You could stay home next summer, or you could kick it off with a 10-day trip to Washington, D.C. On Youth Tour, you’ll laugh until your face hurts, crane your neck at tall buildings, stand humbled by national memorials and get inspired by leaders. You’ll love it so much that you’ll weep when it’s over. Need more convincing? Here are 10 reasons to apply for Youth Tour.
1. It’s free.
Your electric cooperative, statewide association and sponsors completely cover the cost of Youth Tour, including airfare, hotels, meals and attractions.
2. It’s fun.
You spend days touring popular attractions in D.C., including memorials, monuments and museums. You’ll go on a cruise on the Potomac River and see a show at the Kennedy Center.
3. You get to travel.
You get to leave your summer job, siblings and routine behind for 10 days! No making your bed for 10 days!
4. You meet new people.
You’ll make new friends from among the more than 1,700 teens from across the nation, including more than 145 from all over Texas.
5. You get a classic American adventure.
Washington, D.C., is rich in history and heritage. That’s why Youth Tour was created more than 50 years ago, inspired by Lyndon B. Johnson, to give you the opportunity to discover “what the flag stands for and represents.”
6. You learn a lot.
You are surrounded by venues that focus on science, art, history, space, American culture and so much more. You return home with a ton of newfound knowledge.
7. You can gain leadership experience.
Any Youth Tour participant can apply to be on the national Youth Leadership Council. One student selected from each state returns to D.C. in July for a leadership workshop.
8. You can make your voice heard.
You spend a day on Capitol Hill and meet with your elected officials. You get face time with some of the most powerful people in the nation and an opportunity to talk about what’s important to you and your community.
9. You can put it on your résumé.
When you apply for college or a job, Youth Tour can help you stand out. The trip offers experiences that can shape your college application, essays and career path.
10. You connect with opportunity.
You get plugged into the electric co-op community and are in a great position to learn about scholarships, internships and jobs offered through this network.
