With the Louisiana Boys State program coming to an end, people involved in every level of the program have been reflecting on the lessons and takeaways from the week. Questions were asked to a citizen, JC, and SC to get their opinion on the week and LABS as a program.
Citizen Nate Bellanger (Pearl Parish and Orleans City) was asked what his main takeaways were from the week. He mainly spoke on his newfound appreciation of the government system. He said that learning the inner workings of the government’s processes helped him realize that the government is what the citizens make of it. When asked how Bellanger would bring his LABS experience to his home community, he said that he would make it a point to participate more in the student government and school board, in attempt to get the voice of the youth heard.
JC Josh or “Yaps” (Cane Parish and Franklin City) spoke about how the benefits of LABS are not physical things. While citizens work on performing different aspects of government, the true reward comes from the internal lessons of leadership, brotherhood, and teamwork. When asked why he chose to come back as a JC, he provided a sentiment about service. He said, “I just want to give back to the program that gave so much to me.”
SC Johnson “PJ” was asked similar questions to the first two. He similarly stated that the best result about LABS is the self improvement of its citizens. He said that he uses his knowledge from LABS in the real world; he works for the Office of Motor Vehicles in the Washington DC area, presenting issues and documents in congress. SC Johnson also made a point that people do not need to be interested in politics to reap the benefits of LABS. The leadership and teamwork demands of the program can apply to anyone, no matter their interests.
Overall, people across every rank in LABS voiced their appreciation for the program. Everyone involved agrees that it is a fun, unique, experience that will affect every day for the rest of their lives.
– Jude LeBoeuf: Citizen Author, Editor in Chief
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