Being able to go on the Youth Tour was an experience of a lifetime. I was able to make lifelong memories and friendships. It gave me an opportunity to not only learn about Washington, D.C., but it also gave me an opportunity to meet people from all over. During the trip we were able to view many different memorials and monuments as well as tour different museums and landmarks.

When I first received notice that I would be able to attend, I was beyond excited and my expectations were exceeded during the trip. All of the advisors and leaders made sure we got to experience the most we could during the week. They made sure we were able to learn and understand different parts of history and how it affected our country. Everyone who went on the tour was able to see something new, even if they had already been before.

Our week in Washington, D.C., was busy but we were able to get to know each other, as well as people from different states. During the tour we visited the Washington Monument, Abraham Lincoln Memorial, George Washington Memorial, as well as attend a Nationals vs. Cardinals baseball game! We were also able to tour different Smithsonian Museums and walk around the National Mall! I was and will forever be grateful for the opportunity to experience the Youth Tour and create lifelong memories.

To high school sophomores and juniors, I highly encourage you to apply for the 2024 Youth Tour. Thank you to North Carolina’s electric cooperatives for continuing to organize this event annually and to Tideland EMC for selecting me to participate in this wonderful opportunity.

Heather Elizabeth Rogers is the daughter of LeAnne Rogers and the granddaughter of Al and Kathy Markuson. She is a senior at the Northeast Regional School of Biotechnology and Agriscience (NERBSA) and resides in Plymouth.