Caitlin Finley, a sophomore at Eastlake High School, took time away from her studies to participate in the Senate Page Program recently.

She was sponsored by the Senate Republican Caucus.

The Senate Page Program is an opportunity for Washington students between the ages of 14 and 16 to spend a week working in the Legislature.

Pages are responsible for such tasks as running errands and delivering mail.

They spend time in the Senate Chamber and in page school learning about parliamentary procedure and the legislative process.

Finley was one of 22 students who participated in the program during the twelfth week of the 2009 legislative session.

“It’s great to see students like Caitlin take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn about state government,” said James Troyer, Chief of Staff for the Senate Republican Caucus.

Finley knew about the program from her aunt who works at the Capitol and a cousin who enjoyed working as a page.

“It sounded like a great opportunity to meet new people and see how state government is run,” she said. “I also knew it would look good on a college transcript.”

Finley enjoyed her week and encourages students thinking about applying not to be nervous.

“It might seem intimidating, but I really enjoyed it. Everyone here is so nice!”

In her spare time, Finley stays active running, skiing and playing soccer.

She is also a member of the National Honor Society.

Finley, who is considering a career in architecture, broadcast journalism or politics, is the daughter of Patti and Tod Finley of Sammamish.

Junior high and high school students who are interested in the Senate Page Program are encouraged to visit www.leg.wa.gov/Senate/Administration/PageProgram/.