For four days of February, the Fort Hays State University Hispanic American Leadership Organization (HALO) attended a conference at the United States Hispanic Leadership Institute in Chicago, Ill.

Students could pick which workshops to attend.

"I learned to become a better person and persevere through tough moments," said Cesar Garcia, Garfield sophomore. "I met special people such as activists and politicians and interacted with other people from around the United States."

During their spare time, students were able to get in some sightseeing.

"I also learned that communication is success," said Jorge Olivas-Tena, Aurora, Colo. freshman. "Being able to learn new things from people who have been successful in their life and knowing what they did to get where they are now was such a great experience, and the best part about it was I learned new things that can help me be successful."

"I attended leadership workshops regarding different aspects leading to success such as education, community engagement and economic plan workshops," said Erica Vega, Salina freshman.

Students are listed by hometown with their classifications and majors.

Aurora, Colo.: Jorge Olivas-Tena, freshman majoring in management.

Denver, Colo.: Meredith Arriaga, freshman majoring in biology.

Ellis: David Lopez, freshman majoring in physics.

Garfield: Cesar Garcia, sophomore majoring in radiologic technology.

Healy: Omar Hernandez, freshman majoring in information networking.

Kansas City: Cinthia Rodriguez, freshman majoring in physics.

Liberal: Luis De La Torre, junior majoring in radiologic technology; Erain Lira, junior majoring in tourism and hospitality; Valeria Manriquez, sophomore majoring in tourism and hospitality; Kathy Nguyen, freshman majoring in radiologic technology; Benito Rivera, junior majoring in biology and Andrea Zamora, sophomore majoring in biology.

Salina: Bereniece De La Cruz-Escobedo, sophomore majoring in nursing, and Erica Vega, freshman majoring in nursing.

Sublette: Misael Trejo, freshman.