International Convention
Get Ready for a Life-Changing Experience!
Severin Zindler is the 2004-05 International Vice President for Division II, representing Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi/Louisiana, Tennessee and the Texas Regions of Phi Theta Kappa. She is a biology and chemistry major at San Jacinto College-South in Houston, Texas. Contact Severin.
Attending a Phi Theta Kappa International Convention is an experience that cannot be put into words. It can change your life. I remember sitting in the auditorium at Phi Theta Kappa's International Convention in Anaheim, California, in April 2003 like it was yesterday. As a new member, I did not completely understand what Phi Theta Kappa was truly about. That was about to change.
When I sat in that auditorium, feeling the energy radiate from over 3,000 people, finally realizing throughout the presentations what Phi Theta Kappa truly encompasses, it was then I knew that I wanted to be a part of this amazing organization. I remember the corps of flags, the singing of the national anthems and the marching in of the state flags.
As a new member, the educational forums were of extreme importance to me. They introduced me to Phi Theta Kappa's programs and helped me develop my leadership skills. There are forums suited for everyone, from the just-inducted Phi Theta Kappa member to the Phi Theta Kappa veteran. Many cover chapter development such as fundraising, administrative support and Society programs. Others focus on personal development such as public speaking and interpersonal communication.
At each International Convention, newly-elected chapter officers have the opportunity to attend the Chapter Officer Academy, which is held one day prior to the Convention's start. Peter Strange, vice president of communications from San Jacinto College-South in Texas, describes his experience at the 2004 Officer Academy as "a growing experience. I took in a great deal of information and am more confident in my role as chapter officer."
But the International Convention is so much more than attending workshops and gaining information; it is about networking. "My most memorable experience would have to be meeting Phi Theta Kappa members from other states and picking their brains about things they do in their chapters," said Logan Collins, Historian for the Mississippi/Louisiana Region.
For Lesli Oaks, Central Vice President of the Kentucky Region, the most memorable aspect of the International Convention was "the bonding experience among the Phi Theta Kappa chapters and regions but also the bonding experience among the people." The International Convention gives members the chance to interact with one another and exchange best practices concerning subjects such as the Five Star Program's College Project, the Honors Study Topic and the International Service Program.
But that is by far not all the International Convention has to offer. The General Sessions, each one focusing on a Phi Theta Kappa Hallmark, broaden one's understanding of Phi Theta Kappa initiatives and programs through outstanding speakers. At the 2005 Convention, Rudy Giuliani - one of the most influential leaders of the 21st century - will deliver the Convention's keynote address and award-winning singer Patti LaBelle will inspire members to "Continue the Fight" against cancer.
Are you planning to transfer to a four-year college next fall? If your answer is yes, then the International Convention is your place to be. The Transfer College Fair is a "must" event for any member considering transferring to a senior institution! The four-year colleges and universities who will participate in the Transfer College Fair are totally committed to recruiting high-achieving two-year college transfer students. The Transfer College Fair is your personal opportunity to meet one-on-one with recruiters from universities who are offering thousands of dollars in transfer scholarships exclusively to Phi Theta Kappa members.
Don't miss the curtain call for next year's International Convention at the beautiful Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, on April 14-16, 2005. Stay updated on programming and registration information by visiting http://convention.ptk.org. See ya'll in Texas!!
