By Sevanah Sandoval
Are you a girl in the class of 2025? Are you high-achieving? Do you have an interest in leadership? Are you looking for a summer extra-curricular to put on your college applications? If so, I encourage you to attend the informational meeting about the 2024 session of ALA California Girls State in the College and Career Center on February 1st during Access.
As Benicia High School’s 2023 ALA CAGS delegate and a 2024 Junior Counselor, I am here to tell you why applying for this program is worth your time. “ALA” stands for the American Legion Auxiliary, which is dedicated to supporting the American Legion and veterans, the military, and military families through community service. The ALA hosts this event for one week every summer, with around four hundred girls from across California.
Girls State is a program that takes place in every state. One girl from over four hundred high schools in California attend California Girls State, and have the chance to run for an array of city, county, and state leadership positions, from mayor to governor. They also have the chance to be roommates with a girl from across the state and meet dozens of new people with similar aspirations. In my experience, Girls State was the most uplifting and inspirational environment I have ever been in because I was surrounded by so many supportive high-achievers that wanted the best for each other.
Throughout the week-long program, you’ll have the chance to live in the Sacramento State dorms, elect leaders, run for office, and attend meetings for your political party–the Nationalists or Federalists. You’ll also make great bonds with the girls you meet as you all brave long, hot yet exciting days together while learning about how the government works.
The Girls State experience doesn’t end when the program does. When you finish it, you become a part of the Alumnae Foundation, which allows you to network with other alumni. You can also apply to return the following year as a Junior Counselor, which I did! So, if you attend, we’ll be seeing each other. Further, two delegates per session are chosen to attend Girls Nation, which takes place in Washington DC with girls from all over the country. They also get to meet many government officials.
I wanted to write this article about Girls State because it is severely unknown at Benicia High School. I almost didn’t apply for it at all because I had no idea what it was. I am so grateful that I did apply. I got to make close friends that I still keep in touch with, learn about leadership and the government, and make great connections with counselors and other mentors. Girls State is truly invaluable, so if you are eligible, I encourage you to attend the information session.
– Sevanah Sandoval, City Clerk of Earhart, McMahon County.
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