"MGA’s Impact on an Individual" By: Kateleigh Wampler

     What impact does MGA actually have on people once they leave? Well to answer that question the alumni of MGA were willing to answer some questions. These questions help others see how much of an impact MGA really is. First, Taylor Davis makes the statement that her “confidence in defending her decisions and considering others opinions” is easier because of MGA by the way she speaks with emotion about the topic being discussed. She also finds it easier to make friends and spark up a conversation with them. She was shy as a child, but MGA has made her confident to speak her mind about what she is passionate about. Also, Spencer Snyder was into politics and government as a child, and with the help of MGA he loves to come back and work with everyone else so that they may enjoy their experience. He feels like MGA has made him comfortable with speaking to stranger in public places. Stacey Reibold feels that when someone puts “respect and passion [in whatever one does] you get a better work environment.”  She contemplates that speaking with confidence “creates a safe environment for your thoughts” and helps you make better connections with other people. By going to MGA, she believes that it gives others a great opportunity to make new friendships and make better connections with people while they are in high school. Riley Ford has always had an interest in government from the very start. She came to MGA all four years of high school and was accepted into CONA for three years. She feels like without her coming to MGA, she would have never been this passionate about government. She considers MGA to be a very good place to better someone’s public speaking and helps with a platform for speaking. Lastly, Hannah Kilgore went to MGA for two years and feels like she has learned to get out of her comfort zone and speak what is on her mind. She also agrees that it is easier to make new friends and help with starting a conversation with them.

            All of these people, Taylor Davis, Spencer Snyder, Stacey Riebold, Riley Ford, and Hannah Kilgore, agree that MGA has made them comfortable with talking to other people, getting out of their comfort zone, and thinks that MGA helps great with public speaking. Some of these alumni are going on to pursue a political career in college. They are willing to take time out of their schedule to come help everyone have a great experience at MGA. Thank you to all the MGA staff and the alumni!