Samuel Clemens High School junior Brook Merritt is trading Friday night lights for a front-row seat to history.
Brook has been selected for a prestigious U.S. Senate internship. She will fill one of only 30 student positions available across the country.
Brook will leave for the nation’s capital in early September and remain there through January. During her time in Washington, she will attend classes while supporting the daily work of the Senate. Interns deliver legislative materials, prepare the Senate Chamber and assist senators and staff during debates and roll-call votes.
The opportunity is the result of more than two years of preparation, research and determination. After learning about the program, Brook researched the application process, contacted Senate offices and continued building her experience through service and leadership opportunities. She ultimately earned the endorsement of U.S. Senator Ted Cruz and was accepted into the fall program.
“I’m super excited about this opportunity that I’ve been dreaming about for years! Now that it has become a reality, I’m also a little nervous because it’s a new city for me and there’s going to be a lot to learn, but again I’m super excited! Brook said.
Brook will take an impressive list of experiences with her to Washington. At Clemens, she serves as Class of 2028 president and is involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, varsity cheer, varsity pole vault, varsity choir, DECA and Model United Nations.
Her leadership also extends beyond campus. Brook has served on the Cibolo Youth City Council and participated in the Seguin Area Youth Leadership Academy. Through the National Hispanic Institute, she has competed in and helped lead youth programs focused on debate, mock trial and leadership. This summer, she was elected as one of nine Supreme Court justices during the Lorenzo de Zavala Youth Legislative Session and was recognized as one of its top three judges.
As Miss Inspire through the Miss Cibolo Scholarship Pageant, Brook also created a passion project designed to help younger girls build confidence, use their voices and dream big.
Now, it is Brook’s turn to pursue one of her own big dreams.
“She was, like, 13, I think, when she asked,” said Brook’s mother, Debbie Cura. “And I said, ‘Brook, I’m not ready for you to leave.’”
Brook plans to return to Clemens in January with a semester’s worth of new experiences, stories and memories. SCUC ISD is proud to celebrate this remarkable accomplishment and wishes her well as she begins her next adventure.
Before leaving, Brook spoke with KSAT 12 about the opportunity and the journey that led her to Washington. Watch Brook’s KSAT 12 story here.
What will it be like to attend school at 6 a.m., work inside the U.S. Capitol and witness the Senate in action?
We cannot wait to ask her.
Stay tuned. Brook’s story is just getting started.