Every school year, the American Legion provides students across the state with the opportunity to apply for Boys and Girls State.

During the month of January, application flyers are made available around the school. Representatives from the previous Boys/Girls State participants visit junior History classes preaching the benefits of applying to Boys/Girls State.

Both programs are advertised as a week long experience on a college campus where students will learn about Virginia government while also participating in activities such as sports or music. Boys/Girls State is completely free as well, paid for by American Legion donators. 

This year, Boys State was held at Radford University whereas Girls State was held at Longwood University. Both programs lasted from June 16th to the 22nd.

Representing Annandale, juniors Mitchell Eggert, Nate Ferson and Mike Romero were selected to attend Boys State. Juniors Allauna Harrison, Abby Kitila, Anoosh Taquir and Nuha Khan represented AHS at Girls State.

At Boys State, students had a busy week of learning and activities. The boys participated in sporting and musical activities of their choice while also engaging in learning experiences about Virginia State government. 

“We got to see appearances from the governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, state troopers and others and they all presented during the week and taught us about the processes of our state government” junior Mitchell Eggert said.

In addition to learning, students also had time to experiment with engaging activities. 

“There were plenty of activities to participate in but my favorite was Chorus, I had never really participated in anything singing related so it was a new and fun experience” junior Nate Ferson said.

At Girls State, students had similar opportunities to engage in learning and fun. “I personally engaged in debate but my favorite thing about Girls State was how we were encouraged to broaden our horizons and support and empower each other as women” junior Anoosh Taquir said. “I also really enjoyed meeting girls from all around the state with different beliefs and backgrounds.”

“Being that Girls State is an interactive mock government, I took advantage and ran for city positions as well as participated during the campaigns and caucuses which was a unique experience” junior Allauna Harrison said.

Additionally, AHS junior Allauna Harrison’s “city” or group of girls which accompanied her during the week were nominated “Best City” by judges at Girls State.

“I thoroughly enjoyed Girls State, it was a beneficial experience to spend time on a college campus and I also enjoyed how close I got with all the girls in my city” junior Allauna Harrison said.