One of my favorite quotes by St. Alphonsus Liguori says, “When we see something beautiful… let us think there that we behold a ray of the infinite beauty of God.” What a glimpse of that beauty I had the opportunity of seeing at Texas Bluebonnet Girls State (TBGS). While I could list the activities we did throughout the week, such as mock senate sessions or bill writing, it wouldn’t convey the magic of TBGS. What made it incredible wasn’t the structure; it was the people and the smiles shared between over 600 girls from across the state.
I am still in awe of every citizen I met. Surrounded by the best and brightest girls in the state, each citizen exuded humility, passion, and kindness. If you’re talking to the girl on your left and get separated, turn to the girl on your right; she’ll be your new best friend. There’s nowhere else like Girls State, where friendships come so easily and competition takes a back seat to celebrating others. So, instead of a rundown, I want to share some of the moments and people who have impacted me the most. The ones that gave me a glimpse into the future of our state, which will be led by the most incredible women.
First, a staff member: “Madame President”, Ms. Claire Noel. Every citizen in attendance left TBGS wanting to be her when they grow up. On my first day in the Senate, I stood in awe of how she carried herself. She called us out of order when we spoke incorrectly, but always gave fourth, even fifth, chances to ensure we understood the process. It was a kind of leadership I wanted to model, professional but compassionate.
What surprised me most, however, wasn’t the staff but the support from every citizen. Going into primary elections for Lieutenant Governor, I expected the other girls to start sizing me up, hoping I would do something wrong. I instantly stood corrected. The girl to my left led us in prayer. The girl to my right shared her Goldfish with me. Right before we went on stage, another person said, “I genuinely hope each of you does well; it’s an honor to share the stage with you.” I came into the week thinking success meant beating others, TBGS showed me a better way to think: you can work towards a goal while simultaneously celebrating those around you.
The next day, something unexpected happened: I won. During the general election, my whole city came together, helping me rehearse my speech and create posters. When I got back to the dorm at nearly midnight, I was met by hugs and cheers from the girls who made my win possible. TBGS made me want to be the type of person who cheers loudly for others’ successes, and these girls showed me how.
However, it wasn’t just big moments. Some of my favorite memories were smaller interactions, such as walking with my friend, Noel Hromas, and looking for a word to describe our experience. After a few minutes, she said, “TBGS is supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” I couldn’t agree more. This program deserves more than an average word.
On day one, my counselor said by the end of the week, we wouldn’t stop talking about TBGS. I didn’t believe her. Well, a month later, I still bring it up at every opportunity and ask my mom. TBGS is more than just teaching civics; it teaches young women how to support one another, how leadership isn’t about being the loudest, but about being the one who listens. I walked in not knowing what to expect, but left with more confidence in the leader I hope to become. One day, I hope to return and help others experience the magic I did. Still, even if I don’t, my prayers are always with future citizens! TBGS- if God’s beauty is the sun, you are one of its brightest rays! Thank you for all the moments filled with kindness and joy, laughter and song, that truly fill all my memories. I love you. Thank you for everything!
