<p>You don't need to be nominated by your particular Representative or Senator; however, I assume it'd be helpful. Since there are 60-80 pages at a given time, not all Representatives would have the ability to nominate a page. Consequently, a nominating Congressman/Congresswoman would have to be fairly influential.</p>
<p>For details.</p>
<p>Besides, pages get paid for what we interns do for free. :P</p>
<p>If you're interested in the page program and your representative or senator is a junior member, consider applying through one of the leaders' offices (ie Hastert, Pelosi, Frist, Reid). I know at least in the House they get multiple nominees and appointees. Oh, and not only do you get free room and board, you get paid. Also, technically, all Reps/Senators could nominate a page. All nominees' applications are forwarded to the Speaker or Minority leader's office (in the House, depending if your nominating member is a Republican or Democrat). The final decisions on appointees are made there.<br>
Oh, and I was NOT of the same party as my Congressman, but I still got appointed and had a great time serving. The criteria for selection are somewhat mysterious, but I would apply the same logic as with college applications -- get good grades, good ECs, get great letters of recommendation and put a lot of effort into your essay.</p>
<p>Followed the suggestion in this link to the Page Program - which most unfortunately has been cut due lowered need for pages (thanks to technology) and cost of the program. Link to the announcement here: </p>
<p>[Statement</a> by Speaker Boehner & Democratic Leader Pelosi on the House Page Program | Speaker of the House John Boehner | speaker.gov](<a href=“http://www.speaker.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=255391]Statement”>http://www.speaker.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=255391)</p>