In Her Own Words: Lafayette Student Enjoys 'Once-in-a-Lifetime' Experience at Missouri Girls State

Pushpa Voleti, a rising Lafayette High senior, was one of 18 Rockwood School District students to participate in this year’s Missouri Girls State program, which was held June 21-28 on the campus of Lindenwood University. During the program, participants utilize the democratic system as a basis to form their own state, teaching the value of public office, the strength of the individual voice and the importance of voting. Participants hear from notable speakers throughout the week and hold elections to choose representatives at the city, county and state level. Voleti was one of five representatives elected for her city and one of nine Rockwood students to earn elected office at Girls State.

Here are some of Voleti's reflections from her Girls State experience. 

By Pushpa Voleti, Lafayette student

The first time I heard about the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Missouri Girls State (MGS) was through a simple, old-school piece of paper — mail. I almost threw it away, unsure what it really was or why it mattered. It wasn’t until my dad insisted I apply that I gave it any real thought. Looking back, I am so glad I applied because that letter didn’t just offer me a week — it offered me a transformation.

As the first day of MGS approached, I was nervous. I’d never lived in a dorm before, never shared a space with strangers and had no idea what to expect. But the moment I arrived, the energy was electric. Walking into Lindenwood’s theater for the first assembly, the ground shook with chants and screams — I’d never felt anything like it.

At first, I was overwhelmed. So many opportunities and positions — I didn’t know where to start. But when I mentioned running for House of Representatives, every single girl in my city — Stephens, the best city there is — rallied behind me. Their support gave me the push I needed. Campaigning, giving speeches and standing before my peers filled me with unexpected adrenaline and joy. Winning was incredible — but what came after mattered more.

Debating bills, listening to other perspectives, being inspired by activists and real-world leaders and revising my own legislation taught me that leadership isn’t about a title. It’s about showing up, staying humble and using your voice to lift others. Being able to write legislation and work in a mock government illuminated just how much I could contribute to my democracy.

The early morning breakfasts and late-night dinners — walking through a massive heat wave — were exhausting but oddly unifying. At the joint assemblies, we watched hilarious daily “news reports” where delegates were sued, accused of fraud and everything in between. It was ridiculous and chaotic, and I loved every second of it.

Midweek, we visited the Missouri State Capitol, and I’ll never forget standing under that towering dome, realizing that democracy isn’t some distant idea — it’s us. I realized I wasn’t just learning government — I was living it.

But the best part? The sisterhood. I met some of the most passionate, kind, brilliant girls I’ve ever known. We weren’t competing — we were supporting. Whether brushing our teeth at midnight, crying with happiness or hyping each other up for elections, we became more than friends. We became a unit.

From nearly tossing out the application to walking away with friendships, memories and a renewed sense of purpose, ALA Missouri Girls State didn’t just change my summer.

It changed me.

I walked in as a student, but I walked out as a leader.

If you ever get the chance to apply for Missouri Girls State — or Boys State — I strongly urge you to take it. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.