Summer may be over, but the memories made during the summer programming of the SUNY Cobleskill...
During the summer of 2024, students from the Farmingdale State College Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP) were gearing up for an unforgettable journey filled with excitement, challenge, and discovery. The summer program intended to push students out of their comfort zones, encouraging them to try new things and forge connections that would last a lifetime.
Each event was thoughtfully designed to provide a perfect blend of fun and learning. From the Family BBQ that kicked off the summer, to the thrilling iFly that nurtured their desire in the field of STEM.
The iFLY experience was a highlight that showcased the program's dedication to pushing students' boundaries. The students soared in the air chamber, propelled by the power of their own bodies. The students learned the invaluable lesson of overcoming fear and embracing the challenge.
Leadership and teamwork were at the forefront during the YMCA Overnight Conference. Students spent days learning and bonding with their peers, participating in workshops and group activities that fostered leadership, communication and collaboration. The conference was a pivotal moment for many, as they realized the importance of working together towards a common goal. The students competed in many team-building exercises that challenged them as individuals and a team. There were moments when they were really frustrated, cried and even wanted to give-up, but they persevered. They couldn’t see the end goal at times, which made it very difficult for them, but when they started working as a team and encouraging one-another, something miraculous happened! They were resilient and determined! Wow- what an amazing journey they had!
The outdoor adventures, like the Smith Point Archery and the WildPlay outing, offered a different kind of education. Students learned about focus, discipline, and the joy of physical activity. These experiences, though seemingly simple, were instrumental in shaping the students' mental resilience and determination. They had to learn patience, clearing the mind, learning to be supportive and finishing a goal.
What made this summer truly special was the inclusion of families in all the activities. The Liberty Partnerships Program understood the significance of family support and togetherness in a student's journey. The Family BBQ was not just a celebration of the program's commencement but also a platform for families to connect with each other and with the program's mentors and educators.
The Field Day at Belmont Lake State Park was the culmination of this summer of connection and growth. Students, along with their families and the Long Island Region Liberty Partnerships Programs from Adelphi and Suffolk County, engaged in friendly competitions, laughter, and shared moments of triumph. It was a VERY HOT day, but it was a day that summarized the essence of the program: fostering community, building character, and promoting a sense of belonging.
The Liberty Partnerships Program's summer program was more than just a series of activities; it was a transformative experience that pushed students to try new things, learn from them, and grow in ways they never imagined.
It was a summer based on connections, and those connections would undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift the program's participants as they embarked on new chapters of their lives.
