Natalie Paniagua represented Colton American Legion Auxiliary Unit 155 at the 75th Girls State Session that took place from June 25th – June 30th, at Claremont Mckenna College.
The Girls State program happens once a year during the summer and gathers young women from all around and allows them to honor veterans and gives them to enhance their experience in political science. She joined approximately 500 Delegates in a life changing week developing leadership skills, learning about state and local government processes, and interacting with the other Delegates.
Natalie says that her experience with the Girls State Program was like no other. She explained, “I have never met a group of young, strong women who are willing to help other women because we live in a society today where women are so quick to bring each other down by other people’s opinions. SO it was really a good experience to have that type of support from like 600 other young women.”
Natalia is at the young age of 17 years old and is currently a senior student at Colton High School in this new school year. She stated that it was a great experience and will be providing feedback to Unit 155 at a later date.
Natalie started this journey not knowing exactly what she was getting into. She stated, “I’m glad I got myself into this whole experience because it has been a life changing experience.”
On April 22nd, a Tea Orientation was held for the 48 Delegates selected to represent the Auxiliary Units from the surrounding area in District 25. The Delegates were able to meet, be informed of what would be experienced while attending Girls State, and enjoy a great lunch that was provided by the Auxiliary Units.
As it is her final year at Colton High School, Natalie plans on attending UCLA or USC to follow her dreams for political science. She plans on going for her degree and becoming a lawyer in either forensics or criminal justice. Her journey is only just beginning and it looks bright from here.
Congratulations Natalie!