Australia 2006: Lessons in Leadership

A Report from the Student Leadership Conference in Melbourne

02/06/2006

In January 2006, two students from NCGS member schools were selected to attend the Student Leadership Conference presented by The Alliance of Girls' Schools Australasia. Bridget C. of The Agnes Irwin School and Janine D. of The Archer School joined some 130 student delegates from Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore for the conference in Melbourne. Here is their report:

The Student Leadership Conference of 2006 in Australia was an experience of a life-time for us. As the two delegates chosen from the United States, the trip began when we met in the Los Angeles Airport the day before our departure to Australia. After enjoying a day together at the Archer School for Girls in Brentwood, we felt as if we'd known each other forever, and we were more than ready to start our trip together that night.

Athough we were tired from the fifteen hour trip, we landed in Melbourne, and our excitement to meet our homestays and begin our trip surpassed the fatigue. For the next four days, we had the opportunity to stay apart at different homes and see the city of Melbourne with Australian teenagers.

In comparison to Los Angeles and Philadelphia, the city's condition and upkeep seemed flawless. From the shops to the tram stations, the casual and friendly atmosphere was relieving to us, especially being foreigners. The weather was beautiful, allowing us to enjoy the clean beaches from the other side of the Pacific. Fortunately, we had the opportunity to enjoy Australian hospitality at its greatest. The food, comfort, and overall welcoming we received from our homestays nevertheless made us feel right at home.

Immersed in Culture

We were also immersed into the culture by trying Australian novelties such as Vegemite and Tim-Tams. However, we noticed that the racial diversity within the city of Melbourne was strikingly different than many US cities, such as the prominent influence of Latinos in LA, and African-Americans in Philadelphia. While we loved the city, the importance of American diversity was reinforced.

Being thousands of miles away from home, we never forgot who we were. After hearing our accents, we were immediately identified as Americans, both for the good and the bad. Most teenagers thought of America and pictured Hollywood, as much of American music, television and movies are prominent in Australia. However, recent political actions have restricted a positive American reputation.

For example, after one young man heard our accents, he turned around and declared that all Americans are "greedy, inconsiderate and ignorant". Many people also asked about our religious affiliations, because the common view of America is one of conservative Christianity. Although quite taken aback from this view, we realized it made sense to draw this conclusion due to the dominant number of conservatives in our government today, and the conservative ideals they are pursuing.

While generally well received, it was important for us to experience the mixed opinions about the United States. Being only two Americans in 130 other girls, we effectively worked together to represent both sides of the United States in a respectful way.

Learning from Differences

In the beginning of the conference, we were divided into cohorts of 15 to 20 girls in attempts to create a more intimate learning environment. In these groups, we discussed techniques and problems within leadership at their school. It was interesting to us to see the difference between American and Australian schools, in terms of academics and uniform. The courses offered seemed to be the most striking difference, like the focus of American History in the US and less focus on Australian history in Australia. Even the world languages offered were different! The uniforms they wore were much more conservative, and peers, we learned, are expected to regulate each other's uniforms.

Through the lectures, activities, and adventure sessions, we both learned a lot about ourselves, and our own leadership skills. We also developed techniques and gathered tips on how to strengthen our influence as leaders. By the end of the conference, we were both inspired to return to our schools to reform their weaknesses and embellish their strengthens. Together, we expect to have our newfound abilities and contacts be applied to our communities and future projects.