Over the Summer, I was given the opportunity to attend American Legion Auxiliary Hoosier Girls State at Trine University. On the official ALA HGS website, the event is described as a “week-long program designed to educate Indiana’s young women in the duties, privileges, rights, and responsibilities of good citizenship.” Basically, it teaches students about our government and the election process. While this does not sound all too exciting at first, I quickly learned just how fun, chaotic, and interesting this week could be.
Starting with check-in on day one, we got a chance to meet our roommates and settle in before going to the first of many meetings, which set the tone for the week. The energy in the room was incredible; everyone was excited and nervous, and while it was very overwhelming, I was having a great time already.
The group was split into four ‘counties’, and each county was split into two ‘cities’ based on where we were staying. For the next six days, these cities and counties would work to elect local and state representatives in a mock government. Everyone ran for something, and if you were elected, you had to act out the duties of that position on the final day of the session. I ran for county coroner, and though I lost the election, I still had a blast campaigning and giving speeches to my county.
I was also able to play the trumpet at our daily flag lowering ceremony. I shared this job with another delegate. The two of us alternated by day, and got to perform Taps each night after dinner. We also had a drummer and color guard. It was great to meet band students from across the state who are as passionate about it as I am.
My 17th birthday fell on the second day of the week, and my city celebrated with cupcakes. We decorated our building, came up with group cheers, and showed off our spirit whenever we could. This experience has given me so many new friends from all across Indiana, and allowed me to meet a diverse and strong group of people that I never would have known without it.
Another highlight of ALA HGS was the packed, almost hectic schedule. Starting at six in the morning with breakfast and often ending near midnight, our days were filled with all sorts of interesting and unique activities. There was very little down time- which most of us used as naptime- and we all had our campaigns to prepare for. It was exhausting, but totally worth it.
By attending ALA Hoosier Girls State, I have gained knowledge, memories, and ambitions that I never would have before. I have a deeper understanding and respect for our country and our government process, and I am proud to be counted among the amazing group of young women who attended the 2024 session with me. I was not prepared for how much of a life-changing experience this would be for me and my fellow delegates.
