Walt Whitman Senior Chosen For Statewide League Of Women Voters Youth Program

SOUTH HUNTINGTON, NY — Walt Whitman High School senior Aryaa Shah has been selected by the Huntington chapter of the League of Women Voters to attend the Students Inside Albany Conference, a prestigious four-day civic education program held May 17–20 in the state capital.

The annual conference brings exceptional high school students from across New York State to Albany to learn about state government, observe the legislative process, and meet and shadow members of the New York State Assembly and Senate. It is the New York State League of Women Voters’ largest youth program, designed to promote informed voting and civic engagement among young people.

Students selected for the program must complete a competitive application process that includes a teacher recommendation and an essay. For Shah, who plans to major in public policy in college and hopes to one day run for local or state office in New York, the opportunity offers a firsthand look at how government works.

Shah has previously interned with Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin and currently works as an intern in the Long Island office of U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer.

“I hope to learn more about the state government process, as New York State makes some of the most influential policy decisions for the rest of the nation,” Shah said. “I hope to talk to a diverse group of students who are also interested in government, learn more about the civic process, shadow an assembly member, and bring more opportunity and representation back home.”

The immersive program introduces students to how policies and laws are proposed, debated, and enacted, while also highlighting ways citizens can influence public policy.

In an era of polarized information, Shah said she wanted to experience government firsthand.

“It’s increasingly difficult to learn about government and our rights as Americans through a less polarizing lens,” she said. “Through my past activities, I have been inspired to bring more civic engagement opportunities to our school district, as it is something that all people share and can participate in, regardless of interests and background. It’s also important to know that there is no person who is not impacted by policy and government.”

A top student at Walt Whitman High School, Shah has helped organize job and volunteer fairs that connect students with civic organizations, nonprofits, advocacy groups, and government agencies throughout Huntington and Long Island, offering opportunities for community service, internships, and career exploration.

Walt Whitman Principal Dr. John Murphy praised Shah’s leadership and commitment to service.

“She has the drive to make her mark not only on her own life, but on the lives of others,” Murphy said. “I’m proud that she has taken a vested interest not only in her own success, but in how her peers and community will remain successful. She has become a voice for her peers, her community, and her generation.”

Each of the nearly 40 local League of Women Voters chapters across New York selects one or more students to attend the Students Inside Albany Conference and covers all expenses. Up to 60 students participate statewide each year.

In selecting Shah, LWV Huntington Youth Committee Co-Chair Deb Cosher called her “essay and accomplishments…outstanding.”