I just went to New York’s Boys’ State program at SUNY Morrisville. At first I had the same struggles as you, and I’m glad you were able to overcome them. I found it a great way to break out of my shell a little bit, as you could be someone else than the person you are around your high school. I was elected to the state senate too, along with a court of appeals (New York’s Supreme Court) justice. We had marine NCO’s on site and it made the whole experience a lot more interesting (I’d argue for the better, as you could ask more direct questions and get new responses!). From the get-go when I was nominated by my school, I was told that this was an incredible opportunity, as out of every male junior in the state of New York, under 700 were selected to participate. I too was told that this program would look very good on college applications, and I am hoping to God that they’re right. I’m trying to get into Syracuse University, and I have the grades to possibly be accepted, but it’s incredibly expensive and would need aid to enter. Hopefully things like Boys’ State will help with that. Either way, even if Boys’ State doesn’t help with college at all, I don’t regret a thing and am very glad I went, as I made a ton of new friends and stay in touch with many of them. I encourage anyone who reads this to bring the Boys’ State program to your school district’s attention, as it is a very intriguing and rewarding program to all who give the effort to get involved. As my staff Sargent would repeat throughout the week; “lead, follow, or get out of the way… except the the last two aren’t options”.
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