As many watch the political drama unfold in the nation’s capital from afar, some high school students, including one from Northeast Ohio, will soon see it first-hand.
Huron High School junior Ronnie Eytchison was one of two students selected in Ohio, and 104 chosen in the country, for the highly competitive United States Senate Youth Program. In addition to a $10,000 scholarship, Eytchison will spend a week in Washington D.C.
The student delegates will meet President Donald Trump, Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch and dozens of other heavy political hitters.
“I’m so ready,” said Eytchison. “I’m so excited for it.”
Hours of studying the state and federal government along with leadership positions at school helped Eytchison score a coveted spot.
“Ronnie is that student that any teacher would love to have in their classroom,” said Heather Merckens, social studies teacher at Huron High School. “To be part the youth senate is something he’ll remember for the rest of his life.”
Eytchison already has questions prepared for senators and knows what he’d like to see in D.C.
“I think people forget a lot of the time that the people on the other side of the aisle are their friends, their fellow Americans. I think they need to remember that.”
One day, he’d like to have a career in public health.
“I genuinely believe there’s nothing more gratifying than to help other people. Public service is a really great way to do that.”
The program begins Saturday, March 3.
Senator Susan Collins, Karl Rove and Governor Chris Christie are among USSYP's alumni.
