Story by Karysa Brown, Carlton; Edited by Lale Akkin, Mounds View; Image by Nicholas Anderson, Irondale
A great diversity of people decide to take up Youth in Government, all with different ideas on what they want to do in the future. Are the Youth in Government delegates actually planning on continuing their lives in government, or will they pursue another aspect of their lives? Even though many delegates take part in YIG for a resume, others actually take special interest in government. Anyone can enjoy Youth in Government, but who are those people? Many adults describe Youth in Government programs as interesting, fun, serious, and a great experience overall, but do the delegates themselves agree? Do they believe they are going to succeed because they participated in a 4-day program for a few years?
“I believe the program is good. For a career, I plan to become a commercial pilot. Youth in Government will definitely help me succeed later, giving me many skills,” says Saja Saad from the Lakeville Delegation.
Most delegates agree that the program is good because of the skills it develops. Youth in Government can help with public speaking, taking responsibilities, and learning how to write better. Gaining ideas for bills, case arguments, and articles can be difficult, but this program also teaches how to grasp and use those ideas. During their time at YIG, many people create friendships that can last a lifetime. People with similar goals and plans
“I rate Youth in government a five out of five, I love YIG and I’m happy to be a part of this group as well as the community. The career I would like to go into is being a teacher or an author. I’ve learned a lot of new skills such as teamwork and collaboration; even public speaking. Here in media, I learned a lot about writing articles; writing in general to be honest. Another few things I learned is how to edit my own work and find my own voice,” says Lindley Johnson from the Shakopee Delegation.
Youth in Government has a welcoming community. Friendships form easily due to common interests and close-proximity. The environment encourages teamwork and communication, developing those skills as well. Understanding how to use their voice helps get their opinions and ideas out there, also building self-confidence. It helps them be outspoken, making it easier to have a good time and creating more possibilities for the future.
“I don’t plan on going into a government related job. I wanna go into the DNR or work in state national parks. I learned life-skill-wise that some people have harsh opinions, and I learned how to speak up a lot. Youth in Government will have me succeed in the future making me more confident and speak better. I would rate Youth in Government so far a four out of five,” says Nadia Tessier from the Carlton Delegation.
Youth in Government helps people succeed by giving them more self-confidence. When delegates have more confidence, they feel like they can conquer anything thrown at them. With confidence, anyone can gain the ability to speak in public, or even just keep conversations going.
“I do plan on going into a government position, but if that didn’t work out I would work in the performing arts. I would rate the Youth in government experience out of five, an eight out of five, because YIG today ate. The skills that YIG has taught me are public speaking skills, confidence, how to be more respectful, and how to get myself out of my own comfort zone. Youth in Government has also taught me to make friends and take the opportunities that are given to me,” says Asher Defoe from the Carlton delegation.
Youth in Government brings in all kinds of people, teachers, pilots, performing arts kids, and more under one roof and gets them to work together and share experiences. YIG is many things, but it is a great place to meet new people. Join in on or start a conversation, everyone has a story to share!