Mia Gonzalez, RYLA 2024, Roseland Collegiate Prep

What did you think RYLA would be like when you signed up?

When I first heard of RYLA I wasn’t interested at all. It seemed way out of my comfort zone but when I heard no one was gonna go at all for this once in a lifetime trip I felt like I should at least give it a shot especially if it was going to help me academically. So I signed up thinking it was just gonna be a camp where you listen to people talk about how you should figure out what you want in the future and how you should apply to scholarships and colleges.

How would you describe RYLA to someone?

RYLA is a summer camp where you can be yourself without the fear of judgement. It is a place where you can create and build a family with a bunch of strangers. It is a place where you will learn to love and accept yourself as who you are. It is a place where you can feel safe and wanted. RYLA is a Summer camp that will forever be apart of you whether you think so, or not.

What was your favorite part of RYLA?

My favorite part of RYLA was that there was never a time where I didn’t feel heard or wanted. That in every discussion my idea was considered. But also the food...

Gael Zetino, RYLA 2024, Windsor High School

What did you think RYLA would be like when you signed up?

I’ve never gone to a summer camp before, but from what I heard, camp RYLA was a leadership camp so I thought that it would be more strict. I also didn’t think that we would be delving deep in our emotions, I thought that we would be volunteering to take the lead on projects rather than forming so many connections.

How would you describe RYLA to someone?

I would say that RYLA is a place of transformation where you connect with a bunch of strangers on a deep level and end up having the best week of your life. It’s full of counselors that really care, and activities to strengthen your bonds and guide you in your future choices.

What was your favorite part of RYLA?

My favorite part of RYLA was probably the campfires. They were a fun way to end the day and destress from everything beforehand. The song competitions were a good way to work with others while keeping a high spirit. Other campfire games had similar effects and the talent show was a great opportunity to make an impact on the others.