Plymouth High School upcoming senior, Nicole Keller, is one of two Indiana girls headed for Washington, D.C after being chosen from some 500 participants at the American Legion Auxiliary Hoosier Girls State program.
Only two participants from each state are chosen to attend Girls Nation.
Girls Nation, also sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary, provides experiences to show students how the federal government works. The weeklong activities include such things as holding mock legislature, submitting bills and resolutions, and participating in senate sessions. They will also visit the White House, Arlington National Cemetery, and monuments. Additionally, one day will be spent on Capitol Hill meeting with state senators and representatives.
The process to be chosen for Girls Nation involves many steps. Candidates are nominated by their immediate counselors, asked to submit a written essay, and then sit for an interview by a 14 person panel. The interview is divided into personal and political segments where the candidates speak to their goals and aspirations and demonstrate their knowledge of state legislatures. They must also be prepared to share what they feel are the major problems in the world. Although several girls were nominated, only seven were chosen for interviews.
Keller is very familiar with the legislative process after competing on the Lincoln Junior High and PHS Speech and Debate teams chartered by the Indiana High School Forensic Association. Her primary event is Congressional Debate and she competes in both United States Extemporaneous Speaking and Impromptu as well. She qualified for the last two years for the National Speech and Debate Tournament.
Keller said, “The things I learned competing on the Speech and Debate team gave me the skill sets to represent myself professionally and develop leadership skills. Competing in Congressional Debater gave me the opportunity to learn more about the world.”
PHS Speech and Debate team coaches David McKenzie and Daniel Tyree shared their thoughts on Keller’s perseverance. McKenzie said, “Nicole is very goal oriented and makes the most of opportunities to excel.” Tyree said, “She is very intelligent, hard-working, and a great debater. She will do a great job representing Indiana and Plymouth.”
In her essay written as a part of her nomination, Keller wrote,” I live my life through service by accumulating 515 service hours in my community over the course of three years; however, no number of hours can compare the feeling of purpose I have everyday serving the residents at a Catholic nursing home.” She continued, “The intensions of Girls Nation align with my future goals. I plan on applying to the United States Coast Guard Academy. If unable to serve in that capacity then I want to join an R.O.T.C. program.”
She shared her appreciation for the Weidner School of Inquiry instructors Grant Masson, who teaches government and history, and Jacob Singleton, who has been her economics teacher. “They gave me a good background.” Keller said. “I was able to practice interviewing with Kelsey Flynn (College and Career Center Coordinator).”
Keller is honing her leadership skills as Regional President of Business Professionals of America, President of the Key Club Chapter sponsored by the Kiwanis Club, and President of the Plymouth Mayor’s Youth Council.
Plymouth Mayor Mark Senter said, “Nicole is a leader that won’t be stopped. She is very intense and she is truly appreciated.”
Keller will be traveling to Washington, D.C. with the second Indiana student chosen, Madison Butler. Butler is also involved in the IHSFA and competes on the Fisher’s High School team.
Carol Anders Correspondent
