Three student journalists from McPherson High School will be traveling to Washington D.C. to attend the Washington Journalism and Media Conference at George Mason University on July 17-22. Juniors Julia Eilert, Heidi Myers and Megan Wiens were nominated to attend, and then were selected to be National Youth Correspondents.

“We get to see and experience the different types of journalism when we go,” Myers said. “Here in McPherson we aren’t exposed to as many types of journalism, so I think opening up will help my knowledge of writing.”

Participants get to hear speeches from top journalists, such as Brian Lamb and Carol Guzy. They also get to visit the National Press Club and attend many different types of panels, from entertainment to sports.

“I think this camp will give me the chance to experience professional journalists at work and the many ways this field can go,” Eilert said. “It’s also really great that we have a chance to travel and go to a great conference.”

The conference is partnered with the Newseum in Washington D.C., a museum that features news related exhibits and educates individuals on the importance of freedom of press. Correspondents will have the chance to visit and see the many interactive levels of the museum.

“Super excited to visit the Newseum and learn about the history of something I’m so interested in,” Wiens said.

In the conference, students are put into small groups and get to discuss what the day’s speakers have talked about as well as bring up new discussions. They also get to participate in a journalism simulation, including a mock press conference.

“I’m excited to meet new people and step out of my comfort zone,” Myers said. “It’s easy for me to write newspaper articles for the high school knowing it’s going to be the same each week, but in the real world it’s going to be different.”

Students are strongly encouraged to blog about their experience every night and use social media to their advantage.

“I’ve always been a blogger, ever since I joined Tumblr when I was twelve,” Wiens. “My parents can experience the excitement from so far away through my blog.”

The trio will continue to write for the High Life through their senior years.