High school girls who are passionate about government and are interested in learning more about the intricate world of public policy are encouraged to apply for a unique internship program, Girls Rock the Capitol (GRTC). The program gives girls in New Hampshire and Vermont an opportunity to gain first-hand experience in the state legislative process- from attending committee meetings and full House sessions, to hearing debates and discussions about bills and laws directly affecting their state.
“This truly is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for girls to learn about government and develop confidence and leadership skills along the way,” says program coordinator Melissa Mason. As part of the program, girls will spend six days between January and June shadowing female legislators at the state capitol.
Sponsored by Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains with support from the New Hampshire Women’s Foundation, GRTC has been offered to Vermont and New Hampshire girls for well over a decade. “This truly is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for girls to learn about government and develop confidence and leadership skills along the way,” says program coordinator Melissa Mason. As part of the program, girls will spend six days between January and June shadowing female legislators at the state capitol.
Ashley Morrill, a student at Lakes Region Union High School in Orleans, VT, said her time spent at her state capitol last year was a life-changing experience. “I saw how everyday people can help change the course of legislation through testifying and giving feedback,” Morrill said. “Vermont is a small state that has strong connections with its people, and that was very apparent through this process.”
Morrill’s experiences with Girls Rock the Capitol also inspired her enroll in an AP Government and Politics course this year, and she hopes to return to the Vermont State House again in 2016.