As I approached SUNY Morrisville, excitement and nervousness flowed through my body. I was uncertain of how I would fit in with the rest of the guys but found comfort in a familiar face while I walked up the steps, where I would wait for about forty-five minutes in the heat of the day to be checked in. 

Over the course of my first afternoon at Boys’ State, I realized that the rest of my week would be an unique experience which I would remember for the rest of my life. Performing PT with my county was a very refreshing way to begin my day and practicing drill with my city/county, which seemed daunting at first, actually appears to be one of my favorite activities here at Boys’ State. The most painful aspect of Boys’ State must be waking up before the roosters in the morning. I’m sure this experience will shift the habits I possess when I get back home, but waking up at five in the morning will most definitely not be one of them. I expect my least favorite aspect of this program may change because I’m sure Sergeant Diaz has some fun activities planned for us in the future.

Throughout the little amount of time I’ve been here, I’ve gotten to learn a great deal about the guys that I’m dorming with for the rest of the week, whether through discussion at city/county caucuses or when at rest during drill. All of the guys here are really intelligent, well-rounded people and I am elated that I get to spend the rest of this week with them. #SPAFFORDSTRONG