The 2006 class of Front Line Leaders Academy fellows underwent an intense and life-changing experience. Eight months of concentrated campaign training in candidacy, campaign management, fundraising, communications, and field strategy culminated in a grand finale project that resulted in a new ambassador for both FLLA and Young People For.

Below, 2006 Fellows share their experiences:

“I think students should enter the program to learn first hand about campaigns and candidacy. I have been involved in campaigns before, but only as a volunteer door-knocker. You can't learn the intricacies that way. Students should also enter if they are considering running for office or running a campaign ever because the lessons learned are priceless and it can be overwhelming to a young person to enter the political realm without this formal training. I have more confidence than I once did and no longer am intimidated by the political game.” –Jenny Parker, Texas

“The FLLA program gave me 20 years worth of knowledge and growth condensed into eight months… wow!” –Stacey Tolos, Ohio

“FLLA has really helped me to focus on what I need to do to become a public servant. It has helped show me strengths and weaknesses that I have and how to work to build upon my strengths and reform my weaknesses.” –Ezra Temko, Delaware

“FLLA is one of the luckiest opportunities I ever discovered. If I run for office, I will have a professional network of young campaign experts and FLLA alum who I can lean on and draw support from. If I don’t run, I will pick another venue to contribute through and I will still have all that support. One thing is certain: FLLA is making a huge wave within the progressive movement and will make an even bigger mark on American Politics in our lifetimes. These people are going places.” –Michael Simmons, Illinois

“FLLA is boot camp for young, progressive politics. The relationships I developed here will be with me for the rest of my life.” –Jon Hoadley, South Dakota

“This program has given me the confidence to apply to work on campaigns and for non-profits, because I now have the skills. I am now a competitive applicant in a big pool of young people who want to influence change.” –Liz Fossett, Kentucky

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