By Harris Carroll
Walking into the NC Youth and Government Conference for the first time is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. From early mornings to packed schedules, there are a lot of things first-year delegates don’t fully understand until they experience it for themselves. Looking back, upperclassmen all seem to agree on a few key things they really wish they had known.
YAG is a professional conference, so business attire is required, but comfort matters just as much. Delegates walk far more than expected between hotels, the Raleigh Convention Center, and food stops like Starbucks. On top of that, it’s usually cold both outside and inside the buildings. Wearing layers and comfortable dress shoes makes a huge difference when you’re on your feet all day.
Another surprise is how long the days feel. Program sessions can last for hours with very few breaks. Lunch often feels rushed, and evening activities keep everything going even longer. A lot of time is spent sitting in conference rooms listening to debate, which is one of the best ways to learn procedure and strategy. Eating when you can and staying hydrated helps more than you’d think, so keeping snacks and a water bottle in your YAG bag is essential.
YAG etiquette is also something many people learn the hard way. Knowing how to properly speak to the chair and follow basic parliamentary procedure makes the experience way less intimidating. Debates can be tough, but practicing quick thinking and defense questioning helps build confidence.
Finally, be open to meeting new people. Some of the best memories come from talking to delegates outside your own school. Everyone is nervous their first year, so putting yourself out there is worth it – and often what makes YAG truly unforgettable.
