This was my second year participating in Youth and Government and I had an excellent time. Last year I was in the media program and this year I was in the Senate program. I have to admit, I enjoyed my experience much more this year than last! It was so much fun getting to speak in front of people and debate bills. I discovered a little bit more about myself as I had to choose how to vote. It was an enlightening experience. I also enjoyed making so many new friends- our delegation grew so close. We were amidst 2,000 other California delegates and I felt so privileged to be apart of such an intelligent and involved group of my peers. We had so much fun at the Bounce House night (room FULL of jolly jumps), the dance, and at our farewell hangout session. Everyone got along really well and everyone seemed to enjoy their individual experiences.
One of my favorite parts of the trip was being asked to escort California's Secretary of State, Debra Bowen, into the Convention Center. It was exciting to meet her and hear what she had to say to our generation. It was also fun to see the real senators and assemblymen in action because of crisis with the state budget. Normally, the politicians are on vacation during our trip but they were called into emergency session so I got to see it all! It was amazing to me to see how disrespectful they were; they listened to their iPods and texted people with their fellow legislators were trying to give a speech! It doesn't set a good example.
It was also exciting because my peers and advisers voted for me as Channel Islands Delegate of the Year. This is quite an honor to me. As a gift they gave me Dr. Suess' Oh the Places You'll Go with a bunch of individual messages to me inside. I will always keep that and treasure it.
I'm sad that it's my last year in Sacramento- I had such a great time!
