Here’s What Real Students Have to Say About BRI’s Student Fellowship 

A new program from the Bill of Rights Institute aims to equip high school students nationwide with the tools for their journey to becoming civic leaders. 

The Student Fellowship in Civic Leadership is available to high school juniors and seniors between the ages of 15–18. It includes year-round educational programs, monthly meetings, a weekend trip to Washington, D.C., and an opportunity to network with fellow students from around the country.  

BRI Student Fellows are already providing rave reviews of their experience. 

“Our constant conversations and personal development as well as our introduction to D.C. are foundational experiences that, at least for me, provided important perspective for the way I go about my life and for our futures as we attempt to change America for the better,” said Indiana student Sam Underhill.  

High school senior Flavia Nunez wanted a deeper understanding of American ideals and the role each American plays in furthering these ideals, and the Miami Lakes, Fla., resident believes in having constant conversations about those topics. 

“I am so incredibly satisfied with my time in this fellowship, because not only have I met educators and mentors who engendered growth through meaningful questions, but my fellow ‘fellows’ opened my mind in so many great and unexpected ways,” Nunez said. 

Marissa Matheson described her trip to Washington, D.C. as “the most impactful trip I have ever been on,” and the senior from Missouri added “not only did I learn about history, our government, and our rights from our leaders, but I also learned from my peers.” 

Carson Walker, a high school junior from California, initially wanted to understand the “why” of American politics. He said his trip to Washington, D.C. exceeded his goals and helped him develop a greater appreciation for democracy. 

“We talked about it, we read about it, and we wrote about it,” Walker said. “After the homework and the discussions and even the tours in D.C., I understand why we are where we are as a country.” 

Taryn Murphy admitted she entered her fellowship blind, but eager to learn more about government and she counts politics as one of her primary interests. The New Jersey high school junior will recommend her experience to all her friends – even those who may not know much about civic leadership. 

“I would tell them that I had so much fun meeting everyone, and that being able to connect with other like-minded peers from around the country is a unique and fascinating opportunity,” Murphy said. “I think it was an amazing way to learn more about a field I am already interested in, and can also be a great way for people with less background to gain more insight into a significant field of knowledge.” 

More information on the Student Fellowship in Civic Leadership is available at https://billofrightsinstitute.org/student-fellowship.