Reliance College recently made a powerful impact at LibertyCon International 2025 as a Silver Level Sponsor, introducing students from around the world to the transformative power of Socratic learning and our innovative approach to education. The event was a testament to the growing demand for alternative educational models that foster reason, autonomy, and rigorous inquiry.
A Global Reach: Students from 10+ Countries Engaged
Competing with simultaneous break out sessions and happy hours, our Socratic Seminars at LibertyCon attracted over 30 students from 10 different countries, including Pakistan, Canada, the U.S., Netherlands, Rwanda, Spain, Peru, India, Indonesia, and Nepal. These engaging discussions allowed students to wrestle with fundamental questions about morality, economics, and liberty through Ayn Rand’s What is Capitalism? and Carl Menger’s Principles of Economics.
Beyond the seminars, our booth became a hub of intellectual exchange, drawing in students eager to challenge conventional thinking and seek an education rooted in independent thought and critical inquiry. The enthusiasm we witnessed reinforced the urgent need for an educational approach that emphasizes personal growth through rational discourse and self-discovery.
Why Attend the Great Connections Summer Seminar?
The excitement from LibertyCon carried over to discussions about our flagship event—The Great Connections Summer Seminar. Many students expressed interest in joining us in Chicago from July 26 to August 2, 2025, for a week-long, immersive learning experience. But what makes this seminar so unique and beneficial?
- Deep Intellectual Engagement: Students engage in rich discussions that sharpen their reasoning skills and challenge them to think critically about complex topics.
- Mentorship from Experts: Participants learn from experienced tutors who guide discussions, fostering an environment where independent thought flourishes.
- Hands-on Learning: Beyond readings and discussions, students participate in activities that enhance their ability to connect ideas to real-world applications.
- Career Benefits: The Great Connections Seminar sharpens clarity of mind, communication, and deep reasoning skills—essential assets for professional success. Through rigorous discussions of great works in philosophy, science, and literature, participants refine their ability to analyze complex ideas, articulate thoughts persuasively, and engage in productive dialogue. The small-group format enhances interpersonal skills, teaching participants to communicate with precision, adapt to diverse viewpoints, and collaborate effectively—hallmarks of strong leadership and innovation in any career.
- Lifelong Friendships: Our seminar creates a strong community in which students form meaningful relationships with peers who share their passion for learning and intellectual discovery. One alumnus remarked, “You understand the other person’s mind and get to know them better than almost anyone else.”
- Personal Growth: The combination of introspection and intellectual discourse helps students refine their goals and develop a clearer vision of their future.
Student Testimonials
Past participants have shared how transformative this experience was for them:
“The Great Connections has had by far the most impact on my life, both personally and professionally, and helped me in my career and in my own personal development in a way that no other program has.” – Savannah Schaffer, 2015 Great Connections Alumnus
“The Program gave me confidence that I could achieve great things. It was like something was lit inside. I acquired the intellectual tools to come to my own conclusions. And I realized how lacking my formal education was. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.” – Brendan Moore, 2018 Great Connections Alumnus
“Where I come from, people cannot even picture doing what I’ve done in this program. I am now a growing example of what everyone in my community can do for themselves. I have gained more power with the amount of new ideas shared, sights seen, and people met. It has added to my own personal, physical, and mental power to design my life.” – Derick Ansah, 2019 Great Connections Alumnus
“The experience is pretty shocking. As in: ‘wow, what if school could have been like this all along!?’ — it would have made life so much better.” – Ryan Griggs, 2017 Great Connections Alumnus
Take the Next Step – Apply Now!
📅 Dates: July 26 – Aug 2, 2025
📍 Location: Chicago, IL
🌍 Theme: Reason and Free Will
💰 Early Bird Tuition – Apply by March 1st!
For those ready to take the next step in their intellectual journey, early applications are open! Right now, students can secure their spot for just $400, which includes tuition and dorm accommodations for the entire week.
After March 1st, tuition increases to $800, so we encourage students to apply early and take advantage of this opportunity!
👉 APPLY NOW: www.reliancecollege.org/seminar
Help Us Spread the Word
Do you know a motivated 16-24-year-old who would thrive in this intellectually stimulating environment? Please share this opportunity with them and help us empower the next generation with the tools to think critically and live freely while successfully navigating their work.
We look forward to welcoming many new faces this summer for an unforgettable experience of learning, exploration, and personal growth!
