Gavin Horton, a sophomore at West Seattle High School, served as a page for the Washington State Senate the week of Jan. 23.
The page program offers a hands-on opportunity for students to find out how state government works. During the week-long interactive learning experience, students get a firsthand look at the legislative process and get to explore the Capitol campus by delivering papers for Senate staff. Along with the practical experience, pages are also taught about local government by staff and guest speakers.
Horton applied to the program because of an existing interest in politics.
“I heard about it from Sen. Nguyễn and his family,” he said. “But, I’ve always had an interest in politics so I thought this would be a great opportunity for me.”
Horton has greatly enjoyed the experience, calling it “one of the coolest things I’ve ever done.”
“It’s a very unique experience. Everyone here is extremely nice, they’re very welcoming. It’s a very positive environment,” he said. “It’s so interesting to see the inner workings of government.”
Sen. Joe Nguyễn (D-White Center) sponsored Horton’s week at the Legislature. Horton said he greatly enjoyed speaking with the Senator.
“He’s one of the nicest people that I’ve ever met,” he said. “He’s very generous, very kind, and he’s a great person to talk to.”
Nguyễn said he enjoyed his time with Horton and believed that he would go on to “make great changes in his community.”
For more information about the Senate Page Program, contact SenatePageProgram@leg.wa.gov.
