Photo by Samantha Bengtson/Gonzales Tribune
Gonzales High School junior Addy Ramirez was selected to Girls State.
GONZALES — Gonzales High School student Adilenne “Addy” Ramirez has been named to Girls State after being approved by the Gonzales American Legion Auxiliary Unit 81.
“Girls State means that I get to represent my school,” Ramirez said. “Coming from such a small community, I think it’s a huge deal. People might think we’re just a simple school that doesn’t have a lot of resources, but that doesn’t have to stop you from succeeding.”
The top three junior girls with the highest grade point averages were interviewed and recommended by counselors. The interviewers asked Ramirez and two of her fellow classmates about themselves and recommended the candidates research the program beforehand.
“I feel like it’s such an honor to be chosen for Girls State, very few people get this opportunity,” Ramirez said. “I wanted to show that I have what it takes to be a Girls State and live that experience.”
She added, “I heard stories from past Girls State winners and they talked about how that experience helped them grow as a person, as a leader and be more aware politically.”
California Girls State is a leadership program of the American Legion Auxiliary designed to increase awareness and knowledge of governmental processes while learning about the duties, privileges, rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Delegates come away with a greater appreciation of the American Flag and of the sacrifices made by our veterans.
While attending Girls State, the ladies can make friends with other outstanding girls from all around the state and have a fun week they will remember for the rest of their lives. The program is sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary Department of California.
Ramirez said she was not the first choice for the program, but was the alternate. Ramirez is part of the Gonzales Youth Council, a council with high school and middle school students who represent each grade, seventh through 12th, as well as Somavia High School representatives who give a voice for the youth.
“They talk about issues they think they can solve in the community and the school,” Ramirez said. “They can effect school and city policies.”
When Ramirez started high school, she decided to join Interact Club, a community service club and one of her favorite clubs. She participates in photography club, and the Culinary Skills USA.
“I love volunteering in my community,” Ramirez said. “Never give up, keep working hard and the opportunities will open.”
