Christian Peterson: Reporter@riverbendnews.org
Trey Galbraith is about to enter his senior year at Lafayette High School. He is well known for his skills in golf, but what many do not know is he is becoming a name known throughout the Florida government. Galbraith wasn't always an active member of the 4-H club. He participated for a few years when he was young, but he focused on other things for most of his childhood. However, as he enters adulthood, he has rediscovered his love for the group. “The opportunities that 4-H provides, such as taking a trip to the Capitol, staying in college dorms and the networking, as well as exposure to the community and state leaders interested me,” Galbraith said. Since rediscovering his interest, he has been an active member for two years. “For a while now, the career path I wanted was focused on becoming a lawyer or holding a political office.” Galbraith saw his opportunity for this by working with 4-H. He was invited to be a 4-H Senator, which meant he was allowed to experience what it is like to work in state government. The experience took place over the course of five days, where students participated in a mock style experience at the Capitol in Tallahassee.
“The purpose of Florida 4-H Legislature is to provide an experience that prepares 4-H members for leadership in the American democratic process. Each participant learns, practices and defends the theory and process of representing citizens and making public policy,” the Florida 4-H website reads. This is exactly what Galbraith experienced. “It was very cool to sit in the seats of our state's elected officials. To see what they undergo during each session is inspiring,” Galbraith said. He more than enjoyed the experience; of course, there were hard parts. “The hardest part was walking in the heat of the day to and from the Capitol in business formal dress,” he admitted. “It was extremely hot!” Of course, there were good parts too. “The best part of my week at the Capitol was meeting new friends, and talking into the microphone during debates,” he said. “Also, just taking in the moment when you step into the House and Senate floors is very exciting and overwhelming.”
On top of all that, Galbraith, of course, walked away with new knowledge. “My biggest takeaway from this experience is that I could see myself becoming a Senator or House member in the future,” Galbraith said. “I love the debate and decision making that goes into deciding legislation, and I have a new found appreciation for our elected officials representing communities across Florida.” By the end of the week, students are nominated by a 4-H State Committee member or extension agent to be named their specific legislative role of the year. After that, 4-H students attending vote on the nominations. Galbraith walked away with the title of 4-H Senator of the Year. “I would say that the award gives me confidence in my social skills and ability to make new friends, as well as to perform tasks effectively when I need to, such as getting a point across in a respectful but firm manner when in dissent with another,” he stated. Galbraith's future doesn't end here, however, as he believes the experience has provided him with many useful opportunities, and has allowed him to network and create a plethora of new friends and colleagues. “I believe, one day I will sit in the seat of one of our current elected officials, passing bills and voting on legislation just as they do now,” Galbraith said. He couldn't have done it alone, though. Galbraith shared a tremendous amount of gratefulness for his extension agent, Shawn Jackson. “I highly recommend any kids who are interested to attend and experience the internals of the Capitol.”