Written by Cassandra Gunderson
My name is Cassie Gunderson and I am a second-year YIG member from the Manitowoc Delegation in my senior year of high school.
I attended the Conference on National Affairs last year after my first year in the program, which completely changed my perspective on YIG. It is extremely important to try and meet as many new people as possible in YIG, and CONA essentially forces you to do that. My passion for YIG was reinvigorated after getting to know multitudes of interesting people within our program and all across the United States.
After my CONA experience, I decided to leave the Supreme Court branch and join the legislative branch for this year, where I am in the Phillips Assembly. CONA really motivated me to try new things, which is why I am switching to a different program area.
Even though this is technically my first and last year in the legislative branch, I am so excited and ready to debate! My advice to anyone who is nervous about raising their placard would be to speak on bills you’re really passionate about, and the words will come naturally.
If you’re interested in going to CONA, applications open after PreGov and are given priority consideration, so don’t hesitate to apply! It is truly an unforgettable experience.