The Rosie in Action series shares the stories of women and young adults in our community, making a difference in their organizations, serving on boards, living into their passions, and positively impacting the world around them. Elif Benzer is a senior at Greenwood Laboratory School with a passion for civic engagement and was eager to share more about her experience at Missouri Girls State with the Rosie network. Keep reading to hear what Elif had to share about finding her way to Girls State, ways she plans to bring her experience back to her school, and her biggest pieces of inspiration for Rosies!
Who is Elif?
I am a multi-sport high school student athlete and a district honor level clarinet player. I would like to pursue a psychology degree in college and intend to be on the pre-med track, and I hope to become a psychiatrist. Currently, I have four offers to play basketball at the college level and will be making my commitment to one of those colleges soon. I was born in South Dakota, and I have been living in Springfield for 10 years. Basketball is my main sport, but I also love playing volleyball. I have always given back to the Springfield community through service to a variety of nonprofits that include Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield and Isabel’s House. I am a proud graduate of Leadership Springfield Academy Class 35. My Clifton Strengths are Competition, Relator, Consistency, Significance, and Strategic. Fun fact about me: I love Sabrina Carpenter and hope to see her at a concert someday.
What is Girls State, and how did you get involved? Tell us about the journey that got you to Jefferson City this summer!
Girls State is a week-long, hands-on leadership program sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary that teaches high school girls about government and civic engagement. Participants, typically rising seniors, live as citizens in a simulated state government where they run for office, campaign, vote in mock elections, and learn about the responsibilities of citizenship. The program aims to educate young women about the functioning of their state and local government and inspire them to be responsible adult citizens. I was nominated by my Greenwood Laboratory School counselor to represent my school. I submitted my application and was interviewed by a representative of the American Legion Auxiliary. Then, I was selected to represent Greenwood Laboratory School in St Louis at Lindenwood University.
What was it like to be elected a Representative at Girls State? What did it mean to you?
It was one of the greatest experiences for me. Being given the opportunity to travel to the state capital and pass a mock bill was definitely a highlight for me. In addition, I met so many girls across Missouri, and we shared so many great opportunities together to learn and grow as responsible citizens.
What’s the biggest lesson you learned through your experience?
I learned that everyone has a voice in government, and to always find ways to be involved in making a difference!
How have you brought your Girls State experience back to school or other activities you’re involved in?
By being more interested and involved in community and government activities. I follow local issues and opportunities even more since my time at Girls State. I got reelected this year again to serve as a school representative at Greenwood Laboratory school. In addition, I recently got selected to be part of CHAMPS (Champion Humans and Mentoring Partnerships for Success).
Why do you think programs like Girls State are important for young women?
It gives them an opportunity to see that they have a voice in government, and they can be leaders in their communities.
Share your favorite piece of advice or inspiration you’ve received with the Rosie network.
The key to success is compromise and compassion – especially working in the government.
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Thank you for sharing your story and investing in yourself as a student leader, Elif!
Do you have a story you’d like to share? A woman you’d like to celebrate? A recent accomplishment, board appointment, or career milestone you or someone you know has experienced? Let us know by submitting an Empowered Women Empower Women celebration!
