<p>I'm interested in pursuing a career in politics/public policy, and I've been looking into a few summer programs for the summer before my senior year (as I'm a sophomore right now, and I'm already scheduled for band camps all summer). </p>
<p>I found two so far that really pique my interest: the Junior Statesmen of America's summer program in Washington DC, and the School of Public Service at St Alban's School, also in DC. Both seem to be pretty reputable (compared to NSLC and the like), and if I don't get accepted into TASP, which is pretty likely to happen, I'll be going to one of them. Any input to help me decide would be extremely helpful. :)</p>
<p>Hello. I did JSA at Yale University this past summer 2008 and it was terrific. I met with Brian Williams, Katie Couric, Geraldine Ferraro and the Executive Director of UNICEF during our Speaker's Day in New York City. This was a terrific experience since at this program I was surrounded by students who were interested in discussing political issues as much as I was. Also there are debate sessions each night as a part of the cirriculum pertaining to political issues whether it be fisical policy or ethics. I must warn you though, it is a truly rigourous program. There are 3 hours of 2 main classes (I took Constitutional Law and Legal Advocacy) and 2 hours of congressional workshop (debate). Plus by the last week of the program there a 4+ page research paper that must be completed. It is no walk in the park, but it was a great experience to meet new people and learn a lot about our government.</p>