Steven Caloiaro found his inspiration in an unlikely place: government class.
"It was in Mr. Longero's (advance placement) government class where I got interested in politics," he said. "It's something I totally enjoy and totally love to do. It's awesome."
The class led to an internship in Sen. John Ensign's, R-Nev., office and the next step is New York City for the Republican National Convention.
Caloiaro, a 2004 Carson High School graduate, was one of three Nevada youths selected to attend.
"I'm really excited," he said. "I want to see how party politics work, as far as adopting a party platform. It's important to unite your party and work toward one goal, especially in an election year."
It's going to cost Caloiaro about $1,500 to attend the convention, a steep price for an 18 year old. But he said it's worth it.
"Even meeting some of the local politicians, I enjoy it. But going to talk to some national people, that's a great experience for a small-town, Carson City boy."
Although he was not involved in high school politics, he plans to run for office at the University of Nevada, Reno, where he has been accepted into the honors college and will attend next year to major in political science.
"Hopefully, it will give me an idea of what it's like to campaign," he said.
After college, he plans to attend law school. And after that, his political career will begin.
"I'd really like to get involved in state government and from there go on to become a state senator," he mused. "Then maybe, from there, president. Who knows?
"My political aspirations are very high."
It may not happen exactly that way, but he's still committed to serving in politics.
"It really puts you in a position where you can truly do good for people," he said. "It's making the place you live and the country as a whole a better place."
Even if there are setbacks along the way.
"It's definitely a risk," he admitted. "But, in life, the only great rewards are going to come by taking some risks."
Contact Teri Vance at tvance@nevadaappeal.com or at 881-1272.
