The students have an opportunity to participate in a simulated lobbying session, along with a committee debate session, in order to promote and gain support for their ideas. Finally, students will participate in a floor debate session allowing for their legislation to receive a vote of "pass" or "fail." This experience gives students a better understanding of how legislation is passed and helps sharpen skills such as teamwork, public speaking and writing.  Students also have the opportunity to hear influential speakers. The 2010 keynote speaker, N.C. Rep. David Guise, provided invaluable insights on civic duty and involvement in local communities. The students got an opportunity to learn from a local political leader.  The AYC brings the legislative process to life for North Carolina's future leaders. Rather than simply reading about how a bill becomes a law, students actually work directly with legislation every step of the way.  A few years down the road, some of those Hendersonville Middle School students who argued so eloquently in favor of skateboarding might argue on behalf of an important policy issue in Hendersonville, Raleigh or even Washington, D.C.

The 2012, 12th annual AYC will be held on March 31st.  This event has been such a great learning tool for students in our region that it has become part of the annual curriculum for may schools.  Along with giving middle and high school age students a realistic learning opportunity, the AYC allows for undergraduate and graduate students to gain leadership and business skills necessary for success while implementing this project.