The Impact of MGA


By: Christopher Fowler         

            Whether you have been a part of MGA for four years or just one year, we can all agree that this experience has made a huge impact on us, and rightfully so, we have made a huge impact on MGA. For some underclassmen legislators, meetings seem to last forever, and some begin to question why they decided to come to Richmond in the first place. Yet somehow in the craziness of debating and passing bills in underclassmen legislature, the experience grows on them, and they cannot wait to return the following year. For seniors, the final weekend at MGA flies by and is very bittersweet.
            Our Youth Governor, Mark Johnston, said in a press conference today, that he believes his “people skills” have benefited the most from his MGA experience, and he hopes to translate these new crafts into his higher education. Commonwealth Senator Ryan Wright noted that his MGA experience has allowed him to interact with new people, and he hopes that he has inspired others to stand up and have the confidence to give their own input on particular issues. First year MGA legislators Josh Mortenson and Natalie Kidd both stated that although they initially had no desire to pursue a career in politics, MGA has opened their eyes to the hype of political science and the many career opportunities available in politics. Old Dominion Delegate Casey Teter also mentioned the many political science career opportunities which MGA has enlightened him to pursue.

            Finally, Old Dominion Delegate James Delaney said MGA has not only taught him the law making process, but it has also taught him how to respect other people’s opinions and how to keep an open mind when forming an opinion. James now understands how people from different geographical regions and lifestyles can have completely different outlooks on all topics, not just political ones. I feel confident in saying everyone’s MGA experience has been a positive one, and hopefully we have all learned valuable life lessons that will propel us into our educational careers and other future endeavors.

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