This year, MidSouth Electric Cooperative will send five high school juniors and seniors on an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., to tour our nation’s capital, meet with members of congress and network with other high school students. Applications for the 2026 Government-in-Action Youth Tour are now open. Here are 10 reasons your student should apply.
1. The entire trip is paid for by your electric cooperative. As part of our commitment to community and our next generation of leaders, MidSouth EC covers the cost of airfare, lodging, attractions and all meals.
2. A $2,000 scholarship. MidSouth Youth Tour delegates also receive scholarships toward their tuition at a college, university or trade school.
3. A jam-packed itinerary. Once your child lands in Washington, they hit the ground running! During the seven-day trip, students will tour national landmarks, museums and historical sites. Favorite stops from our previous delegates include the Museum of the Bible, Smithsonian Institution museums, a performance at the Kennedy Center and a sunset river cruise on the Potomac!
4. Students meet with the decision-makers on Capitol Hill. Youth Tour delegates have the opportunity to visit the office of their elected U.S. representatives while also touring the Capitol, Library of Congress and Supreme Court.
5. Youth Tour looks great on a résumé or college application. As one of the few hand-selected students to attend Youth Tour, your child will stand out to educational institutions, future employers and scholarship committees. Their experience will be a unique topic for essays and applications.
6. New friends—some even lifelong! Participants meet with other young co-op representatives from across the nation with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Some of MidSouth EC’s very own Youth Tour alumni are still best friends years after their trip.
7. Students gain leadership experience. Once accepted into Youth Tour, students can extend their leadership skills even further by applying to be a wreath-layer for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier ceremony or representing Texas on the Youth Leadership Council.
8. Endless networking opportunities. Valuable connections are made during Youth Tour. Participants often return to the capital or electric co-ops at a local, state or national level for internships or careers. Chaperones on the trip make great references and letters of recommendation.
9. A taste of freedom. For some teens, this is the first extended trip away from parents and family. Youth Tour lets your child safely spread their wings before they fly the nest.
10. They call it the trip of a lifetime! Only a select few get the opportunity to represent our co-op each year. The attractions visited, friendships established and memories made are priceless.
Does this sound like something your teen would be interested in? Visit midsouthelectric.com/scholarships-youth-tour to find more information and apply to be a 2026 Government-in-Action Youth Tour representative.
