Journalist: John Manigah (ORU)
It is the first day of the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature (O.I.L.), and zero-star delegates begin to roam the halls of the Capitol. But how is a zero-star delegate supposed to navigate a successful O.I.L. session? Luckily, Trevor Friesen, a five-star senator; Cannon Mitchell, an 8-star House speaker, and Audrey Bishop, a ten-star Governor’s Chief of Staff, give their expert advice. These are ten expert tips for Zero-Star Delegates!
1. Homework done before you leave:
Complete schoolwork ahead of time to ensure you can be fully present and eliminate added layers of stress. Complete as much as possible before the session to ensure you can have full focus!
2. Energy drinks and coffee:
Utilizing energy drinks or having a cup of coffee can go a long way in helping you maintain alertness and stay engaged. Do not be caught snoozing during session!
3. Never stayed glued to your seat; Keep meeting new people:
After each bill is presented, don’t just sit, stand up and talk to someone new after each presentation. Avoid caucusing with the same group each time and network with delegates who hold different viewpoints to diversify your perspective and understanding.
4. Get good at remembering LAST names:
Remembering people’s last name is crucial for effective networking and provides a social advantage. Focus on memorizing the last names specifically, as they are what will be used during the session.
5. Avoid verbatim speech reading:
Reading speeches word-for-word makes people sleepy and may make you appear less knowledgeable. Instead, use bullet points in speeches and engage the audience by making eye contact, using your hands, or walking around while speaking.
6. Take advantage of organizational opportunities:
From helping set up meals to serving on election commissions, O.I.L. offers numerous opportunities for involvement. These are all opportunities to help serve, grow in leadership, and get plugged into the organization, should you desire to pursue a leadership position in the future.
7. Vote with a backbone:
“Dont vote just for the sake of voting, vote how you believe,” said Senator Friesen. Vote based on your personal beliefs, even if it means you’re in the minority. This exemplifies political courage.
8. Display your expertise:
If you have a background and are a subject matter expert on a bill, ensure that people are aware of your expertise. Take the lead when bills within your area of expertise are presented and establish credibility by sharing your relevant work experience on the topic
9. Ask more questions than you answer:
Listening more will help you develop a more solid and fireproof stance on an issue, as well as make you more persuasive when you speak.
10. Put in genuine effort
Your passion and genuineness set you apart in this competition. Coming prepared and putting in real effort is how you will make the most of this experience and succeed, regardless of the outcome.