<p>I have read other threads related to this program, but they are all about students applying to it. I only want responses from people who have participated or are close to someone who has participated, please (or if you have any type of knowledge related to it at all, such as applying, interviewing, testing, etc.). Also, I don't care if you have never heard of the program; in that case, please do not bother posting.</p>
<p>With that said, I came across the United States Senate Youth Program online, and, to be quite frank, I am in love with the idea of it. It has been all I am able to think about. Is there anyone who can convey past experiences related to it to me? I would love to hear about it from a personal perspective. The application period does not open for my state until August, but I would enjoy learning as much as I can about the program. Thank you in advance!</p>
<p>I participated in the 50th Anniversary of this remarkable program this year. It is, bar-none, the single most life-changing opportunity available to politically interested high school students. I’m sure you can find the literature on all of the powerful figures delegates have the opportunity to meet (for me, that included President Obama, Defense Secretary Panetta, and Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, to name a few), but the overall experience in Washington and the people you will meet, the friendships you will forge, culminate to probably the most difficult moment of your life so far: saying goodbye. I gave up my school’s senior trip to New York City and speech and debate states to attend Washington Week, and I’ve never regretted a moment of it. Selection is highly competitive, so I suggest preparing in accordance with however your state assesses students. Good luck, and I hope to see you next year when I come back as an alumnus!</p>