FAQ

Location

Where will Seminar be held?

The seminar will take place at Drake University, 2507 University Ave, Des Moines IA.

When will Seminar be held?

Seminar participants may arrive any time after 8:00 a.m. but before 9:00 am on June 7th, 2024. The seminar will begin with Ambassador Orientation on June 7th at 9:00 am and conclude with Closing Ceremonies on June 9th at 2:00 pm.  Closing ceremonies will end at approximately 3:00 pm and all students must be picked up by 3:30 pm.  You must be present for the entire seminar, including overnight.

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, and after being equipped with the tools necessary, you will be asked to undertake a community service project (or projects) within your own community involving at least 100 hours of service during the year following your seminar. The purpose is to make a difference in your school, community, place of worship, or any other environment where you see a need.

What does the Registration Fee cover?

The Registration Fee covers housing, all meals and snacks, and all program materials. Transportation to and from the seminar is not provided.

What are the accommodations like?

Participants will be assigned to dorm rooms with 2 participants per room on floors reserved exclusively for the seminar.  Students will need to bring their own bedding and toiletries (sheets, blankets, pillows, towels, etc).  Everyone will receive nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and dinners starting with lunch on Friday. In the Health and Safety section, please indicate any special dietary considerations, including allergies, and we will do our best to accommodate you.

Checklist

What should I pack?

Visit our Packing List page for full details.

What should I wear at the Seminar?

Dress is casual throughout the weekend. Sunday is “dress-up.” You will be provided a HOBY t-shirt and there will be an announcement as to when you will wear the t-shirt during the weekend.

What if I need to take medication while I am at the Seminar?

Please provide information about your medication in the Health and Safety section. Make sure to read and comply with the Policy for Use of Medication During a HOBY Event.

Will I need money?

There is a $25 room deposit due at the time of check-in that will be fully refunded to you at check-out. Iowa HOBY also offers a Seminar online yearbook for purchase at the end of the seminar for $25 and HOBY merchandise will be available in the HOBY Store throughout the weekend. With the exception of the room deposit, everything else is optional for purchase.

Transportation

What transportation arrangements have been made?

You are responsible for your transportation to and from the seminar.

What if I need to arrive on Thursday night?

We are pleased to offer an early arrival program for those students traveling from long distances. Check in for early arrival will be the evening before Seminar. There is a $40 fee to defray the cost of housing, activities, and staff supervision on Thursday evening and breakfast on Friday morning. Please note that an evening meal will not be provided on Thursday. Please contact Chris Poole at earlyarrival@iahoby.org with any questions regarding the early arrival program.

Where should I go when I arrive?

Enter the facility through Forest Ave and proceed to the parking lot at Forest Ave and 29th St.  A HOBY volunteer committee member will greet you and check you in at the residence halls across the street.

When can I tell my parent or guardian to pick me up?

Information on pick-up times for the Sunday of Seminar will be shared closer to the Seminar date.

Personal

If necessary, how may I be contacted during the Seminar?

Parent(s)/guardian(s), friends, and family members are discouraged from calling participants during the seminar due to the disruption caused to panels and activities. In case of emergency, your parent(s) or guardian may call Shana Smrcina 515-681-4219 or Dylan Keller 319-470-8507. The seminar will be chaperoned by adults who will be staying at the facility 24 hours a day.

What about Religious services?

Iowa HOBY will be hosting a non-denominational service on Sunday morning for any students interested in attending.

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 notify the HOBY contact at your school, and follow up with an email to Ali Watkins.  Ali.watkins@iahoby.org.

Who may I contact should I have additional questions?

Additional questions or concerns should be directed to Ali Watkins (ali.watkins@iahoby.org) or Shana Smrcina (lsc@iahoby.org).