Alexa Casares

World Scholars High School - Edinburg.

Submitted: April 2019

When adults hear of high school students going to the Capitol, they usually associate it with the concept of “They will be touring” or “They will be attending an event that will be going on” not “They will be lobbying for a bill” or “They will be meeting with Representatives to promote for the betterment of the education system” especially if they are from South Texas. 

This trip as we were told was about business, gaining experience, and  ensuring that we were able to acquire all the support possible for HB 1640, however that was not all the other STYC members and me learned in this trip. 

Many might think that the hardest part of this trip was speaking to representatives or finding our way around the Capitol, but in fact it was walking around  360,000 square feet (not including the capitols extensions) with the wrong shoe wear, trying not to get my heels unstuck in the elevator door gap, and sometimes being treated unprofessionally by adults we meet with. 

As I reflect on this trip that happened nearly a week ago I still cannot wrap my mind around all we were able to accomplish. From being treated like family by Representative J.M. Lozano to taking a picture with Representative James Tallerico. Our trip to the Texas State Captiol was filled with uncontrollable laughter, great food, and most importantly desire amongst us as an organization to help the future high schoolers to come. 

I will always remember all the great memories created throughout our trip and I hope to continue making a difference for the public education system in Texas even after I graduate high school.