Southwest Student Joins Scholar Program

Southwest High School junior Jessica Trevarthen was accepted as a Wisconsin Senate Scholar in December 2025.

The Senate Scholar program is an rigorous week-long educational program offered by the Wisconsin State Senate.

Admission to the program is highly competitive and is limited to 33 academically exceptional high school juniors and seniors from around Wisconsin.

Trevarthen said this program will support her explore her career goals as a future lawyer or politician.

"I have always loved social studies/history, so I am extremely excited to have been 1 of 33 chosen to have a hands-on view of our Legislature through this opportunity," Trevarthen said. "I believe it will be an excellent introduction into a political science career path, as I am interested in possibly becoming a lawyer or politician. Some of the things I am most excited for through this program is interning as a messenger for a Senate Floor Session, as well as participating in a Mock Committee hearing." 

Senate Scholars get hands-on experience in the Legislature and learn about policy development, constituent relations, and processing legislation by working with Senators, legislative staff and University of Wisconsin faculty.

During the program, Senate Scholars participate in mock legislative activities, such as bill and amendment drafting, policy analysis, fiscal analysis, constituent communications, and lobbying.

Eligibility for the program requires "outstanding academic qualifications."

Trevarthen said she will participate in the program January 11-16, 2026.