Along with juggling homework, debate and forensics, Tim Han, freshman, took on the roll as Speaker of the Blue Assembly at the 52nd Annual Wisconsin Youth Model Government Convention in Madison on Feb. 20-22. This is his third year in Youth in Government and he ran against two other upperclassman for the position. “It really was a great blessing to be able to help facilitate great debate. We spent 45 minutes at one point arguing a very basic point so the debate can really get heated, but it’s a lot of fun,” Han said.

Youth in Government (YIG)  is a nationwide program offered through the YMCA to students from grades 7 through 12. This organization provides kids with the opportunity to study the lawmaking process by actively participating in state government. “YIG gives a unique approach to public speaking, it gives students a voice,” Han said.

The YMCA Youth in Government program currently functions in 38 states and Washington, DC.

Additionally, Han was chosen to represent Wisconsin for a week at the National Youth Model Government Convention in North Carolina in June. While in North Carolina, Han will play the role as a faux legislator among hundreds of other students from all over the country. “It should be a great experience and I’m looking forward to the chance more so than worrying about it,” Han said.

With that, Han added, “The opportunity to brush shoulders with the people who shape the future of this state really is priceless. For anyone thinking about going into government, adding something for a college resume, or even just a club to join to eat up free time, YIG is the program for you.”