by Alessandra Simeone
RNY high school rowers Giana, Justin, and Juan joined our Young Executives Board (YEB) members Tuesday night for a Q&A panel in which YEB members learned about our students and vice versa!
Giana, Justin, and Juan spoke to the benefits of rowing and what they’ve gained from joining Row New York, highlighting confidence, goal setting, friendship, and help with academics and financial aid. Juan has especially enjoyed the opportunity to practice and perfect his English (and in turn, teach his teammates Spanish). The YEB members then asked RNYers where they see themselves in five years. Giana noted her desire to be a neurosurgeon and study at Princeton University, Justin hoped to be in a college in the South to explore a different area, and Juan proudly remarked his interest in being a YEB member himself!
Then our students turned the spotlight on our YEB members. Juan, who’s very interested in competing at the collegiate level, asked about rowing in college. One YEB member spoked fondly to the first day of practice and the lifelong friendships he gained from his crew team. Giana then asked what it takes to be successful and one YEB member happily responded, letting Giana know that she already answered her own question by joining Row New York and being committed to her goals.
As questions passed back and forth between the two groups, admiration, understanding, and a genuine connection was made between our YEB members and our student-athletes, who will hopefully give back and be a part of our young professionals group in time. Thank you to our YEB members and student-athletes for sharing their advice and knowledge with each other!
