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Several USGA Fellows have written about
why they desired to participate in the USGA Fellowship program
and their experiences in the Fellowship to date. Below are
excerpts of the Fellows' comments, which will hopefully provide
more insight into the individual Fellows and the program in
general.
 Since
moving to Colorado Springs, I have learned more than I thought
possible, both personally and professionally. The opportunities
within the Fellowship are endless; it is simply a matter of
learning how to meld my goals with the possibilities available.
Moving to a new place, I did not expect to develop close friendships
quickly. Little did I know, the most unique and wonderful aspect
of the Fellowship is the people. Each Fellow comes from a different
background, and adds his or her individual strengths to the
group. I cannot imagine being anywhere else right now, and
I feel incredibly lucky to take part in this extraordinary
opportunity.
- Emily Kolbe, Class of 2007
One
lesson from our Teambuilding Experience in my first year of
the Fellowship has become my personal motto and goal: Never
lose the learning spirit. The USGA Fellowship in Leadership
and Service certainly does not allow me to fall short of my
goal; it has awarded me the occasion to learn something new
everyday. Whether it is the etiquette and Rules of Golf, Web
site development, or the opportunities available for individuals
with disabilities to play the game, each day is full of chances
to learn and grow. Even away from the office conducting site
visit or championship travel, I have gained professional and
personal knowledge about myself and the organization for which
I am proud to work.
- Erica Goodman, Class of 2006
 When
asked to sum up the USGA Fellowship in one word, I would choose “diversity.” At
the USGA, I have encountered a wide variety of responsibilities
and experiences. I have worked as an individual, in small teams,
and on large teams. I have spent time being mentored and have
mentored others. I have worked as a member of a team and as
a team leader. I have met wonderful people who spend their
lives working in non-profits and I have met incredible volunteers
that have combined their successes in the business world with
the desire to serve. These experiences, combined with what
I have learned from USGA staff and the other eleven fellows,
make me confident that I have developed the skills to succeed
in any path that I decide to pursue after the Fellowship.
- Josh Gelfand, Class of 2006
 While
looking for a post-graduate job, I centered the job search
on helping others, and I knew I could look in the non-profit
sector. However, I did not know that I could find a job in
which I would not only help others, but I could also develop
professionally and personally. There is not a doubt in my mind
that the Fellowship will prepare me for a successful future,
as I have honed skills that I learned in college, and I have
already learned new skills which I will undoubtedly use in
the future. The Fellowship has taken me to places I have never
been before, whether it be a city that I have never been, a
world-renowned golf course, rock climbing, or to a board room
to discuss the next Pikes Peak Linkers day of programming.
I am truly excited to find out where the Fellowship will take
me next!
- Andrew Brockman, Class of 2007
 The
best part about the Fellowship is the people you meet and the
relationships you make. I feel very lucky to have the opportunity
to work with people who I trust completely, who constantly
encourage me, and who can challenge and bring out the best
in me. Most importantly, the people I get to work with are
passionate, hardworking, caring, and successful individuals,
who will hopefully be in my life for a long time.
- Gennessa Guzman, Class of 2006
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