By By Adrienne McKenzie
Escambia County High School sophomore Tray Smith left for a three-week journey Sunday to Washington, D.C. to peak his political interests and in doing so he will also earn college credits.
Smith left for Georgetown University to attend Junior Statesmen Summer School where he will partake in many different activities and classes.
"I'm going to take an AP (advanced placement) course in U.S. government and politics," Smith said. "It also counts as college credit. We will visit Capitol Hill for five days throughout the three weeks that I am there. We will observe Congress in session. We will also have congressmen and senators visit us at Georgetown to speak to our group. I am not sure who will be our speakers, but Trent Lott, John McCain, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have been there in the past."
While at Georgetown University Smith will also be a part of a Congressional seminar that simulates the United States Congress.
"We will participate in Congressional workshops in which we will set up a mock Congress and debate with our fellow students on issues that are being debated in the U.S. Congress today," Smith said.
Smith said ECHS principal Kyle Ferguson suggested he participate in the Junior Statesmen Summer School program.
"Mr. Ferguson nominated me for this program because he is aware of my interest in politics," Smith said.
Smith had to complete a few assignments before even attending the program, he said.
"Before I arrive at Georgetown I have to complete an assignment," Smith said. "I have to fill out a form stating my opinion of 25 political issues. I then have to choose the Top 10 issues that concern me the most. They (program officials) will choose from my Top 10 which issues I'll debate in the Congressional workshop. I also have to run off articles from newspapers or magazines about five of the issues and turn those in. I will submit some of the articles I have previously written for The Atmore Advance for that purpose."
Smith said in an interview last Thursday that he was excited about the trip to Georgetown and that he intended on taking to heart everything that occurs while he is there.
"I am looking forward to being in Washington, D.C., and taking advantage of the opportunities in the Junior Statesmen Summer School program," Smith said. "I feel like the experience will be a great addition to my resume and will allow me to learn about government and politics from those that work in the nation's Capitol each and every day."
Smith said he was also looking forward to the socialization part of the program.
"Most importantly, I will be able to meet and socialize with students from around the country that share my interest in current events."