Austin, TX – As the Youth and Government participants boarded the bus to Kalahari, the air buzzed with anticipation. For many, this trip was the start of a new experience- an opportunity to debate, legislate, and bond with other students who share similar interests.

The journey was a long 3 hour ride, filled with anticipation and nervous laughter. During the trip, Noah Dinh, a junior from Glenda Dawson Highschool, utilized his time to practice “game plan” for their mock trials. “I want this to be more than pretend, I want to become the character,” he said. “It’s my second time competing at State, and I want us to lock in. Better than last year.”

Others adopted a more casual attitude, viewing the trip as an opportunity to relax before the intensity of the conference. “To be honest, the bus ride is my favorite part,” said Dawson junior William Britton. “We get to chill, sleep, and just talk to each other the entire time! Plus the Bucc-ee trips.”
Several buses were filled with study sessions, with students quizzing one another on each of their roles, arguments in court, and bill presentation. “It’s nice to see how dedicated they are,” noted advisor Mr. Tylan. “Even on the bus, they’re preparing to give it their all to the conference.”

And naturally, no several-hour-long bus ride would be complete without snacks and tunes. A trip to Bucc-ees gave the students a fun trip grab lunch the as a playlist that streamed Kendrick Lamar set everyone in the right mood. “It’s all about the vibe,” joked David Ci, a returning delegate. “A good playlist makes or breaks the ride.” In between rounds of quizzing, gaming, and loud sing-alongs, the experience was one in itself. “It’s moments like these that make these trips worthwhile,” said Madison Trang. “It’s not all about testing; it’s about the friends and experiences that took place.”

Before the buses arrived at Kalahari, the students were tired but prepared for what was coming. With the last notes in practice and bus hang-outs, the trip had created just the proper groundwork for the future of an exciting YG experience.

(Traveling to Kalahari, students of Youth and Government practice their mock trials and quiz each other in a fun and simplistic way.)

By: Emma Hoang Glenda Dawson Highschool

Austin, TX – The moments leading up to a Mock Trial round at the Texas Youth and Government (YG) State Conference are filled with a mix of nerves, last-minute strategy adjustments, and intense preparation. As teams step into the courtroom, every second counts in perfecting their case and anticipating their opponent’s arguments. For many, preparation starts long before the conference, but the final minutes before trial are crucial. Delegates can be seen huddled in groups, flipping through binders filled with case law, objections, and witness statements. “Right before the trial, we run through our direct and cross-examinations one last time,” said Sophia Nguyen, a student attorney from the Houston Delegation. “It’s all about making sure we sound confident and clear in front of the judges.”

A major part of last-minute prep involves moot court-style drills, where teams fire off rapid objections and refine their responses under pressure. “Objections can make or break a case,” said Noah Dinh, a Mock Trial veteran competing in his third YG conference. “We practice how to respond quickly and stay composed no matter what the opposing team throws at us.” Beyond legal strategy, mental preparation is just as important. Some delegates take a few moments to gather their thoughts, while others listen to music or say affirmation to themselves for confidence.

(Houston Delegates at YG state discussing their lines for their roles in their mock trial)

“I always take a deep breath and remind myself: We’ve worked hard for this,” said Elizabeth Kim, a student witness. “Once we start, the nerves fade, and it’s all about the case.” As teams walk into the courtroom, all their preparation comes down to this: a battle of logic, persuasion, and strategy. Whether they’re arguing for the plaintiff or the defense, Mock Trial participants know that their success isn’t just about knowing the law—it’s about how well they think on their feet, respond to challenges, and present their case with confidence.

By: Madison Trang Glenda Dawson Highschool

Austin, TX – As members of Youth and Government (YG) get set for the long-awaited Texas YG State Conference at Kalahari Resorts, excitement is on a fever level. For these students, the experience is one of not only being able to showcase talents but also one of encountering like-minded peers from around the state in a unique circumstance. This year, delegations from across Texas—including Glenda Dawson Delegation and Austin YG—are preparing for an intense yet rewarding experience. Students will take part in a variety of programs, including Legislative, Judicial, and Media, each offering a hands-on approach to civic engagement. “I’ve been looking forward to Kalahari all year,” said Lia Fortez, a first-time participant in the Legislative program. “It’s my first time to debate on such a large platform, but I know I’m going to have a great time.”

Returning delegates don’t find it just competitive but also friend-making and memory-making at Kalahari’s conference. “Kalahari makes the conference special,” testified William Britton, a seasoned Mock Trial participant. “By day, we labor, but evenings we can relax and bond with our delegations.” Some of the participants use the resort amenities, relaxing at the world-famous indoor water park after a long day arguing, on trial, and presenting. The excitement at Kalahari is undeniable, as students buzz about discussing pending bills, court cases, and crafting breaking news stories throughout the Media program

Delegates to the House and Senate will debate bills related to major issues, while Judicial members will head to the courtroom to present their arguments to volunteer judges. All the while, students within the Media program will bring the action to life, reporting on the most important moments of the conference. As buses pull up and students step into the grand halls of Kalahari, the competition is real. Whether preparing for hot debates in the House and Senate, making arguments in court,nor reporting on big events in the Media program, competitors are ready to leave their mark on Texas YG 2025.

By: Madison Trang Glenda Dawson Highschool