Girls State sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Department of California
California Girls State is a leadership program of the American Legion Auxiliary designed to increase awareness and knowledge of governmental processes while learning about the duties, privileges, rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Delegates come away with a greater appreciation of the American Flag and of the sacrifices made by our veterans. While at Girls State, they make friends with outstanding girls from around the state and have a fun week they’ll remember for the rest of their lives. California Girls State is a program sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Department of California.
Nearly 300 California Units work all year to raise money in order to provide scholarships to students to attend Girls State. Local Units recruit from area high schools and select young women just completing their Junior year to attend the summer session.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Applicants must be young women currently enrolled in 11th grade at a public or private school. Participants must plan to complete high school and should rank in the upper half of their class. Selection is based on outstanding leadership, academic achievement, interest in community and government, as well as character, honesty, and enthusiasm. Students must be ranked in the upper half of their class.
Candidates must apply through their school’s designated faculty member responsible for coordinating the Girls State program at their school. Direct applications to Girls State are not accepted.
Applicants must be young women currently enrolled in 11th grade at a public or private school.
Participation provides young women with avenues to develop or enhance self-confidence, and teaches young women how to better lead, and to be a team player. Girls State offers a deeper understanding of governmental processes, but is not intended as a forum for political philosophy discussion.
Once the student has gone through the process of completing the application for Girls State and the associated paperwork, college applications will be somewhat easier to complete. Being able to describe yourself as a Girls State Citizen on a college application is a definite plus.
Delegates can apply for the Samsung Scholarship prior to the Girls State session. Girls State delegates with military family backgrounds may access scholarship opportunities through local veterans or military organizations. All delegates may apply for scholarships from business, civic, and nonprofit organizations.
Previous experience in government or student leadership is not required for application. Leadership experience can be beneficial but is not essential for eligibility.