Youth Advisory Council
This Council is a great opportunity for students to give their opinions on real legislation that the Representative is working on. Students also have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about the legislative process— and even present bill ideas of their own. We meet once a month at the Palatine Public Library from 6 pm - 7 pm.
Click the button below to sign up for email updates!
Upcoming YAC Dates
We had a successful 2024 YAC season! Thank you to each and every student who took time out of their busy schedule to attend and participate in monthly meetings.
Please sign up to receive information for future YAC dates.
YAC Testimonials
“YAC was such an amazing experience to be apart of, getting to meet with Representative Syed and other like minded individuals really helped give me perspective and learn more about the legislative process.”
“The meetings were special in that they allowed me to collaborate and converse with so many aspiring young minds who are passionate about issues in the community. It was truly a gratifying experience, and I hope we continue maintaining these forums for discussion and inspiration for our youth.”
“I LOVED our bill debates- we got to look at actual bills and see how we can pass them. The budget was also nice because we got to advocate for organizations we’re passionate about and then the final budget debate was COOL everyone was talking and advocating and we all worked to split the money.”
“YAC has allowed to grow and become a more confident and passionate version of myself. I feel empowered to speak about issues I care about, and YAC has only strengthened this passion.”
“I loved researching different organizations and it has inspired me to see young people start their own organizations. It reminds me that your never too young to make a change.”
District 51 Fellowship Program
YAC students also have the opportunity to participate in our District 51 Fellowship Program where they engage with our office at a deeper level. Fellows attend community events with us, meet community leaders, and work with their peers on a bill idea for a legislative issue.
The fellowship program coincides with YAC. If you’re interested in joining the YAC and fellowship program and getting updates, please email us at info@repsyed.com, and we’ll keep you in the loop. For now, please see some of our highlights below!
“Thank you so much for all of the support the office provided during this fellowship. From giving us the opportunity to work hands-on alongside the office at community events to enlightening us on current events, I feel so much more informed as a young person and empowered to take on further work related to policy and advocacy. This program has been incredibly vital to the development of so many of the skills I need to pursue further opportunities, and having an office be so open to providing opportunities for young people is so comforting to see.”
— District 51 Fellow
Highlights from past YAC Meetings
