The following student report was submitted by Ambassador League Agent Grace H. during the 2008-2009 League.
Mission: Tactics - SSI Experience
When I first found out I had to go to SSI, I was not very happy. To me it was another week of my precious summer gone to that terrible thing called school. Finding that there was no other option or way to weasel out, I decided to just get it over with. I assumed I could survive everything but the speech at the end of the week. As the week started I found it really was not as awful as I thought it would be, and I was enjoying myself. All of the speakers were such godly people with a huge passion to serve Christ. I loved the lectures (especially Mr. Mailand's). They pushed me to look above and beyond my normal everyday thoughts and to the truth of God's word.
Since it was my first time at SSI, I was a Representative. The program was a great set up to not only bring more awareness and knowledge of our governmental system, but it teaches you how to deal diplomatically with those you may not agree with. The caucus meetings stretched me to understand other people's view on issues and I learned there can be more than one right path according to each person's convictions. Those meetings also forced us to work as a team. Not until the end did I realize that we needed each member of our caucus to make the progress that we did.
One of the most enjoyable experiences for me was the committee meetings. They were interesting and exciting. I loved being able to drill the lobbyists with questions.
When Friday came along I was definitely not looking forward to the speech! As the floor was in session I started to relax and become more comfortable. Both of my speeches had flaws, but at least I didn't die. The week went very quickly and I enjoyed it immensely, but I must admit that the thing I looked forward to the most each day was playing soccer or ultimate frisbee during free time.
Another amazing thing about SSI is how the focus is 100% on God. Every staff member, volunteer and speaker radiated the presence of God. Each lesson and talk always came back to God and His sovereignty. Worship was always as if we were actually in the courts of heaven praising our Maker and Sustainer. SSI is a place where God dwells.
My experience at SSI was great. I learned about how much work it is to be involved in politics, but also how important it is. Although I started out with a bad attitude, I am sure glad I went. Thank you to all those who work to put it on and I pray that God blesses you and SSI abundantly.
