Tim Burgess

Burgess attended the seminar in 2018 as a representative from Kennebunk High School. He is currently studying Criminal Justice Saint Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire with an anticipated graduation in 2024.

He took the time to answer some questions about his Maine Youth Leadership experience and how it has impacted his life. Keep reading to learn more about this outstanding alum.

How do you show the MYL pillar of volunteerism in your daily life?

When I was younger I would always jump at any opportunity to volunteer or do something good for my community. To this day I still do that, but I like to teach others about how to volunteer and the best ways to do it. I believe everyone should give back to their community in some way. It is very important to give back and help others in need.

How do you show the MYL pillar of character in your daily life?

Since MYL I have found interesting characteristics about myself that I didn’t even know about before MYL. Characteristics such as funny, honest, and intelligent. These are extremely important characteristics to have in life, because it will make you a better leader.

How do you show the MYL pillar of leadership in your daily life?

Learning how to be a good leader is an extremely important skill in life. MYL taught me so many amazing ways to be a great leader. Because of my experience I have been able to apply many of the leadership traits I learned at MYL to my everyday life, and I will use them in my future.

How would you say MYL impacted your trajectory in life? (the decisions you made, the things you did, etc.)

Before MYL I was less confident in myself. I was shy and I wasn’t outgoing in any way. I only knew basic leadership skills from my experience in boy scouts. Coming away from MYL I changed as a person. My walls were torn down and I was made into a much better person. I am more confident speaking in front of others and now when someone says “OUTSTANDING” I feel the urge to do the MYL chant. Learning new ways to be a leader has helped me with many things. I was a very active member in my local boy scout troop and I played many leadership roles, and I put many MYL skills to the test. Returning to MYL in 2019 as a JC I was so excited to help Sophomores experience the same thing I did. 

Did any MYL relationship help you along your way? (JC, SF, AC, fellow alum, etc.) and if so, how?

During my Ambassador year I had the privilege of having Jack Flanagan as my SF. I was going through a tough and stressful time when I was at MYL. My grandfather was losing his battle with lung cancer and I wasn’t in the best state of mind. I remember the final night when I shared the story with my group. Jack listened and they offered me words of encouragement and advice. I will never forget that dark, starry night outside at USM.

What is the legacy you want to leave behind?

I want young people to know that they can do anything they set their mind to. Hard work and goals help you get to your goals. You only live once, so make the most of your life and do what you want to do.

What is your fondest memory from your MYL experience?

My fondest memory at MYL was when I was a JC. The last night is always emotional, but it is my favorite. People listening to others tell their tough life story reminds you that there are other people who live differently in this world. Not everyone has a happy and fun life. I got to listen to some pretty tough stories from my group and to offer comfort and advice was the best feeling to me.

What might someone be surprised to learn about you?

People see me as someone who looks tough, but when they get to know me I am someone who loves to talk to others and help them. I am driven by helping others.

What gives you hope?

Helping other people in all sorts of ways, big or small. I love to give back and to help people that need it and even those that don’t.

What gets you particularly fired up?

I love to see people come together and learn from one another. We must all come together in the world, because we are all one big community.

How does your MYL experience impact your everyday work and/or life?

MYL impacts my life everyday. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t reflect on my time at MYL. The leadership and life skills I learned at MYL help me with college life. Things like time management, leadership, and knowledge of different lifestyles all help me with being the best person I can be and making an impact on this world.

 Any fun hobbies?

Many that went to MYL with me know that I am a volunteer firefighter back home. I am also a door dasher, which I consider a hobby, because I enjoy doing it in my spare time. I enjoy watching movies and tv shows. My final hobby is that I enjoy writing about different things that come to my mind.

If you are a Maine Youth Leadership alum and you’d like to share your story, please email Maria NeCastro at mariatnecastro@gmail.com.

Thank you for reading!

[Published online: 3/8/2021]