 3 nights. alright alright. DANCE PARTY.
*Playing never have I....I mean....uh WHAT DID YOU SAY LJ?
*Watching the waves that our spit made from the tall bridge in G-ville. Displaying our awesome public leader skills. ((Anna, Mia, and Athena))
*Teaching Drew how to shag :D
*Learning that basically all mannerisms I have while I eat are wrong. Grrrreat.
*Rehashing old cartoons with the group. Yeah, Doug was awesome.
*Getting a chance to talk to people with the same dreams and life goals as me.
*Running with Chong Chong cha chong chong chong.
*Laughing at Colin (captain obvious) when the photographer asked him to please remove the pencil from behind his ear...cough loser.
*Bellydancing with the pros- Cindylou and Hannah Shadfish!
*Chilling with my roomies Anna (or should i say MIA THERMOPOLIS!) and the real Mia!
*Experiencing actual lectures by actual professors and actually learning ALOT!
*Getting to know someone on a rival team across town. Shouts to my girl alyssa! big balla.
*Staying awake with Mikaela during a particular "amazon" lecture!
*Questioning Quintin about his comment during the night...."2:30. No forreal. 2:30!".."uhhh what are you talking about?"
*Teaching Elizabeth how to pop lock and drop it.
*"Mingling" with the S.S.er's. or should i say showing them up at dancing. yeahhh you know.
*EATING WAYYYYY TOOOO MUCHHHH. everysingle meal.

okay wow! and thats just the highlights.....

LOVE TO ALL!
and supasoak that fupo. ;-)

best post ever!!! haha just kidding

Hey ya'll! This is my very first post and I feel like I've been so lazy, but I'm posting now, so it's all good. I just wanted to say that this program has been totally amazing. I wasn't sure what to expect before I came, but so far, this week has been amazing! All the speakers have been really great, especially Dr. Ching because his lecture really got me thinking about my community service project. Also, to the counselors, ya'll totally rock! You guys have made this week so much more fun. And as for my fellow EPL-ers, you guys are so awesome! It's been so fun! Caitlin's an awesome roommate and Miya and Athena are the best suit makes! The bell tower gang, ya'll are tight! And girl talk is so much more fun with Drew and Luis. And I'll never forget the totally awesome dance parties. Anyway, this week has just made me so excited to get started on my project and I can't wait to see what everyone else does cuz you're all so great! Peace!

-Alana

Welcome to the Ville

...hope you guys are having a good time, maybe I can take you downtown, you know, show you the amazing waterfall...

Alright seriously, it's been a fun week so far, but I think today was my favorite day yet. Dr. Raber managed to keep me awake this morning with his discussion on ethics, in which he made the topic entertaining by presenting different scenarios and letting us suggest ways that we might deal with them. The etiquette luncheon was........interesting. But I'm sure it was good to prepare ourselves for our lunch discussion with Superintendent Rex tomorrow, even though I couldn't get a piece of bread to save my life. I really enjoyed our meeting with Nigel Robertson. He's my favorite local newscaster, and it was beneficial for me, because I'm considering a career in broadcast journalism, to hear how his career has developed and what kind of challenges he has faced. Well I'm about ready to go to the pizza dinner, even though it won't be New York style like the kind Drew brags about. But he's never even had banana pudding so what does he know...

YOOOOOOUUUUUUU crank dat soulja boy

-Jay - EYP(emerging YouTube phenom)

EPL!!!

So this is my first time blogging while I've been here but its really the first time I've been able to sit down. We've been doing so many things, everything from Ethics to etiquette to meeting Mayor Knox downtown, EPL HAS BEEN AWESOME! The people are great and just being at Furman is awesome.

Ok so that covers the work part of EPL but its not all work. We party it up at night with our dance parties and our sick Soulja Boy moves haha. And on a personal note, being from Pennsylvania, THE FOOD DOWN HERE IS AMAZING!!! LIKE WHO KNEW YOU COULD PUT BANANAS IN PUDDING!!!

But Ill have more tomorrow. EPL IS SICK!!

~Drew

WOW! So far this has been an a-mazing experience! This week has been crazy fun! We've been super busy with tons of classes, field trips, and dance parties! We've been going nonstop and I think we've become a close group. So basically Sunday was the intro day and we did some leadership stuff with Ms. Swartz. I was a lion and I think we pretty much owned the card tower competition (even though we didn't technically win). On Monday we had some lectures with Dr. Gordon and with Dr. Smith about government in the morning and then went on a field trip (yay!) to downtown Greenville. We went to the City Hall and met with Mayor Knox in a q&a session. Afterwards, we walked around, took pics, and ate dinner at Barley's (yum!) followed by ice cream cones at Spill the Beans. On Tuesday we had a lecture with Dr. Ching about poverty (and the Western world's dumb luck). After the lecture we went to United Way (to fail the poverty quiz) and went on a poverty tour. The tour was eye-opening and depressing; it was certainly a contrast to the lovely downtown shopping district and waterfall that we had learned so much about. After lunch we drove in our caravan to do some painting for the afterschool program (my glasses are still speckled)!!! Later that night we (Whit, Jay, Meredith, Jordone, and I) WON an amazing scavenger hunt (I now have an amazing watch)! Today (Wednesday) we had lectures with Dr. Raber about ethics (which was cool because it was interactive) and with Dr. Worthen, Mr. Wilkins, and Mr. Hagan about environmental issues (which was especially interesting to me since it relates to my project). Afterwards, we had etiquette for lunch (mmmmm) and took the group pic. Nighttime = dance party!
-mia

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZuI662T4ak

The Environment and How We Live Today

what you're reading now is my first blog ever, and like Colin i am also slightly nervous about whether there are abbreviations etc that i should use but here goes. i was really enlightened by the three environmental speakers we had today. honestly i hadn't really put much thought into global warming and the issues surrounding it, but the lecture today really opened my eyes as to how real it is. the video really represented Charleston which kept me rapt with attention, and i really enjoyed learning about how i need to actively change the environment myself and that it is not going to magically fix itself. this wasn't to bad-i might even do it again

peace
whit

now that i've figured out how to do this..

hey epl!
so i've never actually done a blog before, but i'd have to say this is ballling.. i shouldn't have waited so long!
but seriously- so far this week I have learned so much. the people are amazing(!) and I have learned something at everyone of the sessions even if it wasn't something I thought I would be interested in. my biggest education has been in southern speaking (apparently I have an accent?) & small towns. it is really kind of weird coming from cincinnati, ohio (which is a pretty big town) & hearing about a lot of the issues that are facing the smaller towns in south carolina. still, we have a ton in common.
my favorite thing so far was waiting yesterday. it felt great to know we were helping out! we have a rehabbing program at my high school, but I have never went before. i plan to work with that project once i'm home, now that I know how rewarding it is.
thanks for making everything so much fun y'all! (i guess being in the south is wearing off on me)
mikaela

harrypottering - v. used as a nondiscript verb

Already in our 4 days of Emerging Public Leaders, the EPL crew has significantly impacted the world with the creation of a new verb. Perhaps less apparent, however, are the future actions we'll perform with the knowledge we have been so generously granted. Though I admit today's lunch was pretty painful, I really think we'll need this skill later in life! Yes, one day we will take a course in college and blow the professor away with our boundless knowledge in the field of dining etiquette.....

The few moments we're not eating or reading Harry Potter have been really interesting as well. I wasn't expecting to love Mr. Ching's presentation yesterday on world poverty as much as I did. Perhaps it was because he threw in that little dab of Chinese history. Anyway, I'm really beginning to get excited about my service project as more and more ideas are thrown at me. Time to brainstorm!

-Anna Lynn

Furman EPL

Prior to this week, I really didn't know what to expect from the "EPL experience". I thought that it'd be just like any other camp. Well, it is, in the sense that you eat, sleep, and play on campus. But, what differentiates the Furman Emerging Public Leaders program from other camps is, in essence, the experience that you gain. This camp has exposed me to different opinions about public policy, ethics, and even environmental issues. I've been able to go on a firsthand tour of some of the worst areas of Greenville that resemble life in third-world countries. Overall, I've really enjoyed the experience thus far, and I'm glad I chose to spend a week of my summer here at Furman.

Chong

Today

This is the first time I've blogged so far. I don't know whether to feel nervous or excited. It's pretty cool, I've never been at a camp that did something like this. Either way, we had several great lectures today, but the one that probably stuck with me the most was Dr. Raber's lecture about ethics. I thought it was interesting because rather than talk about ethics (which often is conveyed as an abstract idea that is hard to define, inevitably leading to boring beating-around-the-bush rhetoric), Dr. Raber created an interactive approach. He posed various mock situations in which we discussed what ideas and methods we would use to solve conflicts. I especially appreciated the lecture because instead of feeding us his personal thoughts and beliefs, he simply put the ideas into our head and let us battle it out for ourselves. I'm looking forward to the rest of the week and blogging some more.

Colin

Oprah

Today, so far has been really okay. Luncheon was, well let's just say interesting. I think Alyssa was going to kill the woman providing lunch. Luis kept popping lemon juice everywhere. Anna E. couldn't get it right to save her life. I couldn't get anyone to bring me tea to save MY life. What a day! HAHA! Nigel Robertson came for a session. It was really great to talk to someone that's in the profession your interested in. I was so excited. Jordone was more than I, I know for a fact. We go take the group picture in about 4 minutes, which is going to be the best picture ever. I'm looking forward to taking a nap sometime soon. That would be amazing.

Miya*

Working with the Media

We just finished a lecture with Nigel Robertson, a news anchor at WYFF News. Well, actually, I don't think a "lecture" is the appropriate way to describe it. That's one of the great things about EPL--it's not always just a lecture. Today in particular, we had more of a discussion where we, the EPL-ers, were able to interact with our speaker and learn everything we wanted to know from majoring in journalism to traveling to secure that great story to waking up at 3 am to do a morning newscast. It was not only informative; it was exciting!

EPL is pretty much great...(except for that little incident with the scavenger hunt and the flying water balloons--which I will entirely blame on Cindy-Lou).

Alyssa
A-Rich

Inspiration

We all have life changing moments that impacts our heart in so many ways. Whether we stop and lend a helping hand at a local shelter that enables as well as empowers people to pursue an alternative life, or we organize a community awareness drive to educate our growing communities, we are making a difference one step at a time. Life is all about information, development, and a desire to reach out.

As leaders, you are practicing these key skills. No matter where you are from we will all face challenges within ourselves and our communities. Take every step you possibly can to envision a better future for your community.

Service is the key, and with more bright people such as you there is no doubt within my mind that we can not only build a better South Carolina, but also a stronger and peaceful international community.

--Shun

Reality Check

The waterfall is really great! But it doesn't wash out the reality of the Greenville community. We have big problems to deal with when 1 in 4 African Americans and Latinos live in poverty. And by the way, the poverty line is $20,650.00 for a family of four (Thanks Beth Templeton!). Over a quarter of Greenville adults age 25 years and older don't have a high school diploma. And let's not even talk about public housing, when we have 1300 families on a waiting list while we continue to build nice, upscale condominiums downtown.

It was quite an experience seeing the great philanthropic work happening at United Ministries and Triune Mercy Center, but I wonder if could we do more legislative and public policy work to deal with poverty in our community? Could we, the biggest and richest city in South Carolina afford to provide quality public transportation? I'm no elected official, but I understand community problems when I see them. Maybe the mist from the falls is making it hard from some elected officials to see the real problems...I mean opportunities to change Greenville for us all!

-Q (Quentin)

And by crunk, I mean capable and dedicated, of course.
:D

--Ms. G :)

Yesterday

I felt the lectures and experiences we had yesterday really impacted me. First, Dr. Ching gave an awesome lecture about the origins of poverty. Afterwards, we went to Greenville to see first-hand the effects of poverty on a community. At United Ministries, we learned about their organization and took a "Poverty Quiz." We were all embarrassed at how much we *didn't* know. For the record, I only got 10 out of 20 right. :p
Then my group toured 2 missions. It takes so much effort and dedication to run a mission. I don't know if I could do it.
After lunch, we helped repaint and clean the grounds around an old school which is now being used for a program for special needs and low-income kids. It was GREAT, even though I will never figure out an efficient way to paint a vent (????)
As one might chant, "Good job, good job; good job, good job; G -double O -J-J -O-B; good job, good job." hahaha :)
The Furman scavenger hunt basically killed me. Furman's campus seems much larger once you have to run from the Public Safety Station to the football field...or if you're trying to catch the FuPo!!!!

--Athena

Top Ten Things We've Learned (so far) at Furman

10) Souljah Boy
9) Unless you're Meredith, you look stupid when you dance. No one cares.
8) Don't dance without music. Ever. (Boo Luis!)
7) Sleep is not a necessity.
6) If Zheng Hu hadn't gotten beat, we'd all be Chinese.
5) Except for maybe Indiana Jones, Erik Ching is the hottest professor ever.
4) Your opinion of Harry Potter matters way more than your political affiliation
3) Don't chase the FuPo. They don't stop. Ever. (Yay Luis!)
2) Shun cheats at everything
1) If we're America's future leaders, our nation is in pretty crunk hands

-Ms. G

random post

Hey! I can't think of a title for this because it's completely random, so oh well.

Today was focused on poverty and it was a really great experience. Even though right now, my arms have yellow paint spot on them...but it was worth it!

What happened to the Bell Tower Peeps?!? I guess the Superman one took over...too bad I fell asleep while that was going on. But we definitely have to get the BTG back!

I can't think of anything else to write, except that
1.) Alana is the coolest roommate ever,
2.) Colin is going down for calling me out in Mafia...when he full on knew I wasn't! (lol)
3.) And Drew had better not throw me in the lake on Thursday!

EPL rocks!
Caitlin

My name is Luis.

WOOOOOO! EPL!Through the journey of my life I have met great people (every day I met someone new). I believe that every one that I have met has impacted the way I’ve become, who I am, and who I’ll continue to be.This week I have met 21 extraordinary people who will one day change their communities (soon) and eventually change the lives of many people possibly even the world. The reason for this is because we have vision. We know the potential that is stored within our hearts, the passion to do what is right and the determination to get that vision across.I believe in signs, I think that when 22 great leaders some quite, some outspoken, some leading in the front, some leading by example come together…… Everyone needs to watch out, cause were coming! And when we get to our goal completed… You will be truly amazed, because that’s not where it’s going to end.

Gandhi “Be the change you wish to see in the world”


-luis

Yay!

EPL has gotten off to a FANTASTIC start! Yesterday was so much fun: filled with great morning lectures, and then a trip DOWNTOWN!

We met with Mayor Knox White and even got to take a peek inside his office!!

Then we met with Nancy Whitworth who does the Economic Development of Greenville. We saw some awesome before and after pictures of what downtown was like and how it's changed.

Then we had some free time where we had the chance to meet some famous statues and even sample some of Mast General Store's tasty treats ;)

We had yummy pizza at Barleys and finished off the night with ice cream from our fav ice cream place, SPILL THE BEANS!

I'm having so much fun with these EPLers!! We're off to such a great start!!

Much love to my Zooom buddies,

DJ Goddess :) (aka Cindy)

Dance Party USA

So.... a huge welcome to all of you and a quick note to say that we are all thrilled to have you on campus. During the planning phases, sometimes it feels like this week may never come, and it's always so much fun when it arrives. I hope today was a fabulous day for you all, and I look forward to our painting session tomorrow. As for these new assigned Superman titles, I may have to sneak on to the hall one night - in disguise - and watch this all play out in style!

See ya in the a.m. - Cat

Club Superman and So Much More*

Okay so today Luis and I created Club Superman. Here's the positions for everyone.
Luis - Manager
Miya - Co-Manager
Cindy - DJ Goddess
Meredith - Dancer 1
Ms. G (Anna G.) - Dancer 2
Drew - The "You Gotta Know" Guy
Athena - Publicist
Mia - Hype Girl (dances in the middle of the floor)
Anna Lynn - Our Protector
Yes, we are really going to make this happen.

Today I got really close to Cindy. I love her. She's amazing. I really respect her and she has an awesome personality. That's my chick.

I know last night we "Supermaned" until 1am it was so much fun. We are the master of the superman. We also taught Drew about southern girls. I think he seriously going to marry a southern girl. He loves them, but why wouldn't he, we're awesome, DUH! hehe!

Today we worked with Dr. Liz Smith, which has been my favorite so far. The movie clip really kept it interesting. I also really liked lunch, not only was the food really good, but talking and finding out about other people's projects was really informing and amazing. We really are an amazing group of kids.

We also found out today that Drew is really smart. I think everyone was a little surprised, but he's my terrorist buddy and I didn't even know! Work Drew!

Well that's about it for today. I'll be back before the week's over. I'm so looking forward to tomorrow. Painting is going to be so much fun tomorrow. I can't wait.

Kick Rocks. Dueces!

Miya*

The problems we face

We all learned today that we have personal problems in our communities. Whether it is education or homelessness, we have to step up and solve the problem. We need to be the lions, foxes, and St. Bernards that we are and show our community we are true EPL's.


LJ (Lathrum)

The Bell Tower Gang says to not get a "Big Bob"

So far the new gang has formed, the Bell Tower Gang. We told Cindy she has an interview with the lake. Oh, well we all learned today not to have a "Big Bob" in your local gov't.

--LJ

EPL 2007: BALLIN'

EPL is GREAT so far. I've only been here for a day, and I've met some pretty amazing people. I think we've all introduced ourselves, hometowns, and schools about a million times, but that's ok. I think I finally have everyone's name right...maybe...

Yesterday, we found out what kind of leaders we were under different situations:

Aggressive, forceful, competitive lions (like me lol! Our group's flashcard tower *definitely* would have won if we hadn't been "challenged" by an earthquake :D)

Methodical, furtive, analytical foxes

Caring, adaptable, trusting St. Bernards

Our dorm rooms are pretty spiffy. We have a microwave and a fridge! And the bathroom is clean! And we only have to share it with the girls in the adjacent room (basically, it's not a "common" bathroom!)! And there's a piano in the parlor downstairs! Thank God my roommate Miya brought some food. I think I'll mooch off her supplies haha.

Our icebreaker activities were fun too. Let it be known that EPL '07 pioneered the First Night Dance Party!

-Athena

P.S. In the absence of photos, here's the most accurate representation of a typical EPLer (after some chips, Starbursts, and caffeine):

So far we have all been impressed with each of you at EPL. Each of you have abilities and skills beyond this world, and I look forward to seeing your leadership abilities enhance those around you.

Someway, whether or not you realize it or not, someone sees as an incredible leader. This week, use every opportunity to ensure that you can not only interact, but also that you can just be able to understand and communicate with those in the program.

We are all so close already---boy it’s going to be a great week!

Shun

Getting To Know You...

I'm so happy all of the EPL participants are finally on campus! We have 22 amazing, talented, unique individuals who I'm sure are going to astound us with their creativity and dedication this week and during the implementation phase of their projects. Today's session with the lovely Tobi Swartz is going on as I write, and I feel like the students already feel more comfortable with each other.

To the EPLers -- I guarantee that this week will FLY by, and you all will wish you never had to leave Furman. (And you don't if you just apply here for college!)

I'm off to ensure you all have a delicious dinner waiting for you -- happy posting!

~Monica (EPL Staff)

Y'all rock!

Okay guys, it's 5:05 p.m. We've had you on campus for less than 4 hours and I can tell already - Y'ALL ROCK! (This last statement was said with my best Southern accent.) Seriously, we are so excited to have you here and can't wait to get to know you better this week. You are clearly thoughtful leaders. And fun-loving (a necessary aspect of leadership here at The Riley Institute). I can see you will make a difference in your communities; we feel privileged to be part of that process.

Leigh

Hello!

Hi! Welcome to our blog for the Emerging Public Leaders Program 2007! Check back here throughout the week for postings from our star students as they *emerge* into outstanding young leaders!!

~Cindy