" We are so lucky to have been the first CONNECT and to have met you all. I feel like I have made 9 new friends and I will never forget you. I feel like this program belongs to us and I truly want to make it better and bigger over the years."

" I really learned a lot on this trip. It was really useful. I don't think that I'll forget this trip. Never ever."

" This was one of the most useful, and educating experiences I have had in a long while. The things that I have learned and the friends I have made throughout this trip will be life long. I had a great time visiting the exceptionally unique places in Lebanon, it is truly a beautiful country and I fully enjoyed my time here. CONNECT is a wonderful program and I am sure it will flourish in the future. The staff has been truly superb leaders and also friends. "

" The opportunity to visit Lebanon was incredible, but the opportunity to visit two countries in the Middle East in the same month was awesome. The facilities are awesome. The University is beautiful and offers so much. Next year will be even better with the new field and the student center. The whole team did a great job. You made us feel completely at home and welcome. This experience turned out to be so much more than I could have ever expected. Thanks for changing my life. "

" We [my relatives & I] have kept in good contact since I left Lebanon, so I truly did "connect" this summer on many levels, in addition to connecting with the Balamand team."