My experience in Istanbul can be described as priceless. Never did I expect to make so many friends and have so many memories. I didn't expect to learn this much about myself from getting to know other people. Through my conversations with my Chinese and Turkish friend I was amazed not by how different our lives were, but the similarity in them. Istanbul was a beautiful city, a meeting point between east and west, between old and new, but not a place where these elements clash but where they compliment each other. The diversity and the hospitality of the people are also worth mentioning. With all honesty, I can safely say this was one of the best weeks of my life! Thank you to YGA and Asli Abla for opening up her house to us!

Timur Ender, North Carolina State University

This has been a truly amazing experience! I learned so much about the culture, food, history etc. of Istanbul. I also discovered things about myself which is a very important part of the travel. I loved how the trip encompassed so many parts of Turkish culture like ancient buildings as well as modern art. I liked how our Turkish friends "shared" their city with us instead of just telling. Leadership Camp was fantastic. The speakers were inspiring and approachable at the same time. I feel ready to go home and take charge of my life, future and create the change.

Brittany Glarrow, Appalachian State University

This program has given me more than I expected. Not only have we been to those places of interest but we also got the chance to experience the Turkish culture deeply. Moreover I get to know lots of friends from Turkey. What made me more excited is that I had two lovely roommates around. We chatted a lot every night which in turn enriched our friendship. It is definitely an unforgettable experience. Leadership Camp speakers also inspired us from their own stories.

Robert Fang, Hong Kong Polytechnic University

I have been immersed in a different culture and as a result, I have had the privilege of discovering the heart of Turkish culture. This trip has opened my eyes to the mysterious culture of Istanbul and history has come alive for me. I have been able to establish mental and emotional connections with Istanbul which caused world history to "jump off the page". Leadership Camp lecturers were inspiring but also applicable. I appreciated the real life examples both about business and life. One of the key lessons I took from the program is the challenge to reach deeper into ourselves. The environment of Saklikoy was very unique-peaceful and stimulating.

Jessica Miner, Appalachian State University

I'm truly thankful for having this opportunity to participate in this program. It is a dream journey one can ever have in Istanbul. Some of the experiences I can really recall them once in a lifetime. It is wonderful to feel the Turkish hospitality and the food is amazing. I love that we can actually make the traditional art craft. Moreover, to sit in a local tea house where locals go was so nice! The experience, the people have made some sort of connection between the city and us. The connection is not going to end with the trip but will continue long after. Coming to Leadership Camp, the speakers were very practical and it was great to meet the dream partners who make their dreams come true.

Cynthia Wei, National Cheng-chi University of Taiwan