FAQs

What is the New Jersey HOBY seminar?

Available to high school sophomores across the state, NJ HOBY is a three-day leadership seminar jam-packed with engaging speakers, skill-building activities, community service opportunities and more.

NJ HOBY is not your average leadership conference. It's a life-changing weekend that empowers students to not only lead but thrive in their communities and schools - all while building friendships and professional connections to last a lifetime.

When and where does the seminar take place? Will students have to miss school?

The 2026 seminar will take place at The College of New Jersey in Ewing, NJ from Friday, June 12th to Sunday, June 14th. Usually our students will miss one Friday of school, but this is to ensure that your student gets the most out of the program and learns leadership skills to implement back into your community.

Why should we send someone through your program vs. other leadership programs?

HOBY is unique in that the seminar takes place over three days. The ambassadors will spend two nights away from home, and will have the opportunity to focus solely on leadership development for this time, versus other day programs.

Additionally, one of HOBY’s biggest focuses is on service. On the second day of seminar, our ambassadors participate in a service project that benefits the community, and many of our alumni have brought this passion for service back into their own communities.

What will our students do over the course of the weekend? Is there a schedule available?

NJ HOBY shapes its seminar around three areas: Leadership, Social Change and Sustainability.

Students will participate in a variety of leadership and skill-building activities over the course of the weekend. Each day will consists of speaker presentations, group activities and discussions.

 We will also share speaker details on on this site over the course of the year leading up to the seminar.

Where will students stay while at the NJ HOBY seminar?

NJ HOBY ambassadors will stay in The College of New Jersey dorm rooms. Most rooms are doubles (two beds) with one bathroom.

There are several staff members staying on the same wing/floors of the dorm areas, a The College of New Jersey Residential Staff member in the building, as well as campus security in the lobby of the building.

How do I register my student?

Schools or Independent Organizations can register students for NJ HOBY by visiting this link.

If you have additional questions or if you're having trouble registering your students, please email our Directors of Recruitment anytime.