West Chester, Pa (May 18, 2026) – Twenty-four students from across Chester County recently got a firsthand look at what it’s like to work in the Pennsylvania Senate as part of State Senator Carolyn Comitta’s Student Advisory Council.
Now in its fourth year, the council brought together high school juniors from West Chester Area, Tredyffrin-Easttown, Great Valley, Downingtown Area, and Avon Grove School Districts, as well as students from the Episcopal Academy, the Baldwin School, and Fusion Academy to learn about state government and share their views, interests, and perspectives. Over the 12-week period, they learned about the operations of Senator Comitta’s office including developing legislative ideas, crafting media and communications strategies, understanding the budget process, and more.
“As we wrap up the fourth year of our Student Advisory Council, it continues to be a highlight of my role as State Senator. Listening to and working with such driven, confident, and creative students in District 19 is eye-opening and inspiring,” said Comitta, a former public-school teacher who serves on the Senate Education Committee. “I learn so much from the young people on our council and I can’t wait to see what they achieve in the future.”
The program culminated this spring with each student pitching their own legislative proposals. Topics ranged from expanding cancer screenings to establishing farm-to-table tax credits to placing social workers in libraries.
Hannah Diem, a West Chester East High School student and class president, called her experience on the council impactful.
“I learned about the functions of state government from professionals, the senator and her incredible staff. The council developed my knowledge of government and politics while also allowing me to openly share what I cared about most and the changes I wish to see in my community,” said Diem, who proposed closing loopholes in private equity and healthcare as her legislative idea.
The students participated in activities including touring the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg, volunteering at the West Chester Food Cupboard, meeting with a leading lobbyist to learn about effective advocacy, participating in a Senate Mock Policy Hearing, and advocating for legislation that they believe Senator Comitta should co-sponsor.
Jack Myers, a Conestoga High School student, cross-country team member, and a cappella singer, reflected on the connections he made through the program. He presented a proposal for a permit-to-purchase firearm system.
“My favorite part about the Student Advisory Council was getting to meet so many amazing people. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable about state-level government and public policy, and the members of the council were passionate about making change in our community,” Myers said. “I built meaningful friendships and still stay in contact with many of the people I met. The experience inspired me to think more creatively about solutions to the issues we face in Pennsylvania.”
Each year, Senator Comitta hosts the Student Advisory Council from January to April, with applications opening in November. For more information contact: senator.comitta@pasenate.com.
###