Applications for the 2012 United States Senate Youth Program are now available!

 

 Student Government Association Members are strongly encouraged to apply to the 2012 United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP). USSYP is designed to deepen students' understanding of America’s political processes and encourage them to consider careers in public service.

Two student leaders from each state, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Activity will become USSYP delegates. From March 3 through March 10, 2012, the delegates will visit Washington, DC and witness the United States government in action. Delegates will hear major policy addresses by Senators, cabinet members, officials from the Departments of State and Defense, and directors of other federal agencies. Delegates will also experience and participate in a meeting with a Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. All transportation, as well as hotel and meal expenses for the USSYP will be provided by the Hearst Foundation. Each delegate will also be awarded a $5,000 college scholarship to be used towards enrollment in an Undergraduate, Bachelor Degree program at an accredited college or four (4) year university.

In order to apply, delegates must be:

• A graduating high school Junior or Senior; 
• A first time USSYP delegate; 
• A resident of the District of Columbia (based on parent/legal guardian’s residency); 
• A U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen; 
• Enrolled in a Public, Public Charter, or private school in the District of Columbia; and 
• One of the following: An elected or appointed student body class President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer or Student Representative.

 Delegates selected into the program agree to: 

• Participate in the USSYP Washington Week Leadership Program from March 3 – 10, 2012;
•  Enroll at an accredited college or university in the U.S. within two (2) years of graduation; 
• Be accepted into an Undergraduate Bachelor Degree program; and 
• Complete the USSYP Application for Grant form, have it signed by the Dean of Admissions or Bursar and affixed with the college or university seal, and forward to the Hearst Foundation.

Applicants must:

• Submit an official high school transcript; 
• Complete a 500 word, typed essay; and 
• Have an interview with the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education’s scholarship review panel.

Applications for the 2012 USSYP are due on October 3, 2011. Please contact Mr. Cotton for an application.