My first real taste of politics came when I was about 13 years old. A friend’s mom was running for a state legislative seat and asked if I could help staff a fundraiser. I don’t remember much about the event itself, but I do still have the autographed photo of me with the former governor. That small volunteer opportunity planted a seed that would shape my understanding of public service for years to come.

Through high school and college, my interest grew. I volunteered for several political campaigns, interned with political organizations and followed current events more closely than most of my peers. I wanted to understand how decisions were made, how policy took shape and how politics influenced the world around us.

Six years ago, that curiosity was piqued when I was encouraged to run for a seat on Kansas Farm Bureau’s political action committee Voters Organized to Elect Farm Bureau Friends, or VOTE FBF. I hesitated. Being “interested in politics” didn’t mean I was qualified. Did I have the knowledge and experience needed to evaluate candidates? Would my perspective be respected? Could I truly represent farmers and ranchers’ interests?

I overcame doubts and chose to run.

Over my two terms, I have evaluated candidates for state and federal races through three election cycles. The work has been extensive — reviewing grassroots input, analyzing voting records for all 165 state legislative seats, six federal races and studying campaign finance reports that revealed just how much money flows through even the smallest races. My understanding of political systems and strategy deepened.

But the most valuable lessons were not about policy or fundraising. They were about people.

When discussing what makes a strong candidate, intelligence, experience or influence rarely topped the list. Instead, the qualities that mattered most were simple: Show up. Listen. Learn. Be present. Constituents want someone who is accessible, who takes the time to understand their concerns and who can translate complex issues into meaningful impacts on everyday life.

I saw the power of these attributes on full display just last weekend. Our local chamber of commerce hosted a legislative coffee with the three state legislators who represent districts in our county. A few dozen community members gathered early on a Saturday morning to hear updates from Topeka and learn about priorities for the upcoming session.

Our representatives didn’t just speak about votes taken last year or policy discussions underway. They offered context — explaining why certain decisions were made, what challenges lie ahead and which projects matter most to them personally. Their willingness to be open, answer questions and spend time with constituents gave attendees more than information. It gave them a sense of connection and confidence that their voices matter.

That morning served as an important reminder: legislators aren’t the only ones who need to show up. As citizens, we have responsibilities, too.

We must attend events like these coffees. We must get to know our representatives and provide feedback. We must engage with difficult topics rather than avoid them. And we must vote — in every election, even primaries and local races. In many cases, those down-ballot decisions are the ones that shape our communities most directly.

I am now in my final month of service with VOTE FBF as my term ends in December. I leave the committee far more informed, deeply appreciative of the political process and grateful for the opportunity to contribute. The biggest lesson I carry with me is also the simplest one.

If you want a say in the world around you, you have to show up.