The United States Senate Youth Program, established in 1962 by U.S. Senate Resolution, is a unique educational experience for outstanding high school students interested in pursuing careers in public service.

Two student representatives and two alternates are selected each year from Virginia.  Student representatives from each state, the District of Columbia and the Department of Defense Education Activity will spend a week in Washington experiencing their national government in action. Alternates will only attend Washington week if a state representative is unable to attend.   

Student delegates will hear major policy addresses by senators, cabinet members, officials from the Departments of State and Defense and directors of other federal agencies, as well as usually participate in meetings with the president and a justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. All transportation, hotel and meal expenses will be provided by The Hearst Foundations. In addition, each delegate will also be awarded a $10,000 college scholarship for undergraduate studies, with encouragement to pursue coursework in history and political science.  Additional information can be found on the Hearst Foundation's USSYP webpage.