The second secret of success is planning. Now is not too early or too late to begin planning for Boys State success. This means identifying what you would like to accomplish and then developing a plan to do it. This may include running for office or simply doing well on the college credit portion of the week. Begin asking questions about important state issues and do your research on them. Begin writing bills over the issues you think important and prepare your arguments to get them passed.
Finally, come to Boys State with the right attitude. If you already know everything there’s not much to learn at Boys State. If, however, you freely admit you’ve much to learn, then there is much to learn. Also come in a spirit of tolerance. Many of the boys you will meet will hold different views and will not necessarily see the world and its problems in exactly the same way. Be prepared to offer them the courtesy of explaining their views and, be prepared to change yours if theirs makes more sense. On the other hand, also be prepared to help people find new ways of thinking and new ways of understanding what they already know. Vigorous debate can be very fulfilling and very enlightening.