Madison student tapped for Senate program
MADISON — A Madison Central senior says she jumped at the opportunity to connect with other students nationwide in the U.S. Senate Youth Program.
Emily Adcock went through a lengthy application process including interviews.
“It has been really cool getting to engage with the other delegates from across the country,” Adcock said.
To secure her seat at the table, Adcock had to undergo a lengthy application process that included a U.S. civics test, an essay and interviews with members of the state’s department of education.
Her parents, Michael and Sarah Adcock, said that they are proud of their daughter.
“It was a pretty involved process she had to write essays and take government and civics exam,” Sarah Adcock said. “She worked very hard on this.”
Michael Adcock added, “Obviously we are really proud of her.”
State Superintendent of Education, Dr. Carey Wright designated the Mississippi delegates and alternates from students nominated by teachers and principals.
Adcock will be joined by Vaibhavi Jayant Mahajan of Brandon, a student at Northwest Rankin High School.
“I commend Emily and Vaibhavi for being chosen for the Senate Youth Program. It is a tremendous achievement, and I look forward to speaking with them,” Sen. Roger Wicker said.
The USSYP Washington Week will include 104 student delegates from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Activity. USSYP participants will have online meetings and briefings with members of the Senate, President Biden, a justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, leaders of cabinet agencies, and the media.
“Hearing from the national leaders we will hear from is an opportunity I did not want to miss,” Adcock said. “I am really interested in gaining some insight into the perspectives of our national leaders and policymakers.
Adcock and Mahajan are scheduled to meet Wicker and Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith virtually as part of their participation in the 2022 USSYP Washington Week on March 6 through March 9.
“Both Emily and Vaibhavi shine in their determination, dedication, and passion for not only academics, but in student government, community service, and other extracurricular activities,” Hyde-Smith said.
Each will also receive a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship from the non-profit Hearst Foundations, which funds the program.
Adcock is an active student at MCHS. She is secretary of the Beta Club, and a delegate for the Mississippi Youth Legislature. She serves as president of the Jag Buddies Club and is an active member of the National Honor Society, Women’s Empowerment Club, Advocates for Change, and the Symphonic Band. Adcock is also a National Merit semifinalist and Color Guard captain for her high school marching band.