LAURINBURG — A Scotland High School student was selected to receive the United States Senate Youth Scholarship and will attend a program in Washington, D.C.
Walter Jackson, Scotland senior, has been selected as one of the two winners in North Carolina to receive the scholarship. The winners will represent North Carolina in Washington, D.C. from March 5 through 12 during the 54th annual United States Senate Youth Program.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to take part in this scholarship program because it will strengthen my leadership and social skills,” said Walter Jackson. “And being able to participate with other students who also have an interest in politics will make the program all the more enjoyable.”
The scholarship is awarded to two high school students in each state that have an interest in pursuing careers in public service.
Jackson will be awarded a $5,000 college scholarship for undergraduate studies.
“I plan to double major in philosophy and political science,” Jackson said. “I have not totally made up my mind on where I plan to attend college. I am currently looking at Wake Forest University and Chapel Hill.”
The United States Senate Youth Program was established in 1962 by the U.S. Senate.
During the program students will spend a week experiencing national government in action.
“I am hoping that this year’s delegation will have the opportunity to visit the White House and hear from the President like other delegations have in the past,” he said.
Student delegates will hear major policy addresses from senators, cabinet members, officials from the Departments of State and Defense and directors of other federal agencies. The students will also participate in a meeting with a Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
All transportation, hotel and meal expenses will be provided by The Hearst Foundations.
Jackson has also been selected as a semifinalist for the Morehead-Cain class of 2020.
Only 20 percent of Morehead-Cain applicants are chosen to advance to semifinalists. Jackson will be asked to interview with the Morehead-Cain Regional Selection Committee later this year.