New Beginnings

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For the past three years, I have attended MGA, and every year I have done something different. My first year, I was a delegate in the House of Reps. Although listening to debates was fun, I didn't feel comfortable in that environment. So the following year, I chose something new. I was an executive representative. I got the chance to speak with real legislators, and they talked to us about how to balance a budget for the state of Virginia. I know this may sound boring, but it was really interesting. We even got the chance to balance out the public safety budget for the state of Virginia. What made it even better, they actually took our calculations and advice to heart. Although I loved that position, I decided to try something new for my senior year. I became a reporter. After working with great people for the past two days, I have learned to appreciate journalism and how important it is to our society. People would have no idea what's going on in the world unless the press released the information. At 2011 MGA, I got the chance to express myself, and inform the readers of what is really going on around them. I made interviews, talked to youth legislators on certain bills, and have made great friends. All of these things has really opened my eyes to the world around me. After this weekend, I have found that there are many possibilities in the world of writing, and I plan to continue with writing, and making my voice known to the people. By: Rhavin Cooley, Goochland YMCA

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