Flippin' the Switch
Flippin' the Switch
S6 E9: A Week in Washington - The Youth Tour Experience with Giana Cadwallader
What happens when you take four high school students from small-town North Carolina and drop them into the heart of Washington, DC for a week? Magic, transformation, and lifelong connections.
The Electric Cooperative Youth Tour has been sending students to our nation's capital for over 60 years. In this episode, we get a firsthand account from Giana Cadwallader, a Jacksonville High School senior who experienced this journey of discovery over the summer. From trading state pins with students across America to standing in awe before towering monuments that remind us "freedom isn't free," Giana's story captures the essence of what makes this program so powerful.
For any high school juniors listening, applications open in December for next summer's trip. Check our website or social media for details on how you could experience this transformative opportunity. As Gianna's story demonstrates, some lessons can only be learned by walking in the footsteps of history.
Run Time: 19 Minutes
here at jones onslow. Two of the seven cooperative principles education, training and information and concern for community tied directly into why we send students on the electric cooperative youth tour each year. You can read about government and history and textbooks, but immersing yourself and experience makes a much bigger impact. For more than 60 years, electric cooperatives across the country have sponsored students on the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour, held in Washington DC each June, where they learn about leadership, history and how our government works. Each year, jones-onslow sends four rising seniors on this all-expenses-paid trip of a lifetime.
Speaker 2:A youth tour wouldn't happen without our co-op chaperones and somehow I've had the privilege or maybe I'm just a little crazy of going three times. I've seen firsthand the incredible impact it has on every student and I thought you'd like to hear it from one of our very own youth tours. Gianna and Gianna, I'm not going to say your last name because I butchered every time, so I'm going to let you introduce yourself and tell us a little something about yourself. You know what school you attend, activities and maybe even something about your future plans.
Speaker 1:Hi, thanks for having me. My name is Gianna Kedwalader. I'm a senior at Jacksonville High School. I'm the Jacksonville High School representative for the Jacksonville Youth Council. I play trumpet in the marching band at my school. I'm in the Health Science Academy different clubs like that at my school. I'm the oldest of three girls and I'm planning on going to an HBCU this year. I'm looking to get into forensic science as well. Always been interested in CSI. Awesome, you sound like you're very busy. Yes, ma'am, absolutely, especially senior year, oh, yes.
Speaker 2:Yes, okay. So, gianna, how did you first hear about the youth tour and what was the application process like for you?
Speaker 1:So I actually heard about the youth tour through my IB history teacher, Miss Lumley, and she strongly encouraged that everyone in all her classes apply, and so out of two classes I was selected.
Speaker 2:So we choose four students each year from, not just from Jacksonville High School. The application process is opened up to all the high school rising juniors in our service territory. So out of all the applicants applied, you were one of four, which is awesome.
Speaker 1:Thank you.
Speaker 2:Thank you. And when you found out you were selected, what was that moment like?
Speaker 1:I was so excited Also a little bit anxious, because I wasn't exactly sure what we're gonna do, um, but overall I was super excited. Um, I had been to DC before with my grandfather before, but once I saw the schedule like everything that we had planned I was super excited, especially because, out of the group that I was chosen from, we're all extremely hard workers and like high achievers, like you know what I mean. So we've all, like we're in the top 10 percent of our class, things like that.
Speaker 2:So to be chosen out of that, I was over the moon, you should be yeah, and then to go to DC with your family is a totally different experience, which we'll get into then going on the youth tour Totally different experience. So the youth tour isn't just for North Carolina approximately 1800 students from co-ops across the country coming together in DC. Were you able to connect with students from other states while you were there?
Speaker 1:I did. I did. So there's a thing for the youth tour where we get North Carolina pins and we trade with different states and things like that. So each state has their own set of pens and then we trade with each other. So we would meet up at different spots, like on the tour, and if we saw some from a different state we would trade for their pens and that was like one of my favorite parts and I actually have like a large collection. Yeah, everybody wanted the Hawaii pin. Oh yeah, did you get a Hawaii pin? I actually, I think I did. I think I did get a Hawaii pin.
Speaker 2:Okay, I was going to say I do have a Hawaii pin, yes, okay, so obviously you have made lifelong friends on this trip.
Speaker 1:Yes, ma'am, yes ma'am, Especially my like of the North Carolina group um Bree Janessa Peyton, um Jazaria Chaneria. We all had a great time. We were kind of the bunch that stayed together.
Speaker 2:And that is one good thing about youth tour. You go in not knowing anybody. May know one or two people from their school in the beginning. It's kind of interesting as a an advisor to watch the students. This is my third year. You go in there on orientation and everybody's just like real shy and not saying anything. They're holding back with their parents because their parents are there for orientation and then after dinner the parents have to leave and then we force all of you to sit in a circle and get to know one another.
Speaker 2:So it is quite interesting to see the bonds start to form and everything. So, from day one to day seven, it truly is. I mean, that's one of the best parts that I like about youth tour.
Speaker 1:Yes, ma'am and my roommate Leah. We stayed together for like the first couple of days and we had a lot of fun together. We went a lot of places together, so that was cool. Yeah, yeah, it was awesome meeting her.
Speaker 2:Lots of friendships.
Speaker 1:Yes, ma'am, and we're still in contact. We have everybody's numbers. It's great.
Speaker 2:It'd be kind of good to do like a youth tour Reunion.
Speaker 1:Reunion? Yes, it really would. That'd be awesome See what everybody's doing and catch up.
Speaker 2:Yes, maybe in 10 years with your group.
Speaker 1:We should do it a little bit earlier.
Speaker 2:Okay, sorry, Five years maybe after you all graduate from college.
Speaker 2:We See where everybody's at there you go, and there have been youth tourists in the past that have reconnected in college. Yeah, yes, that's kind of cool. That's awesome. Yeah, that'd be great. So now into sightseeing and history. Of course, no trip to Washington is complete without some powerful sightseeing. You visited the World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, arlington National Cemetery. We even got to witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. What was going through your mind as you visited these historic sacred places?
Speaker 1:So, so, going to the different memorials well, especially the memorials, my grandfather is a veteran and it's just, it really hits you hard that we're not just here Like by coincidence. There's people who put their lives on the line that we could walk around safely in the streets, that we can make our own decisions and live in a place where we vote to make decisions. They paid for that freedom. So, yeah, especially at the Korean War Memorial, there's a sign that says freedom isn't free, and that's just what you're thinking about while you're there. Like this is why we have like a place like America. Did you have a favorite monument or memorial? I did. I took pictures in front of the Martin Luther King Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and just seeing, like across the water, that one, that was really nice, that was really nice.
Speaker 2:And the monuments too and memorials are just so massive in size, like the MLK Memorial. I didn't realize how large it was until the first time I got there and that is tremendous. But also it just goes to show like a large monument because he was such a you know, tremendous individual that had such a big impact on our country to where, I mean, it makes sense that these monuments are so massive. Lar know tremendous individual that had such a big impact on our country to where, I mean, it makes sense that these monuments are so massive, larger, grand, yeah larger than life, and a detail about his thing is at the bottom.
Speaker 1:They leave it kind of like unchipped to show that, like his, even though he did a lot of work, that there's still more that can be done, which I just I think that's awesome I did not know that.
Speaker 1:Yeah, that is awesome one of my favorite parts of the DC trip was the architecture, especially. Just, you know, jacksonville is a little small, which I love, my hometown but seeing the different buildings, especially the National Archives that was when it was so beautiful in there. And then like the library that was back there Library of Congress yeah, the Library of Congress, that. And the Capitol Hill, like their Library of Congress yeah, the library of Congress, um, that in the, the um Capitol Hill, like their ceilings and the painting, and then just knowing the meaning behind everything. Everything is symbolic and I really appreciate that. I'm an arts person, like I'm I play in the band, I like theater, Like I love jazz, so just like analyzing that stuff and seeing the feeling and the meaning behind it. That was, that was one of my favorite parts, just seeing how pretty it was.
Speaker 2:You mentioned the theater. We also went saw Les Mis at.
Speaker 1:Yes, at the Kennedy Center.
Speaker 2:Yeah, so what did you think of that? Because I know a lot of students went in there because it was a three hour play. We're going there at 730 at night after being out all day long. Yeah.
Speaker 1:And when I heard it was three hours, I was like, oh, my goodness, how are we going to make it through this? But I mean, it was just so. It was amazing, wasn't it? Yes, it was. I was also excited for that. Like I said, like I love the theater and stuff, I was, um, I worked as what is it called? Like a stage hand for the school play, um, and and I thought about doing pit for the play, so, anyways. So I was super excited to see Les Mis and it was awesome, awesome performance. It was really funny. I had never seen it before. Once I kind of figured out the plot. It was awesome, it was and it was like the production value. It was awesome, it was really nice, I agree.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:We got the chance to visit Capitol Hill, where our representatives were on recess, but you still got to meet with their staff members. What was that like, getting to talk with people who work so closely with lawmakers?
Speaker 1:Well, it was awesome hearing from the people who like write the laws out, because we see the people who speak to us like the representatives for our government and like the state representatives and things like that. But to see the people who are like writing it out and then they send it off to get signed by those who are, who are voted, to see what they actually do, because in school we learn about, like judicial, legislative, executive, but to see what they're doing on the daily, like that those roles is where change is happening and they're writing it out and then they do it every single day. It seems like a really rewarding job. And they're writing it out and then they do it every single day.
Speaker 2:It seems like a really rewarding job. Now, another unique part of the trip is the student run H2O co-op. Can you explain what that was and what role you played in it?
Speaker 1:OK, so I was a board member for the H2O co-op, just like a regular co-op and we all voted together.
Speaker 1:Those. We were elected by the people to give back to the people, which we learned a lot about electrical co-ops, and that was just one of the first things we learned because we did it on the first night. So we were voted, we gave, like a speech about ourselves and people decided they wanted us to be their board members. And people decided, if they wanted us to be their board members, and then the board we hired the manager and the assistant manager that would go on to fill the snacks and do the waters for the trip.
Speaker 2:Now, I also sat in on that interview process you did with the manager and the assistant manager and I know it probably was a learning experience and an eye-opening experience for you, because there was five board members, if I'm not mistaken, and originally several of you went one way, with certain managers, assistant managers, and a couple went the other way, and in the end there's a tiebreaker and it was just interesting to see how you all voted and why you all voted, and I think it probably was a good experience for all of you to see that.
Speaker 1:You have to compromise, you have to compromise.
Speaker 2:Whether you like the decision or not, majority rolls yeah, so I found that interesting, yeah me too.
Speaker 1:I thought it was really cool how we all come together for that experience, how we all came together to vote for one person. For that experience, how we all came together to vote for one person. I've been in different clubs and societies where you have to vote a person in or you speak to others to interview, to get yourself voted in a position, but to be that person who's bringing the people in, I thought that was a really cool experience. Yes, and collaborating with the other people.
Speaker 2:So looking back on the week as a whole, what stands out as the most memorable, impactful moment for you?
Speaker 1:The first thing that comes to mind was kind of when we all got back and even though we started the week as strangers, everybody was crying Like we were taking pictures. It was just such a sweet moment because now we're a family, like we had seen so much together. Dc is like a beautiful place. We were all there like like-minded peers. We've all worked hard at home and to be here in a place that we worked hard to achieve and that we were rewarded for that by going to all these nice places and learn more about ourselves and each other, and then the government and seeing all the landmarks and things, it was just it was awesome. It was sad to see it come to an end.
Speaker 2:We're all happy to see our families, but just walking away with this life-changing experience was it was awesome, it really was and um, I'm sure it wasn't sad walking four to eight miles a day, getting up at like six in the morning and not getting back into the hotel to 11 o'clock sometimes.
Speaker 1:Yeah we were I slept.
Speaker 2:Well, I slept well, yes and I will say gianna is a trooper. I don't know if mom knows this or not. Mom is sitting here, um, as we're doing this interview on our capitol hill day, gianna's shoe was talking to her. Yeah, it was, if the front part fell apart. But tell you what? This girl kept on and on. I mean she didn't complain or anything.
Speaker 1:Because it was raining and we were walking around in my flat. Say, I had him a minute, so it was.
Speaker 2:Yeah, I mean you can sit there and laugh about it now, but I was like, oh, my goodness, you poor girl. So I guess for future youth tours maybe throw an extra pair of shoes in your backpack.
Speaker 1:An extra pair of flats. You don't think you have to worry about the flats but you do Even flats break.
Speaker 2:So, beyond everything you learn, do you think the friendships and connections you made are a part of what makes the youth tour so special?
Speaker 1:Absolutely 100%. I feel like the people really made it what it was. Obviously, the tour was awesome, all the places that we went to, but having somebody to experience that with and knowing that you're walking away from this like seeing the same things and being like becoming a better person because of the same experience, it builds a bond that, like you, can't get anywhere else.
Speaker 2:So how do you think this experience will shape you as a student, a leader or even a future community member, or even perhaps a board member one day here at Jones-Onslow?
Speaker 1:Of course. Of course this has shaped me. Just being from a small town like Jacksonville and then going out and seeing all those places and meeting all those different people, it really opens your eyes to like this whole other world. Especially being from kind of a small town, you kind of get comfortable with the people that you're around and the things that you do, even though you know you work hard. And things like that being with other people who are also working hard, it pushes you to work harder. So now I want to be better, so I can go higher up and be a better leader and be a better friend, be a better communicator. Um, so that's how it's changed me. I just pushed to be better.
Speaker 2:Well, in your essay um, you wrote I believe it would be a life-changing experience, and I think we can both agree that it truly was yes.
Speaker 1:A hundred percent. It really was like I'm definitely not the same person that I was before I left.
Speaker 2:Is there anything else you'd like to share with students who might be thinking about applying for the youth tour in the future?
Speaker 1:Yes, absolutely do it. Do it, do it, do it, write your essay. It's an amazing experience Like you can't get this anywhere else to see those places. Also, it's free. All the work that you've put in to your school, being a leader in your community, standing out all those hours of sweat, tears and studying after hours, sleepless nights, like just to see that all pay off, made the trip worth it. It was awesome, and meeting all your friends that you'll have these lifelong bonds with it's awesome. So definitely do it.
Speaker 2:So for any rising seniors listening, you heard it Youth Tour is truly a life-changing experience. So if you're interested in applying, check out our website and follow us on social media. Applications open up in December. Now, before we wrap up, we want to ask you three rapid fire questions.
Speaker 1:Okay, so what was your go-to snack on the bus? The crackers that y'all had on there, and I drank mostly water, lots of water.
Speaker 2:Yeah, lots of water. Yes, Window or aisle seat. I was a window seat, did you?
Speaker 1:like it, I did. I like to see all of DC.
Speaker 2:It's kind of when you fly. Do you like a window seat? Yeah?
Speaker 1:I do. I always like the window seat yeah.
Speaker 2:And then, if you tour, had a song what would it be?
Speaker 1:All of the Stars by SZA and Kendrick Lamar. I think it just has that ethereal feeling.
Speaker 2:This has been so fun hearing your perspective, Gianna. Thank you so much. Thank you so much for having me.
Speaker 3:Hey everyone, natalie here to let you know what's happening at your co-op this month and the exciting news it brings. Let's get started. Hurricane season isn't over yet. Have you checked out our social media for storm tips and tricks to keep in mind for your home? Let's get started safe and prepared. This month is National Drive Electric Month. Who remembers last year's podcast episode with two of our very own JOEMC employees discussing the pros and cons of driving an EV? Head to our podcast page on our website and listen, if you haven't already. Did you know? Your co-op has partnered with other electric cooperatives across the state to build an electric vehicle charging network that allows EV drivers to travel and visit co-op communities easily. This network includes two level 2 EV charging stations installed at our headquarters in Jacksonville and the Hampton Inn in Sneeds Ferry, and be on the lookout. More charging stations will be coming soon. We are excited to see what the future of EV driving brings for our co-op At Jones Onslow EMC.
Speaker 3:We're always looking for ways to make managing your electric account easier. One great option available to all members is paperless billing. It's a convenient, secure and environmentally friendly way to receive your monthly bill. It's easy to switch to paperless billing. Log into your JOEMC member portal at wwwjoemccom. Go to account profile, select paperless billing and follow the prompts to complete your enrollment. If you prefer to speak to a member services representative, give us a call at 910-353-1940.
Speaker 3:And last but most certainly not least, if you haven't heard already, we have a new CEO at Jones-Onslow, ricky Moretti. If you haven't heard already, we have a new CEO at Jones Onslow, ricky Moretti. A familiar face in town and to all of us here at the co-op. Ricky has been a JOEMC employee for over 37 years. We are excited for what the future brings with him as our fearless leader. To get to know Ricky, listen to the last episode of Flippin' the Switch For more exciting news about your co-op. Visit our website and read our Spotlight newsletter or check your email. The newsletter is delivered to your inbox each month so you can stay in the know about happenings at JOEMC. And that's what's happening this month Natalie signing off. Well, folks, that's all for today's episode of Flippin' the Switch. Be sure to follow us on our social media platforms to stay in the loop with Jones Onslow. We'll see y'all next time.