The D.C. Council Youth Internship Program is providing eight students with internships this summer.

The program, established by Chairman Vincent C. Gray, places D.C. students in the internship, which takes place at the John A. Wilson Building. According to an article by The Washington Times, high school juniors and seniors are given professional and educational experience in the council's central offices. Interns are managed by the Office of Youth Programs.

"Youth are at the heart of the community" Cedric Jennings, director of Youth Programs, said in the article. "We expect our interns to provide fresh ideas and insight into their age groups. In turn, we plan to provide District youth with a unique opportunity to learn about the nuts-and-bolts work of the legislative branch of government."

The internship allows students to gain inside knowledge and experience. Interns receive training in such subjects as customer relations, etiquette and public speaking. They're also required to volunteer with community service projects.

Internships are offered not only to students with good grades, but to those who also demonstrate leadership skills and are involved in the community. This summer 100 students applied for internships.

"I was extremely pleased about the high interest and competition for the intern slots among the city's youth," Gray said in the article. "We've been able to select young people with varied interests, those who have excelled academically, students who already have shown a commitment to serving the community, and many we expect to become leaders in government or in whatever careers they choose."