State Sen. Jill N. Tokuda is again putting out the call for students to apply for her annual "A Capitol Experience" internship program for the 2010 legislative session. Open to all Windward O'ahu high school students, the program seeks to provide an intern with a firsthand opportunity to learn about government and the legislative process.

Established in 2007, the internship program offers a paid position to a motivated student who has an interest in government and serving as an advocate for issues they care about.

"We have an important responsibility to provide our youth with opportunities to become engaged in government and to better understand the role they can play in the decision-making process," Tokuda said.

The student who is selected will be assisting the senator and her staff with monitoring legislation, conducting research, assisting with constituent concerns and writing articles about his or her experience for the senator's monthly newsletter.

"The caliber of applicants that apply each year is outstanding. I know that one day these students will be the future leaders of our state," Tokuda said.

Past interns have been Beatrice "Tippe" Morlan and Sommerset Wong in 2007, Bradley Keliinoi in 2008, and Larissa Corales in 2009.

Windward O'ahu high school students who wish to apply for this internship can contact Kamakana Kaimuloa at 587-7215 or via e-mail at k.kaimuloa@capitol.hawaii.gov. Information packets were mailed to all Windward high schools. Applications must be submitted by Dec. 4.