OJCL Torch Winter 2016-2017 | Page 28

Over the summer of 2016, hundreds of Latin-obsessed teens made their way to Indiana University in Bloomington to participate in a 6-day convention of a whirlwind of classical fun. There were countless things to do: certamen, tests, General Assemblies, spirit, Ludi, and Olympika (sports), dances, colloquia sessions, and so much more!

Many people often ask me why someone would go to the national convention, because there is already a state convention that happens earlier in the year. I found myself asking this near the end of my freshman year, and I decided to try it one year and see if I liked it, and I didn't just like it, I loved it. Nationals was something I never experienced before: it was state on steroids. For one thing, it's much longer than state convention and since it happens in the summer, you don't have to worry about doing all of your homework when you get back home on Sunday evening. At national convention, everything is bigger and there is so much more to do. There are many more tests to take, dances to go to, a larger bazaar, service oportunities to take part in, and just a larger chance overall to have fun and meet more people from all over the United States who are passionate about the same thing you are: Latin! If you ever have the chance to go to a national Latin convention, I highly recommend going. It is something very special to be a part of!

National Convention and Why You Should Go This Year

Ellie Kammerer, McAuley

28 OJCL TORCH: Convention Winter MMXVII https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjB6MPV-L3RAhVMNiYKHUL8A4EQjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmagistrabush.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F09%2F23%2Fjcl-t-shirt-contest%2F&psig=AFQjCNHBUl5DxFMgey96R-DH1Oh37W6Q0A&ust=1484356401987376