From the outside, Girls State seems like a mock-government summer camp where everyone wears Lilly skirts and sings songs. While this is technically true, it is so much more than that. Here are four reasons why Girls State is a week that changes a lifetime:
1. The Sisterhood
Over the course of seven days, you go from being complete strangers to sharing an unbreakable bond with dozens of girls. Something about staying up all night to decorate your city hall, cheering each other on in the elections and singing together on the Statehouse steps cultivates deep friendships. The people you meet at Girls State often end up being your future roommates, sorority
2. The Personal Development
“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think.”
Girls State teaches you just this. There’s nothing quite like giving a speech in front of hundreds of your peers to get you outside your comfort zone. But win or lose, Girls State provides an environment of support and encouragement. This is the perfect setting for girls to grow the self-confidence that they will then carry with them for the rest of their lives.
3. The Education
We all know that women fought for decades to obtain the right to vote. What Girls State teaches you is how important it is to use this precious right. Through mock-elections, the week instills the value of being an informed and engaged citizen. Furthermore, it inspires young women to go be leaders in their communities.
4. The Appreciation for Your State and Country
Nothing could finer than to be in Carolina in the morning…
After a week at Girls State, you believe this with all your heart. Meeting government officials like the Attorney General and the Superintendent gives you a newfound appreciation for those in public service. In addition, learning about the sacrifices of our service men and women make you truly proud to be an American.
From the first assembly to the teary-eyed hugs when it's time to leave, Girls State is a week that changes a lifetime. Anyone who has experienced it knows that they'll be singing "Carolina in the Morning" for all their days.
