How to Survive (and Thrive) at Girls State! AKA: Advice for Future Delegates

I don’t think anyone can ever truly be ready for Girls State—but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s a whirlwind of information, elections, friendship, chants, and so much more that simply cannot be summarized in an article. However, even if I cannot prepare you for each and every aspect of the week, I can pass along a few tips I wish I’d known.

We’ll start with something you’ll probably hear a dozen times before you even step foot on campus, but I don’t think it can be overstated. Girls State is what you make it. In my time at LAGS I’ve never felt judged for putting myself out there, and I definitely haven’t regretted it. Run for offices, campaign, participate in the spirit days! Speaking of spirit days, they’re HUGE. You really can’t overdo it! Face glitter, ribbons, Mardi Gras beads, wigs, go all out! Spirit days can also be a great way to make friends—everyone loves the girl who makes sure her friends are as decked out as she is. Another fun way to make friends is clipping! This one is probably my favorite. It’s a simple tradition, really! Come prepared with decorated clothes-pins to clip onto your fellow citizens, I recommend having a lot! (I made 50 and still almost ran out)

On a more serious note, be ready for longgg days. Pack comfortable clothes and shoes, as well as a rain jacket! There’s a lot of walking between buildings and we all know Louisiana weather is crazy. You leave your dorms around 8AM and don’t go back until well after 9PM—but that’s not where your day ends! Between campaign speeches, special projects, and whatever else you take on in your time as a delegate, odds are you’ll have some work to do at night. The best thing you can do to stay awake, alert, and enthusiastic through these long days is to eat well at all three meals. I know many of you will say “but I never eat three meals.” Well, you will at LAGS. I promise.

I know all the talk of long days and public speaking may seem discouraging, but believe me when I say it’s worth it. You will find yourself loving things you’d never even considered trying, and you’ll learn about things you’ve never even heard of.

There’s so much to love about Girls State, but I think the most amazing part is all of the ways Girls State helps you to love yourself.