(Montana)—Recognizing the value of supporting the next generation as they pursue public service careers, U.S. Senators Jon Tester and Steve Daines are encouraging all Montana high school juniors and seniors to apply for the 2018 United States Senate Youth Program.

In the program’s 56th year, two Montana students will be awarded $10,000 scholarships to continue pursuing a higher education relating to politics, history or public affairs. They will also have the opportunity to join 102 other delegates for a week of leadership education and public service in Washington D.C. While in D.C., delegates will have the opportunity to meet with key policymakers and visit political epicenters from Capitol Hill to the State Department.

“This opportunity represents the best our nation has to offer in civic education,” said Tester. “I encourage all Montana students interested in public service to take advantage of this incredible opportunity.”

“The Senate Youth Program has afforded hardworking Montana students a unique opportunity to learn about our nation’s government firsthand,” Daines stated. “I look forward to meeting this year’s students who demonstrate what it means to have that Montana work ethic.”

Since its inception in 1962, the Senate Youth Program has provided a platform for motivated students to excel and continues to produce alumni that succeed in an array of public service careers from U.S. Senators and Congressmen to Foreign Service and Military Officers.

The deadline to apply is October 13, 2017. Interested students can find more information about the application process and selection criteria at http://www.ussenateyouth.org.