U.S. Senate Youth Program

Do you love History and Civics? Do you think you might be interested in a career in public services (including elected office, civil service or another government role)? The U.S. Senate runs an intensive one-week long program that introduces high school juniors and seniors to the exciting world inside Congress. It’s a great way to test-drive an exciting and important career path!

“The Unites States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) is an intensive week-long educational experience and scholarship sponsored by the United States Senate for outstanding high school students who are interested in pursuing careers in public services ice. High school juniors and seniors may qualify to apply through leadership positions they currently hold per the USSYP official criteria for the [current] academic year.

The mission of the United States Senate Youth Program is to provide a yearly opportunity for selected students to gain an in-depth view of the Senate and the federal government overall as well as a deeper understanding of the interrelationship of the legislative, judicial and executive branches. The program provides a foundation of knowledge and encouragement for those considering a future of public service on the local, state or national level.

The USSYP is a true partnership among government leaders, state and national education leaders and America’s future leaders. Two high school juniors or seniors are selected each year from each state, the District of Columbia and the Department of Defense Education Activity to serve as delegates to Washington Week which generally takes place the first or second week of March.

During Washington Week the student delegates meet and learn from the highest level elected and appointed officials in Washington. The delegates attend briefings and meetings with senators, the president, a justice of the Supreme Court, cabinet members, federal agency leaders and senior members of the national media. At least seventeen military officers, representing each of the military services and the Coast Guard, serve as mentors for the students during the week. The military mentors are competitively selected by Department of Defense staff, representing one of the longest standing partnerships between the Department of Defense and a national youth program.  This in-depth exposure to leadership at the highest levels is precisely what fuels and sustains the delegates’ commitment to making a difference in their country, communities and schools. (see Delegate Essays)

The 104 student delegates also receive a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship to the college or university of their choice with encouragement to continue coursework in government and history.”

How do I get started? Click here.

How do I expand this narrative arc? There are lots of opportunities for teens interested in government and public service. For example:

• Role play your future career with National U.S. Model Congress

• Spend another week gaining insight into the workings of the U.S. Senate and the federal government at the U.S. Senate Summer Program

• Expand your expertise into the international realm with Best Delegate Model UN’s online programs and summer camps.

• Convene a Youth Town Hall in your community to start a dialogue between young people and community leaders.

• Check out the Knight Essay Contest

HOT TIP: Many teens participate in student government but very few elevate their interest beyond the school. Take your knowledge and experience to the next level when you look inside the workings of our actual government. It will look fantastic on your college applications!