On October 13 of this past year, Jack Hattamer ‘17 received a phone call that would change his life. On the other end of the line was the head of the nationally-known United States Capitol Page Program, announcing that he was one of thirty kids from across the nation who had been accepted for their Spring program.

Hattamer traveled to Washington D.C. at the end of January to participate as a Page for the United States Senate and will work alongside Senators for the length of the semester. His last day in New Hampshire was the twenty-ninth of last month, yet the program officially began on the first of February. “I’m going to be working at the Capitol for five months,” said Hattamer “I will also be going to a special school [for the students in the Page Program], so I won’t get behind academically.”

The prestigious Page Program originated in the late 1800s and was designed to aid with senatorial communication. Present-day Pages act as messengers, but are also given other privileges. “My main job is setting up the Senate Chambers before they meet, and delivering messages back and forth between senators,” said Hattamer “I will have more responsibilities and know more about my tasks when we begin.”

The application process for the program is simple, yet fairly difficult to undergo. Since there are only 30 Pages, potential delegates need to go above and beyond in order to stand out from other applicants. Hattamer recalled that he had to provide answers to quite simple prompts, including “Why are you interested in the Page Program,” and “Why do you feel you are the best candidate for the program?” Additionally, he needed to provide a copy of his high school transcript and maintain a certain grade point average throughout the previous semester. “It almost felt like I was applying to a college,” said Hattamer.

To be considered for a spot in the program, Hattamer needed to be sponsored by a New Hampshire Senator. He reached out to Kelly Ayotte, who reviewed his application and wrote a letter of recommendation, describing why Hattamer was a fit for the program. Ayotte received several applications, but chose Hattamer as the best candidate. It is possible that there could be another delegate from New Hampshire, since both State Senators are able to sponsor a student. However, the likelihood that another student will be from New Hampshire is very slim.
As the date approaches, Hattamer has become increasingly anxious to begin. He expects to learn a lot about government and how to become more independent. “I’m very excited and honored for the opportunity to be in D.C. and to work in the Capitol,” Hattamer said “I’m going to be doing things many people do not get the chance to experience.”