In a world of emerging leaders, few shine as brightly as Ella York, a senior at Ponte Vedra High School. Whether leading Student Government, presiding over the Debate Club, or championing Model United Nations, Ella has left a lasting mark. Yet it is her participation in the Great Decisions program that has most profoundly shaped her worldview, deepening her understanding of international affairs and solidifying her aspirations for a future in global leadership.
The Great Decisions program, a unique global educational initiative provided by the World Affairs Council of Jacksonville, aims to spark curiosity among high school students by exposing them to the complex and interconnected world of international affairs. Through dynamic discussions, debates, and direct engagement with thought leaders in global relations, Great Decisions fosters critical thinking and decision-making skills.
For Ella, joining the Great Decisions program was more than an extracurricular activity; it was a transformative experience. Not only did she help establish her school’s Great Decisions chapter, but she also discovered a career aspiration in foreign service.
“Great Decisions exposed me to a whole new world of possibilities,” Ella said. “Speaking with acclaimed individuals like Mathew Rojnasky and Jane Harman helped me realize that my future lies in international relations, whether as a diplomat or an analyst.”
Along with her participation with the Great Decisions program, Ella’s team, “Shooting for the Stars” (pictured right), won this year’s Jonathan T. Howe Academic World Quest (AWQ) competition held at the University of North Florida.
Driven by her passion for international relations, Ella interned with the U.S. Secret Service at the Jacksonville Field Office during the summer of 2024. In this role, she supported agents by compiling evidence, analyzing financial records, and assisting victims. She was also one of only two students selected to represent Florida at the FBI Youth Leadership Program, held at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. In addition, Ella was chosen for the State Department’s Virtual National Security Language Initiative for Youth, where she served as the keynote speaker for the Russian language cohort.
Undoubtedly, the Great Decisions program has played a significant role in shaping Ella’s future. Yet, her journey does not end there. She adds, “The experience with Great Decisions opened my mind to new perspectives and enabled me to discuss important issues during my interview for the U.S. Senate Youth Program.” Ella was one of only two students selected from Florida to represent the state at this prestigious event.
Her experience exemplifies why programs like Great Decisions are so crucial for young minds in northeast Florida.
To learn more about the Great Decisions program and ways to support our education programming, click here!
