TROY, Ala. (TROJANVISION) — With the arrival of this year’s Girls State session came some well-known female political leaders, including a U.S. senator.

One of the keynote speakers was Alabama U.S Senator and former Girls State delegate Katie Britt. According to Britt, her visit to TROY allowed her to remember her own time in Girls State.

“Despite all of the fun activities, despite the nerves and getting over being able to give a speech in front of people, or, you know, being asked tough questions, it is the memories you make with the other young women here,” Britt told TrojanVision. “Those relationships you build truly have a lasting impact.”

Two years ago, during Girls State at TROY, Britt announced her candidacy for one of Alabama’s U.S senators. She said it’s a full circle moment to come back to Girls State while holding that position.

“To be able to come back and to be the very first United States Senator to ever come to Girls State is an incredible honor, very humbling,” Britt explained. “It also reminds you why we’re doing what we do.”

Britt also gave the future female leaders some advice that she hopes they take with them for the rest of their lives.

“Be you,” Britt said. “The greatest gift that God can ever give us is just the privilege to be ourselves so don’t compare yourself to someone else.”

Before Britt left, delegates asked her questions during an open-mic session and grabbed some photos.

Britt was just one guest in Girls State’s speaker-packed schedule. That schedule also includes Alabama Governor Kay Ivey.