This summer Eagle Eye editor Zack Webster will attend the prestigious Washington Journalism and Media Conference (WJMC) sponsored by George Mason University and the Newseum. The program welcomes high school student leaders from all over the country as National Youth Correspondents each summer to Washington D.C. from July 9-14.

Webster was nominated by Eagle Eye instructor Todd Cammarata for his work and effort displayed in the school newspaper.

“I’m very excited for Zack. This is a great opportunity for him to improve his writing, photography and other journalism skills. I am hoping that he brings back a lot of information and knowledge to share with our staff next year,” said Cammarata.

According to the conference website, the curriculum includes hands-on learning with industry leaders from the George Mason faculty as well as international media outlets and Washington insiders.

Participants will learn from some leading experts in the journalism field, including special guests Susan Goldberg, the Editor in Chief of National Geographic, and Brian Lamb, the president of C-Span, and many more (Click here to see a full list of the guest speakers).

Webster is one of 500 students accepted into the program. Webster was very excited to learn that he had been accepted into the program.

“I just got a letter in the mail and when I opened it up I was very overwhelmed, the opportunity is very exciting,” said Webster.

The cost of the week long program is $1965. Over the year Webster reached out to the community to help raise money for the trip.

“I sent out over 30 letters to family and businesses asking for donations and I received enough to pay forth towards the tuition and then the rest I payed out of pocket,” said Webster.

The program includes a fairly packed schedule including scheduled pick up times, eating times and multiple speakers as well as sessions to discuss the career of journalism. After the trip Webster is hoping to improve his writing and improved his general sense of corporate journalism, but most importantly have fun and make connections during the trip.