Opportunities for Young Nebraskans

Statement

While hosting mobile offices and attending public meetings in the Third District this week, I heard many concerns about the direction of our country. The upcoming presidential election will undoubtedly play an important role in America's future, but it is important to look even further ahead and invest in our young leaders who will shape this country over the coming decades.

At my Fairbury mobile office, Fairbury Journal-News editor Shaun Friedrichsen asked me in an interview how we can engage more young people in the political process. I was heartened by the question because this has been a priority for me since I took office. My grandfather sparked my interest in politics as a kid, and I am committed to helping young Nebraskans get involved.

There are many opportunities available to young people through my offices. The Third District Youth Advisory Council is open to high school juniors and seniors who are interested in discussing their opinions, thoughts, and concerns with me about local and federal issues throughout the school year. Any rising juniors and seniors interested in applying for the 2016-2017 school year are encouraged to visit my website at www.AdrianSmith.house.gov to learn more about the program and fill out an application.

For college students interested in gaining firsthand experience in the legislative process, my office offers internships in Washington, D.C., Grand Island, and Scottsbluff. During an internship, students work side-by-side with full-time staff on policy issues, attend events, and assist with constituent services. Applications are available on my website and accepted year-round.

One of the great privileges in my role as a Member of Congress is nominating a select group of Third District students to attend the U.S. Service Academies. To help young people who are interested in serving our country learn more about these opportunities, I host an annual Academy Day every spring. Details about this event will be available in the coming weeks. For more information about the service academies or the application process, please contact my Grand Island office.

During my time in Nebraska, I enjoy visiting schools and talking with students of all ages about our government and the issues we are working on in Washington. When Third District school groups travel to the nation's capital, I make it a priority to meet with them any time my schedule permits. My office is also happy to assist in arranging tours. If your school group is traveling to D.C. this year, please let my Washington office know so we can welcome you.

There are also opportunities to recognize talented young people in the arts and sciences. Each spring, I partner with the Nebraska Art Teachers Association to host the Congressional Art Competition, which is open to all high school students in the Third District. This year's deadline is March 15, and the winning submission from our district will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. My office also participates in the Congressional App Challenge to encourage students interested in coding to create their own apps. All information on these contests is available on my website.

It is important for Third District students to feel connected to their government, and their feedback is invaluable. I hope young Nebraskans will take advantage of the opportunities available through my office and actively engage with me about their ideas for America's future.

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