State of State is a student-run organization that strives to spark dialogue throughout the year about Penn State’s most pressing issues culminating in an early spring conference. The conference consists of student speakers as well as faculty members and alumni. Last year, I was fortunate enough to be selected as a student speaker. This may have been one of the toughest challenges I have faced thus far, but it was undoubtedly the most rewarding. I stood on that stage in solidarity with every student that had more than a couple bad days or a few tears shed. I desperately wanted to speak on the behalf of those individuals whose words and cries for help seemed to be trapped by mouths sewn shut. Although I may have cried in front of hundreds of people, while shaking uncontrollably, I will never regret speaking up and speaking out for my friends and family affected by mental health disorders. State of State gave me this opportunity, which I am truly grateful for and will always remember from my time here at Penn State.
With that being said, this February, State of State will “Explore the Glory” by discussing these four topics: Inclusivity and Identity, Student Cultures, Tradition and Change and the Value of Your Degree. If you would like to share your story, I encourage you to apply to be a student speaker for State of State’s 2016 Conference. The application can be found at on their website. In order to apply, you must prepare a 5-10 minute speech and discussion. Applications are due on Sunday, Nov. 22, by 5:00 p.m. After the application window has closed, selected students will be asked to audition by giving a short pitch of their topic to the executive committee.
It’s not every day one is offered the chance to have their voice heard. Please consider applying in order to affect change in the Penn State community. Even if you do not want to be a student speaker, make sure to attend the event on Feb. 13, 2016!
If you would like to learn more about State of State and its mission, please follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram! You can also watch last year’s speakers at www.psustateofstate.com.