If you search for "International Convention" or "IC" on Google, you'll find it described as "the largest international gathering of Jewish teen leaders and the second-largest Jewish communal event in North America." But it’s so much more than that.

This past year, I had the incredible opportunity to attend my first IC in Orlando, Florida. As I stepped off the plane from Chicago, my regional friends reassured me that I wouldn't regret this experience. While many reflect on the well-known highlights, I want to focus on the small moments I can vividly remember even a year later.

Walking through the airport, I was thrilled to do my first @bbyoinsider takeover. Countless people approached me to be featured, and I was amazed at how many continued to recognize me throughout the weekend. The Jewish Geography was astonishing, even in a space filled with over 4,000 teens! Later, my roommate and I explored the seemingly endless hotel, left speechless by the history held within its walls. From the BBYO history exhibit to displays honoring past international board members, BBYO boasts a legacy that we can all take pride in and past historical documents that continue to shock me.

One of the many perks of IC is the incredible talent showcased by the teens. That Thursday night, we were fortunate enough to connect through a concert featuring Flo Rida, followed by performances from Ross Lynch, Two Friends, and numerous other talented artists. There was so much to do at IC—music labs, letter-writing stations, and the BBG lounge, which featured the rituals that make up our organization. However, the most meaningful aspect for me was the people I met along the way. No matter where I went or what I did, there was always a smiling face nearby. There was always someone who not only matched my energy but also shared my passion for the organization. I had the chance to play guitar and sing with girls from other states, participating in BBG traditions passed down through generations.

I remember walking through the beautifully decorated hotel halls on the way to dinner and turning to one of my new Spanish friends, saying, "Everyone here is like me. Every turn I take, there's someone who shares my experiences—everyone is Jewish here." These girls went on to introduce me to their friends from California, demonstrating how amazing the Jewish connections are. As the weekend came to a close, I was devastated to leave all my new friends—my roommates who lived a thousand miles away. I couldn’t believe that less than five days ago, I had been feeling anxious about not knowing anyone. It had been a weekend filled with firsts: from rapping my first Tefillin and feeling like I had made a direct connection to G-d to dancing with people from other countries, all in an environment where I didn't have to feel scared—scared of being Jewish, scared of showing my true self, or dancing like no one was watching.

While IC's textbook definition may be one of the largest Jewish teen gatherings in the world, it’s the little moments that truly make it special. If you're attending IC this year, let those small moments come to you. Stop, look around, and savor it—it's truly an experience of a lifetime.