Submission Guidelines

  1. Be Authentic!

Of course, Chatgtp (or other AI models) can help to frame your ideas, but in the end, WE CAN TELL. The point of offering youth perspectives is for them to be authentic, real perspectives of why YOU think a bill should be enacted, or why a current bill affects you. Authenticity creates impact.

2. Research the bill! (or choose off experince)

Writing a vague statement will not offer a unique reason for legislator to listen to you. Make sure to read what the bill entails, and provide specific, tangible outcomes and/or experiences.

3. Don’t Overthink it

In the end, overthinking your testimonial will make it less impactful. This is to offer YOUR perspective! It also does not have to be long. Make it as short as possible while still conveying the necessary experience, but legislative staff don’t want to read an essay. Make sure to check grammar and do NOT use profanity or target a legislator’s background/personality. You can mention a name.

4. Do not make a politically charged testimonial

STAND is a policy over party organization, focusing on nonpartisan advocacy for issues students are passionate about. Do not make your testimonial target a party. Instead, talk about how policies affect your life, or how you want to see change in your community. There is no necessary political statements in that mission. Also, sure to check grammar and do NOT use profanity or address a legislator’s background/personality. You can mention a name.