<p>I was chosen as 1st alternate for Girls State, but the delegate dropped out- three days before the program. Now I am left with the decision as to whether or not Girls State is worth attending. To be honest, my parents and I were not at all impressed by the orientation we had, which talked nothing of the actual campaigning and learning and focused entirely on "singing songs and making friends and hugging!" I am also signed up for a Christian camp that I love, but have not had the chance to go to for two years due to other conflicts. The $400 we put down for it is, of course, non-refundable. </p>
<p>However, I do recognize that Girls State could be an important opportunity for me, and might even look good on the college app to boot. I am looking forward to a future as a legislator for the Department of Education, and this camp seems right up my alley. I burned myself out this year, though, with loads of SAT prep and honors/ap classes. Cramming bills into three days and working hard throughout the camp doesn't necessarily sound appealing at this moment. But the dream is Georgetown (or Yale, if remotely possible), and I am willing to do this if- and only if- it really is a positive learning experience (not some hoo-hah Kumbaya shindig) and it actually bears significant weight on the college app. </p>
<p>So bottom line: Is Girls State actually worth going to? Will it make a difference in college admissions? Will I actually learn something and enjoy it?</p>
<p>I was a delegate and actually held the largest margin win for years. It was a wonderful learning opportunity. Going for a statewide office is very rewarding (even if it doesn’t get you to Girls Nation). What was also wonderful was the networking hat occurred. When I went to college I knew several people, and have run across them throughout my life. </p>
<p>In truth, though it won’t get you into college, I don’t feel it was a wasted week. I met several people that remained in my life, learned to campaign and had a lot of fun.</p>
<p>I attended Girls State a million years ago. Don’t know if it helped get me into college, but it was a fabulous experience and gave me the chance to meet amazing girls (a number of whom I kept up with through college), one of whom wound up in a high statewide office later in life. Serving as whip on the House floor was a thrill. </p>
<p>If you are burned out, though, you may be better off going to camp and recharging your batteries. You won’t get much out of Girls State if you’re not ready to throw yourself into it.</p>
<p>Thanks for your responses! From what I’ve heard, I’m not sure I will enjoy Girls State as much as my Christian camp (which is a BLAST!), but I have decided to go. It may be a feather in my cap, and it might differentiate me from other candidates. I can always go to camp next year, and be a counselor during college. </p>
<p>But if anyone else has anything to add, I’d really appreciate your input! Thanks again!</p>
<p>Girls State (and Nation) were literally some of the best experiences of my life. I met so many intelligent, witty, awesome women (and men) from my state and then all over, and I’ll actually be going to college with 5 of them! There was singing at Girls State and Nation, but it was mostly at downtime. The week was packed with events, like learning about parli pro, campaigning, holding elections, creating campaign platforms and bills and rallies…it was definitely a great way to participate in government processes while still being in a respectful environment. Campaigning for Girls Nation gave me a huge confidence boost, so I recommend running for any office you want; don’t hold back!</p>
<p>Let me know if you have any specific questions. :)</p>