This summer, two Brookhaven High students will have the opportunity to participate in the 2015 Lott Summer Leadership Institute for High School Students.

Juniors Sarah Doty and Jamie Sproles were among five students nominated by BHS to attend. After an online application process of essay questions, Doty and Sproles were chosen by the University of Mississippi program to come to Oxford.

Sproles said they had a couple friends that had previously attended, and she is excited about the opportunity.

“I’ve done speech and debate,” she said. “I really love gaining speech skills.”

Doty, on the other hand, is looking forward to learning more about the political realm.

“I’m looking forward to the political science because that’s my life already,” Doty said referencing her help with her mother, Sen. Sally Doty’s, campaigning efforts.

Doty and Sproles both plan to attend Ole Miss after graduation, so they also see this an opportunity to experience what life will be like on campus.

“[Going to classes] can be intimidating, but getting to go ahead and do that is a great opportunity,” Sproles said.

The leadership program is now in its 15th year and helps students from across the Southeast develop their leadership skills while earning college credit. The program also includes a one-week trip to Washington, D.C., where students will be able to witness government in action and hear from leaders.

Doty is the daughter of Don Doty and Sally Doty. Sproles is the daughter of Tommy and Joanna Sproles.