1. The feeling of winning your first debate
Everyone gets that nervous rush of energy, wobbly knees, and excitement before their first debate, but what makes it all the while, is winning that debate. Whether it be at a One Day Convention, or an Overnight Convention, all eyes are on you. But remember, you are speaking for something you feel so very passionate about; something that JSA encourages in their missions statement.
“All for… All against…. All abstentions…” The moderator announces, when suddenly, you win your very first debate. This feeling radiates a sense of confidence from the speaker, and a boost in confidence as well. The feeling of winning your first debate means that you successfully persuaded your audience to side with you, and reassures you that your opinion matters not only to you but to the people around you. Never stop believing, never stop speaking, and never ever stop reaching for that majority vote on your side.
2. The excitement you feel when you meet an Elected Official
Let’s set the scene; it’s your first overnight convention, you're standing among a crowd of active people, when a friendly face walks up to you and greets you with, “Hello, I’m the Lieutenant Governor of the Northeast State, what’s your name?” Yes, you indeed just met the Lieutenant Governor of the national, student-run democracy. These Elected Officials not only lead the Northeast but inspire many to become more involved in this student-run organization. These members of JSA are wise and intellectual, and above all, some of the kindest people you will ever meet while in JSA.
3. Your first time earning a “Best Speaker” gavel.
So you’ve just won your very first debate, and now you are sitting in closing session, with those around you that filled out “Best Speaker Ballots” at the conclusion of your debate. Your heart is beating, “Did I sound okay? Was I loud enough? Did I appeal to the audience well?” Thoughts flood your mind. Then, you hear your debate block, “Resolved….. Best speaker goes to….!” And yes, the answers to all of those questions were, “Yes!” Yet again, another confidence booster! Best Speaker gavels are an award to show how well you spoke, in your debate that you spoke so passionately about, so show it and be proud!
4. The passion for politics and current events that develop.
No doubt, once you join JSA, you will become more socially and politically aware. What starts out just to be a club meeting after school turns into so much more; conventions, cabinet meetings, elections, debate, the list is neverending! JSA has encouraged thousands of its members to get out, get involved in their local politics, and, “Be the People”. Students involved in JSA often leave high school with a strong passion for involvement and civic engagement to carry out through the rest of their lives and through the people the encounter along the way.
5. Your JSA family
Not only is your local chapter one big fun family, but so is your region, your state, and the cabinet you are involved in. Whether you work in the Gubernatorial Cabinet, or the Lieutenant Gubernatorial Cabinet, down to the Mayoral Cabinet, the instant you meet at Cabinet Retreat, you become a family for that year and beyond. Cabinet and chapter bonding makes your compassion for the club grow, encouraging more students to attend overnight conventions, and allows you to work in such close proximity with your closest of friends.
6. The importance of Facebook
In JSA? Don’t have a Facebook? Well, might as well get on that! New forms, polls, news, and so much more is posted weekly in the various Facebook groups! Facebook is the primary source of communication between chapters, cabinet members, and elected officials. Everything you could possibly need is always on facebook! Don’t miss out!
7. How “Student Run” it really is.
Starting at the chapter level, to the national level, JSA has always promoted democracy, trust, and responsibility within its members. The fascinating this about the organization is that if you desired a change, you can make that change! JSA offers students to be the change that they want to see, with a great responsibility and pride to carry out all duties to the best of your ability!
8. Your very first overnight convention.
You step off the bus in Washington, D.C., and before you is a lobby full of foreign JSA members. Little do you know, these people will shape your future in JSA. Your first overnight convention is a whirlwind of pop culture, controversial debates, laughter and fun. In fact, your first overnight convention is where most people are inspired to further their involvement in JSA and take it to the next step!
9. Post-convention depression.
Lastly, and sadly, the moment you say goodbye to your JSA family, you now must wait until the next convention to meet again with your friend from New York of Massachusetts. But have no fear! You have several stories to tell, pictures to share, and new things you have learned all to benefit you in the future. Remember, it is not a “goodbye,” but simply a “see you later”
