We sent three members’ high school students to the annual National Rural Electric Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. last month for a week of:
Sharif – My favorite part of the trip was visiting Capitol Hill. Speaking to the employees of our representatives and asking questions about issues that were important to me was incredibly valuable for a multitude of reasons. I was able to obtain information that may be hard to obtain through research and a look into their careers as staffers. As this is something I may want to do in the future, it was incredibly helpful to see their careers through a personal lens.
Isla – My favorite part of the trip was getting to meet the staffers.
It was incredible to be in the place where such important decisions are made, with the people who help make those decisions possible.
It was very empowering to know that they are just people and that this could be me someday.
Tatum – My favorite part of the trip was definitely getting to meet people, they were all so kind and smart.
Furthermore, I loved The library of Congress and the architecture there.
Sharif – The most valuable lesson I learned on the Youth Tour was that lifelong friendships can be formed quickly. The lesson here was being able to trust new people. Youth Tour was made up of incredibly exceptional individuals with whom I was able to meet and become good friends. I am usually not quick to trust, but my peers’ generosity and kindness allowed me to form bonds with them that could last me a lifetime.
Isla – That we all know the steps to the Cupid Shuffle, and if we’re given pins and the objective to gather the rest, we will behave like ravenous crows searching for treasure.
This is to say, we’re more similar than we are different. It was very powerful to be in a room with people from almost every state and to know that we all have something in common.
Tatum – We learned a lot, everything from history to our electric co-ops.
My most valuable lesson learned was to get involved and learn
everything you possibly can.
Sharif – To future students on the Youth Tour, I would tell them to be open-minded about what the tour has to offer. Each and every day of the Youth Tour offered something different, whether it was a new experience, perspective, or challenge. Being open-minded to all those things made my Youth Tour experience so fulfilling, valuable, and enjoyable. The Youth Tour is incredibly short, given it has so much to offer in such a short time, so make the most of every single day. Ask questions, explore every place we go, and do not be afraid to embarrass yourself.
Isla – It is an incredible experience that I would recommend wholeheartedly.
Bring comfy shoes and more nice outfits than are recommended.
Be prepared to encounter differing opinions and be willing to expand your own.
Tatum – I think this trip is amazing experience in anyone who’s looking to go on it definitely should!
Sharif – Youth Tour was an incredible experience that I recommend to anyone my age, regardless of what field they want to explore. Whether you want a career in government, electricity, or something else, The Youth Tour is greatly valuable!
Isla – I’m beyond grateful that I was given this opportunity.
I hope you continue to extend this opportunity as it was truly amazing! Thank you again!
Tatum – My favorite part of the trip was definitely getting to meet people, they were all so kind and smart.
Furthermore, I loved The library of Congress and the architecture there.
A special congratulations to Sharif, who was elected by his statewide peers to represent Colorado on the Youth Leadership Council!
Sharif – The part I am most excited about representing Colorado is being able to help and represent individuals who wish to be represented. There is joy for those people when they know their voices have been heard, and I am most excited about bringing that to them. The YLCs also must give a big speech in March for a conference, and I am excited about that because it gives me a chance to speak in front of a crowd of thousands of people.