A Coupeville High School student will enjoy a rare experience when she attends to Seafair in Seattle this summer.

Junior Laura Chan was recently selected to the prestigious Seafair Ambassador program sponsored by the Seafair Foundation, which allows her to participate in Seafair events, provides financial aid for college and includes a trip to Seattle’s sister city in Japan.

“It seems like a really good opportunity,” Chan said. She initially decided to apply for the ambassador program because of the $1,000 scholarship it offers.

She focused on her extensive community service in her application. As a member of National Honor Society, she is active in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Through her involvement in the student group, she helps the Lions Club with fundraisers and volunteers for the Boys and Girls Club Auction and the Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival.

Additionally, she was interviewed by a five-person panel who trimmed the field of candidates to a dozen before settling on the six finest ambassadors.

As ambassador, the six will carry the lead banner in the Torchlight Parade, which takes place in Seattle July 31, as well as participating in the various events that highlight Seattle’s biggest summer celebration.

Then in November, Chan will join the other Seafair Ambassadors for an adventure to Seattle’s sister city, Kobe, Japan. During her week-long visit, she will visit schools, meet leaders and live with a host family.

In addition to her volunteer work, Chan is active in athletics at Coupeville High School, competing on the volleyball and basketball teams. She is also junior class secretary for the high school’s ASB.

She is already thinking about college and hopes to carry on a family tradition by attending Washington State University after she finishes high school. Her dad was a Cougar, her mom was a Cougar and she has several cousins that are Cougars.

The Seafair Ambassador Program will also pair Chan with a business leader who will mentor her on how to best achieve her education and career goals.

She is considering several options for a career including becoming a dental hygienist, an elementary school teacher or a high school teacher.