By Sravya Garimella
Westlake High School
Youth and Government may appear extremely daunting at first, but upon closer examination, there is far more to it than meets the eye. Youth and Government is a nationwide program that gives students the opportunity to learn about the legislative process, debate real-world issues, and develop leadership skills in a supportive environment. According to former delegate Annika Krovi “The most important part of all of the programs is to be engaged in some ways!” Students simulate various
government roles, such as legislators and lawyers, and work collaboratively with peers. Through these experiences, students not only gain a deeper understanding of how government functions but also build confidence and lasting friendships. There is such a vast pool of opportunities for students, which makes it difficult to know what event embodies their interests. Krovi states “To me, YIG was very formative because it helped me discover my passion for government and public service! That only happened because I joined the events I was interested in, made friends, and learned more about the government through the conference. For that reason, I’d recommend that every student participates in this program and joins the events that they are inspired and interested in! That way, you’re having fun and learning at
the same time.” Youth and Government shows that when students step beyond their comfort zones, they gain more than just an understanding of politics. They build confidence, form lasting friendships, and develop a vision for the future, transforming challenges into opportunities for leadership and growth.
