Deyaneirah “Dave” Surber is an 11th-grade student at George Washington High School, while Jakob Pillow is a junior at John F. Kennedy High School.
Hosted by the Council for Opportunity in Education, the National Student Leadership Congress annually brings together 100 high-achieving TRIO pre-college students from across the United States and its territories for an intensive curriculum focused on governance, advocacy, and personal development. Students explore the legislative process, civic advocacy, leadership and ethics, college preparation, and career exploration.

The opportunity inspired Pillow to apply for the program.

“I applied to the NSLC because I wanted to challenge myself and grow as a leader. I was excited to learn from experienced mentors and meet students from different backgrounds who shared similar goals and ambitions. I also wanted to gain new ideas and leadership skills that I could bring back to my high school and use to make a positive impact,” Pillow said.

For Surber, the experience provided a welcoming, supportive environment to share ideas with fellow student leaders and counselors.

“My experience attending NSLC was incredibly positive. Everyone was welcoming, and it was nothing like I expected. No one judged me for speaking up or sharing my opinions. If anything, they encouraged me to do so. This supportive atmosphere made me feel comfortable and confident in expressing my thoughts and ideas. I got more involved in activities and discussions, knowing that what I had to say actually mattered. It really helped me grow and develop personally,” Surber said.

Pillow said he took away valuable lessons from his peers and was encouraged by the number of young people passionate about making a positive difference in their communities and around the world. Hearing their stories and perspectives also inspired him to think more deeply about the kind of leader he wants to become.

“Throughout the program, I had the opportunity to participate in discussions, group activities, and leadership experiences that helped me step out of my comfort zone and grow as a person. By collaborating with other students, I learned that although we all come from different places and have different life experiences, we share many of the same values and goals,” Pillow said.

Surber said the experience also helped build her confidence in public speaking and encouraged her to engage with people from different backgrounds.
“Going through this program helped me build confidence in my public speaking. Before, I enjoyed talking, but only with people I already knew or felt comfortable around. This experience pushed me to step outside that comfort zone and communicate more openly,” Surber said.

Lovelynn Mongami, director of the University of Guam TRIO Educational Talent Search Program, said the National Student Leadership Congress gave the students an important opportunity to connect with other TRIO participants while developing their leadership skills.

“The Student Leadership Congress is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students to meet other TRIO student leaders, engage in government and public policy, and grow into future leaders in our community,” Mongami said.

The experience gave Surber and Pillow an opportunity to strengthen their leadership skills, broaden their perspectives, and build confidence as student advocates. Their participation reflects the role programs such as TRIO Educational Talent Search play in empowering Guam’s youth to pursue higher education, participate in civic life, and contribute meaningfully to their schools and communities