Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the North Dakota Association of Student Councils (NDASC) convention with a few other students from WHS. This was a three-day gathering of over 1,200 students from Student Councils around the state. Over the course of three days, our experience was full of student campaigns for state office, guest speakers, and friendship.

Throughout the convention, an election for the new state officers took place. Anna Scallon, a junior at WHS, ran for the position of Class A Representative. We spent our first day campaigning for her, as well as listening to other students’ campaign platforms. As a voting delegate, I was able to participate in a small ‘government’ by voting for next year’s state officers. It was a great opportunity for high schoolers to experience a new aspect of the real world.

During the conference we listened to many guest speakers, all of which were informative and educational in their own unique way. Both Senators, John Hoeven and Heidi Heitkamp, spoke to us, as well as Doug Burgum, North Dakota’s Governor. Burgum emphasized the importance of lifetime success. He reminded the students of North Dakota that four key elements to success are to “believe in yourself, [have] gratitude, curiosity, and support each other.” Looking back on his high school experience, the governor said “I believed in myself. I would say that was my biggest success.” Overall, Burgum’s speech encouraged students to work toward a bright future by building a foundation for success in high school.

Lastly, my experience at the NDASC convention was full of social interaction. With over 1,200 students in attendance, my friends from WHS and I were able to meet a variety of Student Council members from other areas of North Dakota. This was a fun way to make new friends while simultaneously strengthening other friendships I already had.

I’m glad I was able to go to the convention because it was a valuable learning experience. I learned how to be a better leader within my school as a member of Student Council, as well as how to prepare for a lifetime of success. I would encourage anyone who is interested in Student Council to join; it’s an exciting and rewarding club.