Journalist: Colin Udall (OSU)
Grace Standridge (SE) started her Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature (O.I.L.) journey as a
member of the House of Representatives. Now, as a four-star member, Standridge is participating
in the press competition for the second time. She sat down for an interview to discuss the
differences between the competitions, her experiences, and how O.I.L. has shaped her personal
growth.
When asked what got her into O.I.L. in the first place, Standridge said, “What got me into O.I.L.
was an interest in political science that I gained during a political science class.” She added, “My
first delegation chair presented O.I.L. to us to gain new members.”
Asked how her experiences in the House and the press competition differed, Standridge said,
“Well, they are both kind of stressful in their own ways, but also fun.” She also said, “It is the
sort of stress that makes you wonder a little why you did this in the first place.” She concluded,
“…but then afterwards you’re like, that was kind of fun.”
Finally, Standridge was asked about her future aspirations in relation to O.I.L. “The House is
very loud and chaotic; there is a lot of talking, and I have never been much of a people person,”
she said. “Since joining the House, I learned how to get more out of my shell and talk to people. I
also gained a better understanding of legislation, which is very useful in life.”
Regarding the press competition, Standridge said, “I do experience more stress with the press
competition than I do in the House, but it is not really a bad thing. I have discovered through the
press a genuine enjoyment for journalism and interviewing people.”
Standridge concluded the interview by sharing her aspiration to teach history and noted that her
time in O.I.L. will help her achieve her goals, even if indirectly.