Campaign-In-A-Day Student Profile: Molly Carman

In 2016 American Majority held our first Campaign-In-A-Day event in July in Ohio with 70 students. Join us now in 2021 and we have trained over 2,000 students and adults through the Campaign-In-A-Day program. This profile series of blog posts are to highlight this summer’s attendees’ experiences with the event.

 

Name: Molly Carman

Where are you from: Waxhaw, NC

School or Occupation: I have a B.A. in Intercultural Studies from Union University and now attend Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in the pursuit of a Master’s in Theological Studies (MTS). I also work as a research assistant for the Family Research Council in their new Center for Biblical Worldview. I write for their blog, research a variety of topics, and help edit and revise different resources that we produce.

Campaign-In-A-Day Attended: Forge 2021

 

“Campaign-In-A-Day offers students the opportunity to understand the dedication needed to be elected as well as consider their role as a citizen to engage in the election process. Even if they do not want a career in politics, this is an opportunity for them to be better engaged and equipped citizens of America. It is certainly easy to underestimate how much work and dedication goes into running a campaign. My respect for any candidate that runs for office has certainly increased, and I only participated in a five-hour simulation.  

 

This was my first CIAD experience and I served as Campaign Manager. My role in this simulation allowed me to utilize various leadership skills. I was able to practice intentional communication as we worked as a team to share a vision for our candidate. The exercise also required me to incorporate my organizational skills as we worked to complete each task given throughout the simulation, which was important as we made sure to not just complete assignments but to turn them in with excellence and precision. I was intimidated because I knew nothing about how a campaign worked or what to expect from the simulation. It was challenging to try and apply the information that we were learning immediately, and it was hard to predict what kind of questions the judges might ask our team. However, the instructors were so encouraging and available for any clarification that we needed and, although it was competitive and challenging, it was also fun and educational.  

 

This event offers a credible experience for students before they make a long-term commitment. It helps to set more achievable goals for a future in politics, and it allows for a behind the scenes look of running for office. You have a chance to intentionally engage your talents, passions, and dreams for the future. 

 

The piece of advice I’d give to future attendees is, don’t panic. It’s a lot of information; it’s fast paced, and it can be overwhelming, but remember to just take a step back, breathe and enjoy the experience. Whether your team is not super engaged or the total opposite and overly serious, remember it’s not a real campaign, and your job is to learn, be challenged, and encourage others along the way.”