This virtual program for high school junior and senior girls is designed to elevate the next generation to pursue careers in public service and elected office. Over seven two-hour sessions, students will engage in interactive and inspiring activities with exposure to women legislators, career options, and the inner workings of a political campaign. The program will culminate in a group competition to create a realistic campaign simulation.
Purpose
Gov Trek is designed to address the paucity of women in the halls of power and help young women consider careers in public service and elected office. One of the priorities of AAUW’s core mission is to inform and empower girls in an effort to close the gender gap in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Cost
The program is free for students to attend.
Program Format
Gov Trek is conducted online in seven two-hour Saturday sessions, each with a different focus related to careers in politics, public service and the inner workings of a political campaign. Students learn from speakers and panelists, including current and former legislators, staffers, and consultants, and then work in groups with an adult facilitator to complete activities such as writing speeches or designing political messages. The final project to create a campaign simulation is a team competition judged by VIP industry judges with awards in several categories.
Gov Trek is designed, delivered, and administered by AAUW California. Student recruitment is managed by the 100+ local AAUW branches across California.
2024 Gov Trek Schedule
All sessions will be held online via Zoom
Students met for seven consecutive Saturday sessions (10 am-noon)
Information Session (For students & branch leaders)
An information session was held where potential participants could learn more about Gov Trek, the benefits, requirements, and differentiating factors that make this free leadership education program the one to attend!
2023 – 2024 Campaign Competition
Grand Prize Winning Team
Vote Eliana – Official Campaign Project
Category Winners
| Best Candidate Speech | Team # Gov Trek Girlies |
| Best Campaign Management | Team #Melissa 4 Riverside |
| Best Voter Outreach Plan | Team # Vote Delisha |
| Best Campaign Ad & Flyer | Team #Abby For Senate |
| Grand Prize Team | Team # Vote Eliana |
Contact
Shauna Oenning Ruyle, AAUW California
Gov Trek Program Director
govtrek@aauw-ca.org