Journalist: Gabby Burke (OSU)
Paige Kreis (ECU), is a one-star delegate from East Central University who competes in both the House of Representatives and Moot Court. They also serve as delegation chair for ECU. Their journey began on uncertain footing but has since gained momentum.
Kreis said they discovered OIL through a professor. “My professor told me she had a one-credit-hour class that fit into my schedule,” Kreis said. “The first class was just me and my professor because our delegation is very small.” Despite the small size, Kreis has taken on a leadership role as delegation chair.
When asked about their favorite part of OIL, Kreis pointed to the people. “At OIL there are all different kinds of people,” they said. “Last year there was a bill about probate, and I had never thought about things like wills and death certificates.” While they were initially drawn in by a class, Kreis said they stayed because of a love of learning and meeting new people.
Kreis said newcomers should not feel intimidated. “You don’t have to know everything about government, law or even the Capitol to show up and have a good time,” they said. “There are a lot of people here, and you can learn so much from just listening.”
Kreis also said OIL helped them better understand their own interests. “I did lobbying last semester and I hated it,” they said. “I tried moot court this session along with still working to pass a bill in the House, and I found that I really like moot court.”
From lobbying to moot court, Kreis’ experience highlights how OIL offers opportunities for growth, regardless of delegation size.