Jamestown student selected for U.S. Senate Youth Program

"I was having a really long and arduous day," the Jamestown High School senior said in an interview. "I was frustrated with one of my classes. I had been sick a couple of days before. I had missed one of my tests, and I had to make that up, and I was just exhausted because we have swim practice every morning and I get up at 4:15 for that. I just remember not being in a great mood... until I found out."

After a rigorous application process that included a lengthy exam on government and history, Visser learned Dec. 9 that he is one of just 103 students across the nation selected for the program. In March, he'll travel to Washington, D.C., for a week filled with meetings, activities and events designed to develop leadership skills and grow interest in government, political science and public service. He'll also receive a $5,000 college scholarship.

He said he reacted with surprise and excitement, and said it's a testament to the impact that his parents, teachers and other role models have had on him.

"It goes to show how amazing the opportunities and the classes we have are," he said.

One of the activities planned is a banquet that will be attended by many members of the Senate, where Visser said he hopes for the chance to meet Virginia senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner, among others.

"It's an opportunity to have a real conversation face-to-face with the people who are making decisions that are impacting us daily," Visser said.

In a statement to the Gazette, Kaine said he is proud of the Senate Youth Program and what it offers students. "My hope is that we can inspire young Americans to pursue educational and leadership opportunities in public service," he said.

It's something Visser said he is leaning toward as a career, inspired by his father, retired Col. Phil Visser, who recently completed a 30-year career with the U.S. Army.

"I watched my entire life as he rose through the ranks, how giving and sacrificial he was to those he was in charge of," Caleb Visser said. "It was natural for me to want to pursue that example that he set for me. Government itself seems an applicable way where I can serve others, help people and make change happen."

If his academic résumé is any indication, Visser is headed in the right direction. In addition to taking several Advanced Placement classes this year, he serves as president of the Jamestown student government and captain of the boys' swim team. He volunteers with Dream Catchers, was a finalist for Operation Homefront's "Military Child of the Year" award, is a National Merit Scholarship Commended Student and has been honored as an Eagle Scout.

"I look around and I'm optimistic and I appreciate where the world is, but I definitely see there are still flaws," he said. "I definitely would like to effect change and make sure we are moving in the right direction."

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