How to Apply to be a Council Representative
Learn about what Youth Council service requires and the application process, then start your application.
Responsibilities
If appointed, you will commit to:
- Research important policy issues that affect Minnesota young people
- Participate and be present in full Council, committee, and workgroup meetings
- Engage with your peers in the district you represent (or statewide, for at-large representatives)
- Coordinate and schedule meetings with your elected representatives at least twice a year, at the beginning of term and during the legislative session
- Meet with your assigned adult mentor
- Travel to the Twin Cities metro area at least five times a year for Council retreats, Youth Day at the Capitol, and Council hearings
- Convene at least one town hall session in your district every year
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District representatives
Four members from each of Minnesota’s eight congressional districts represent the interests of all the young people who live there.
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At-large representatives
Council representatives at large represent young people statewide.
Qualifications
All Council representatives must:
- Live in Minnesota
- Attend a middle school or high school in the state
- Be between 13 and 19 years of age
To be appointed, you should:
- Be an active member of your community and a committed advocate for young people
- Lead with equity, collaboration, and quality
- Have a basic understanding of Minnesota’s three branches of government and political systems
MYC Application Process
Applications to join the Minnesota Youth Council are open through March 23, 2025. Council seats become open when current representatives graduate from high school, step down from service, or complete their two-year term. This is the process.
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01
January – March: Submit your application
If you meet the eligibility requirements and you can commit to the duties of Council service, we invite you to submit an application. 2025 deadlines:
- February 28: Deadline for priority consideration
- March 23: Deadline for all applications, unless any Council seat remains unfilled
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02
April–May: Receive interview invitation
We screen Minnesota Youth Council candidates as applications arrive. You might receive a phone call or text message if we need additional context. By May 15, we will send you either a rejection with our thanks, or an invitation to advance to an interview.
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03
May: Meet with the Council director
Applicants selected through the interview process will meet with Priscilla Mayowa, the director of the Minnesota Youth Council in May. For this final conversation, you will be asked to bring a trusted adult with you.
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04
May 31: Council appointments
Minnesota Youth Council representatives will be appointed by the end of May, and invited to attend their required swearing-in.
MYC representatives are officially appointed on December 20, 2024.
