After intense competition of a number of highly qualified candidates, two Jefferson students were nominated for the Jefferson Scholars Foundation program at the University of Virginia (UVa.).

Seniors Robert Young and Will Ashe were chosen by a committee of teachers after an arduous process.  The application included an essay and a resume, as well as an interview for each of the four finalists.

“I consider myself lucky to be chosen, as there were definitely more than two qualified candidates who applied,” Ashe said.

At UVa., the program fosters leadership skills throughout the four years.  At the beginning of the first year, Jefferson Scholars participate in a challenge course.  After the first year, they attend a summer leadership seminar.  Additionally, the program offers scholars a travel program, internships and other enrichment events.  The Jefferson Scholars Foundation also awards each scholar with full tuition at UVa.

“I applied to be a Jefferson Scholar because I am always looking to improve my leadership skills, and the program provides opportunities to grow with and learn from other great leaders,” Ashe said.

After being selected by the school, applicants go through the regional selection.  Once the students’ transcripts, extracurricular activities, essays and recommendations are reviewed, a group of 115 finalists are chosen.  In March, the finalists attend a selection weekend, in which the students participate in seminars, tests, essays and interviews before 33 are chosen to be Jefferson Scholars.

“It’s such an honor to be nominated by the committee at Jefferson,” Young said.  “Now I think it’s important that I do my best since I’m not only representing myself, but also the school.”