Junior Genesis Anguiano prepares to represent Downey High School as this year’s delegate for the 2011 American Legion Auxiliary Girls State.
Girls State is a nationwide program that sets out to help high school girls, which have completed their junior year and understand local and state government. It focuses on increasing awareness of the responsibilities of citizens and preparing future leaders of America. Throughout this weeklong convention, participants from different counties and cities join together to form a mock state of California’s government.
Each year, teachers nominate girls that they believe show leadership qualities, are interested in politics, and excel academically to compete for the prestigious title. After the nominations, the top five or six girls go on to the interview process where the delegate, as well as 1st and 2nd runner-ups are chosen. This year’s runner-ups include Shannon Regalbuto and Rebekah Jin.
Anguiano was the lucky girl given the opportunity to head over to Girls State, which will be held at Claremont McKenna College. Being captain of Speech and Debate, Anguiano is well prepared for the challenges to come.
“Speech and debate has helped me become a more persuasive, confident, and articulate speaker,” Anguiano said, “and I think those qualities will definitely give me an advantage during elections.”
Anguiano’s strong academia and involvement in extracurricular activities made her a strong contender when it came to nominations.
“There were a number of qualified candidates,” Speech and Debate coordinator Ms. King said, “but the academic and emotional growth that I have seen in Genesis provides her with a sense of responsibility that is not common in a high school junior.”
The aspiring politician delegate looks forward to not only meeting new people, but learning about politics and her potential career as well. Anguiano prepares for this week long convention with confidence and anxiousness as she carries the support of her family, peers, and teachers.
“I think she’ll do wonderfully,” physics teacher Mr. Nelson said. “She’s very passionate about politics and likes a good argument.”
Having already earned a place in this year’s Girls State, Anguiano now strives for a Girls Nation nomination. Girls Nation is the next step after Girls State as two girls are nominated to represent their state in a Washington D.C. conference.
