Two Old Rochester Regional High School students traveled to the Massachusetts State House on Monday, March 25. There, with 58 other young people, Old Rochester senior Jaymison Gunschel and junior Emerson Gonet were sworn into Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey’s Youth Advisory Council.

Gunschel and Gonet will serve two-year appointments on the committee, composed of young people across the state.

“We're all basically collaborating and giving our own perspectives on what's happening in our community to voice our opinions,” Gonet said. “And we also learn from one another to understand what others might be going through — but also being able to take that and bring it to your own community.”

The council will advise the Healey administration on issues impacting Massachusetts like education, climate, housing, mental health, civic engagement and youth violence, according to a press release from the office of Healey.

“Every day, our administration is making policy decisions that have a significant impact on the lives of young people for generations to come,” Healey said. “Now, through this advisory council, they will have a direct say in their futures.”

The Youth Advisory Council will also lead initiatives, listening sessions and working groups,

“I’m just really looking forward to hearing about everyone's perspectives and what they think about their communities but also about others’ communities,” Gonet said.

Healey established the council with an executive order in September 2023.

“[Gunschel and Gonet’s] hard work and dedication to representing their peers on the state level is impressive, and we are excited to see what they achieve while on the council,” Old Rochester Regional Superintendent Michael Nelson said in a press release.

Gonet, 17, said she will be learning from people both younger and older than her. Youth Advisory Council members range in age from 16 to 21 years old.

“It's going to be a great experience and opportunity for me,” Gonet said.