How to Become a Congressional Page

Congressional Pages play an important role in the functioning of the United States Congress. They assist members of Congress with various tasks and gain valuable firsthand experience of the legislative process. Becoming a Congressional Page is a prestigious and highly competitive opportunity for young individuals interested in politics and government. In this article, we will discuss the steps you can take to become a Congressional Page.

Eligibility Requirements

The House and Senate each have their own requirements for Congressional Pages. However, both houses generally have similar eligibility criteria, which are as follows:

• You must be a U.S. citizen
• You must be a high school junior (at least 16 years old) at the time of appointment
• You must have a GPA of at least 3.0
• You must have excellent academic and personal recommendations
• You must have a record of good conduct

It is important to note that these are minimum requirements and that the selection process is highly competitive. It is also recommended to have a strong interest in politics and government, and experience in extracurricular activities such as student government or debate can strengthen your application.

Application Process

The application process for the House and Senate Pages differs slightly. For the House, the application process is handled by the Office of the House Page Board, while the Senate manages its own process. Generally, the application process includes the following steps:

1. Research the Application Timelines

The application process for the House and Senate Pages typically begins in the fall of the preceding year. It is important to research the timelines and deadlines for each house to ensure you do not miss any important dates.

2. Gather Required Documents

Most likely, you will be required to submit an official transcript, a letter of recommendation, a photo, and an essay as part of your application. Be sure to have these documents ready before the deadline.

3. Complete an Online Application

Both houses have an online application process. The House application can be found on the House Page Program website, while the Senate application process can be accessed through the Senate Page School website. Make sure to provide accurate and honest information in your application.

4. Submit Application

Once you have completed the online application and gathered all necessary documents, it is time to submit your application. The application deadline is usually in December, so make sure to submit it before the deadline.

5. Wait for Results

After submitting your application, you will have to wait for the selection committee’s decision. If you are selected, you will receive an offer of appointment to either the House or Senate Page Program.

The Congressional Page Experience

The Congressional Page Program is a 24-week session held for juniors in high school during their second semester. Pagers are appointed and sponsored by a member of Congress to work in Washington, D.C. Pagers are required to attend school at the Senate Page School or the House Page School, located near Capitol Hill, five days a week from Monday to Friday.

The Page experience involves a combination of academic classes, such as American government, and work assignments, such as delivering documents and messages between members of Congress. Largely, Pagers are responsible for ensuring the smooth running of activities on the House or Senate floor. Additionally, Pagers are excused from their duties for two weeks to participate in an intensive summer session in which they engage in small group conversations with prominent leaders and have the opportunity to explore Washington, D.C.

Benefits of Becoming a Congressional Page

Becoming a Congressional Page provides several benefits, such as:

• Firsthand experience of the legislative process
• Networking opportunities with members of Congress
• The opportunity to work and live in Washington, D.C.
• Valuable skills such as time management, communication, and teamwork
• A competitive edge in college and job applications

In Conclusion

Becoming a Congressional Page is a highly competitive and prestigious opportunity for high school juniors. It requires dedication, hard work, and a strong interest in politics and government. If you meet the eligibility requirements and go through the application process successfully, you can gain valuable experience and benefits that will set you apart in your future endeavors. Good luck in your journey to become a Congressional Page!