Cynically speaking, they are trying to build the girls’ self esteem, or trying to convince you you’re not missing out by not living in Brooklyn. Not sure it’s working.
OTOH, if everybody participates there are many life skills that can be implemented such as teamwork, time management, problem solving, creative thinking etc. These life skills are probably more valuable in the long term than most of your studies.
Question to you is, why are you sitting on the sidelines? With so few girls, you should have ample opportunity to shine and maybe save your school some money by having to outsource less. Good luck!