RHS’ Addie Scruggs attends Girls State

Russellville High School student Addie Scruggs recently had the opportunity to attend Alabama Girls State at the University of Alabama.

Girls State is a youth leadership program sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary. Like Boys State, Girls State teaches young students about the United States of America’s government and the political process candidates go through.

“I didn’t realize how big of an impact it would have on me until after I left,” Scruggs said.

During the week, Scruggs was able to listen to prominent speakers, participate in workshops and be active in the formation of a mock government complete with debates and speeches.

“It forced me out of my bubble,” she said. “I learned that we were all just a bunch of girls with the same motives for after high school.”

Scruggs ran for a position on the “State Board of Education” for her group at Girls State. Delivering her speech was a scary moment for Scruggs, but she said she found camaraderie in that they were all scared together in this new experience.

Even though Scruggs went into the week nervous, she said she ended up learning a lot and enjoying her time there.

“I learned how to make my own decisions when it comes to government and politics rather than just going along with my parents’ ideas and views,” Scruggs said.

Scruggs said it has been her goal to pursue pharmacy after high school but her experience at Girls State has her considering a possible future in politics or government.