By Diana Jiminez,
Uplift Summit High School
The bus ride is loud. Everyone’s talking. Some people are reviewing speeches. Others are pretending they’re not nervous. But nothing really compares to the moment you walk into the opening ceremony for the first time at the state Youth and Government conference. That’s when it actually feels real.
For a lot of delegates, arriving at state is more than just checking in or getting a name badge. It’s the moment all the late meetings, edits on their proposals, and practice speeches turn into something bigger.
Delegate Navarro described that feeling clearly. “Even before getting to state, I was super thrilled for what was to come,” Navarro said. “Last year was my first year, and while there were some moments of pressure, they were all forgotten the second I walked into General Assembly as I saw how everyone saw this experience as something more than just a mock government system, but as a place to grow and have fun.”
For first-year delegates, that first walk into the chamber can be overwhelming in the best way. The room is full. The energy is high. And suddenly, Youth and Government is not just something you do after school — it feels important.
For returning delegates, the arrival hits differently. There’s excitement, but there’s also reflection. Especially for seniors, it means one last chance to stand in that room and compete at one of the highest levels.
“I am super excited for this year as it is my last year, but I know it’ll be just as good as last year, maybe, and hopefully, even better,” Navarro said.
State can be competitive and stressful at times. But in that first moment standing in General Assembly, it becomes clear that this experience is about more than winning. It’s about growth, confidence, and being part of something bigger than yourself.