Results from a Survey of 2009 SEP Participants

The hash marks following and below the statements indicate how many respondents (out of 143) responded with that comment in an open-ended survey question.

Personal Growth

More comfortable with me, be myself /////////////////////////////////////////
Curiosity////
OK to be away from comfort zone//////
Deal with/interact with diverse people//////////////
Independence/////
Increased self confidence //////////////////////////////////////////
Increased self esteem//////////
Open minded//
Creativity////////
Love of learning///

Relationships/Social

accepted for exactly who I was ////////////
friends///////////////////////////
lifelong friendships///////////////////
as a "nerd" (or smart/gifted) I was not alone, not odd. /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Made me more outgoing,////////////////////////
Developed social skills////////////////////////////

Environment

inviting, supportive and encouraging////////////////////////
acceptance//////
freeing/
safe