MISSISSIPPI STATE – Mississippi 4-H is looking for four outstanding young people to work in state government for one week in March during the 2013 legislative session.

The Mississippi State University Extension Service 4-H program and the Extension Center for Government and Community Development are looking for qualified 4-H’ers to serve in the 2013 Legislative Page Internship Program. They will work with the Mississippi Senate during the week of March 11-15.

“We make this opportunity available each year so our 4-H youth have a chance to see for themselves how state government works by serving in the capitol,” said Anne Hilbun, the Extension governmental training specialist who is overseeing the program.

Applicants must be 4-H members in high school or college freshmen and be between the ages of 14 and 19 as of Jan. 1. They must have at least a B average in their classes. Applicants must express their knowledge of, involvement with and interest in issues relating to citizenship, leadership and governmental functions. Typically, two male and two female 4-H’ers are chosen for the positions.

Participating youth must agree to abide by behavioral standards expected of 4-H members. Mailed applications must be postmarked no later than Jan. 30, and faxed applications must be received by 5 p.m. that day. Forms are available at county Extension offices.

For 20 years, 4-H and the Extension Center for Government and Community Development have offered this opportunity to qualified youths. 4-H will provide lodging at a nearby hotel, accidental insurance and a chaperone.

For information about the 4-H legislative page program, contact Hilbun at (662) 325-3141 or anneh@ext.msstate.edu.