Congressman Henry Cuellar recently announced that the Smithsonian Latino Center is now accepting application from eligible high school seniors for its Young Ambassadors Program.

“My personal experiences in the nation’s Capitol as a young college student shaped my entire life and career,” said Congressman Cuellar. “I encourage young people in South Texas to take advantage of these opportunities to gain real-world skills as well as learn more about arts and culture with a world-class institution like the Smithsonian. Especially in today’s fast paced economy, it is vital that students take the time to explore their academic and professional options.”

Students with an interest in, and commitment to the arts, sciences and humanities as it pertains to Latino communities and cultures are selected to travel to Washington, D.C., for a weeklong seminar at the Smithsonian. Following the week in Washington, students participate in a four-week interdisciplinary internship in museums and cultural institutions in 17 cities across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, including Smithsonian-affiliated organizations.

The Smithsonian Latino Center, and Southwest Airlines cover round-trip airfare to Washington, D.C. Housing, and meals during the one-week training seminar at the Smithsonian Institution will also be provided. The Smithsonian Latino Center will also provided a $2,000 program stipend upon the completion of the one-week training seminar and the four-week internship. It is the applicant’s responsibility to identify and cover housing, transportation, and meals for the duration of the four-week internship component. The Smithsonian Latino Center encourages applicants to select internship sites in their local region where they may be able to stay with family or friends. The program runs from June 22nd to August 1st and the deadline to apply is April 7 at 4:00 pm CDT. For more information visit; www.latino.si.edu/programs/youngambassadors.htm