Ten students from MATC student organizations attended a Legislative Seminar in Madison, February 15-17. I was one of the student leaders in attendance.

The Wisconsin Student Government (WSG) meeting is one of five gatherings held throughout the year that brings together student leaders from all 16 Wisconsin Technical Colleges. Students connect, collaborate and advocate for positive change. They build leadership skills and speak up for what technical college students need.

At this seminar, students spoke with state legislators about why it’s important to keep and grow funding for financial aid and grants. Students shared the need to boost support for student success, workforce training, and career opportunities after graduation. Students were also asked to talk about their own experiences and how technical colleges have genuinely affected people, families, and communities throughout Wisconsin.

In my experience, being able to talk directly with legislators felt both powerful and extremely important. I worked to push for more funding and support to help graduates who might have a hard time adjusting to the workforce.

Beyond just speaking up for student needs, the experience also gave us a chance to connect, make new friends, and spend time together outside of the sessions. Our group explored Madison together, ate some meals, and toured the Capitol. While there, we got to meet Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers and take some photos with him. The Legislative Seminar was a meaningful experience that made me see how important student voices are. It showed me the part we play in shaping policies that not only help students now but also those who will come after us.