From being the president of the National Art Honors Society to a perfect score at state band, and excelling in debate and forensics, it’s no wonder senior Sophie Hsu is going to the United States Youth Senate Program.
This program began in 1962 during John F. Kennedy’s presidency. Two students from each state receive a $10,000 scholarship and a long-week trip to Washington.
According to the Youth Senate, during this week student delegates will attend policy speeches by senators, cabinet members, and officials from the Departments of State and Defense, They will also have the opportunity to participate in meetings with the president and a justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
The application process is vigorous. One requirement is leadership roles and participation in activities focusing on making a difference.
Two crucial roles that strengthened Hsu’s application was her position as president of NAHS and her public speaking in debate and forensics.
Being part of NAHS began her passion for making a difference. A life-changing moment for Hsu was her sculpture, “Flight of Florence.”
“I drafted the sculpture and presented it to the city of Shawnee and about 75 other spectators,” Hsu said. “That was when I realized that our actions in the government can truly make a difference.”
Her experience in debate also deepened her interest in the government.
“After I gave the speech to the city of Shawnee I joined speech and debate the following year, and that was where I never looked back,” Hsu said. “Since then, I’ve only become more interested in researching the government and looking at how things work.”
Together these experiences created a foundation for leadership.
Additionally, students take a lengthy test with questions dating back to the founders’ era to apply.
Although the test was arduous, Hsu was grateful to have English teacher Peter Shull help her with the essays, and history teacher Jeff Strickland help her study for the exam.
Strickland was crucial in helping Hsu prepare for the tests due to his experience. In 2017, he assisted Jack Campbell in winning the same scholarship.
Support from teachers was crucial, but her family also motivated her. Her aunt, who works for the federal government, inspired her to make an impact, and her dad’s work ethic inspired her to work hard in everything she does.
“If you think I’m crazy with all the assignments that I do, my dad does twice as much for his work, but that inspired me to go forward,” Hsu said.
