This section contains
a list of some of the most asked questions about Girls State and answers from
the National American Legion Auxiliary. For each question we have provided a
link to more information on this website if it is available.
The program is
funded by Georgia's American Legion Auxiliary, with some additional support
coming from other civic and non-profit organizations. The Girls Nation program
is funded by the national organization of the Auxiliary, with some support from
each participating state. Little or no expense is required of the citizen or her
family.
There are
several scholarships available. See the scholarship
section for more details. You should also check
with your local American Legion Auxiliary to see what scholarships are available
in your area.
This
is a tough one. I mean really. Girls State is in June and you have just
spent the past nine months racking your brains out learning about science,
math, etc. Why would you want to spend another week having to learn stuff?
There are many good reasons to attend Girls State. Here is our very own Top
10 list:
6.
It's cool to learn with people who actually want to learn.
5.
Sparkling counselors.
4.
This is an excellent place to try out your leadership skills with people
who don't know you.
3.
It is VERY good to have on your scholarship applications.
2.
Even though you might not want to admit is now, you like having friends.
Most graduates make life-long friendships with young women from across the
state they have met during this week.
The citizens
are divided into two mythical political "parties." The parties do not
reflect the two major political parties in today's system, but allow citizens to
gain a special knowledge of how the system works. Elections are held to fill
city, county, and state positions. Activities include legislative sessions,
campaigning, party rallies, debating, and voting. The citizens also receive
instruction in Parliamentary Procedure.
This
"hands on" method is unique and extremely effective. Girls State
affords participants an opportunity to live together as self-governing citizens
by informing them about the duties, privileges, rights and responsibilities of
American citizenship and hopefully encourages their participation in the
democratic process as they progress into adulthood. Additional activities
include: talent shows, group devotions, and patriotic ceremonies. See what to expect.
Yes.The parking lot is near the residence halls and patrolled by campus
police.However, you will NOT
have access to your car during the week.You will register your car when you check in with Georgia Girls
State.Parking on the campus
is at your own risk.The
Georgia Girls State program is not responsible for damage to your car or
any parking violations.
1
pm on Sunday.You are
responsible for lunch on Sunday.Many
have sandwiches during the trip to Statesboro.Others have lunch at a local food court nearby on campus and there
are several fast food establishments within a couple of miles.Your sponsoring American Legion Auxiliary should see that you have
lunch before reporting on Sunday.
If
this situation arises the day of the program, our number in Statesboro is
912-688-2039.Once you arrive on campus come to the Georgia Girls State
Office in Kennedy Hall to register.
Hopefully
little.One of the major
benefits of the program is the opportunity to meet new people and learn
about the diversity of our state.The
room assignments are based on random computer housing assignments.
Yes.However, Girls State cannot be held responsible for your cell phone
and their use is not permitted in any Girls State session.There are phone jacks in each room.Please bring a phone and a calling card for your personal use.
Please review our
All
your meals are covered.Any
extra money would be used for snacks in the residence halls and for any
souvenirs you might want to purchase.The Georgia Southern University Bookstore is located near the dorm
and you will have time to shop during the week.We are not responsible for lost or stolen articles or money.
Yes.The address for mail at Girls State is: Girls State - Your Name
c/o Continuing Education Center
Georgia Southern University
PO Box 8124
Statesboro, GA 30460
A good guess.But in case you were wondering, if you are caught in possession of,
or using alcohol or drugs, you will be sent home immediately.We will contact your sponsor and high school and explain why you
are being sent home and why their fees will not be refunded.
If
you cannot attend the ENTIRE program through the Friday Morning
Inauguration/Graduation Ceremony, you should relinquish your invitation
and let another student take your place.Your local American Legion Auxiliary Unit has paid your enrollment
fees and transportation so that you may attend Girls State at no cost.The sponsoring Unit deserves their money's worth.More importantly, you will not receive the full benefits of the
program.Finally, you will be
a part of a TEAM, the city you are assigned to.For you to leave early will put your fellow citizens and city at a
disadvantage.For example,
imagine in your hometown a citizen runs for the position of mayor and as
soon as she is elected she moves away.The faith and trust her fellow citizens placed in her to serve has
been broken.
If during
the week a family emergency arises your parents can contact the Georgia
Girls State office at 912-688-2039 and arrange for your departure.
Friday
morning after the Inauguration/Graduation Ceremony and as soon as your
city counselor gets you checked out.You are expected to return home in the same manner that you
traveled to Georgia Girls State.Anything
different should be arranged with your sponsoring American Legion Unit
(such as my parents will be picking me up).
Generally,
the Inauguration/Graduation Ceremony is over between 11:00 and 11:30 a.m.
