BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Students from several area high schools were chosen to attend the 2008 session of Alabama Governor’s School at Samford University June 15-27. A total of 78 students from 49 high schools in 27 counties attended the two-week honors program for rising high school seniors.

Participants included Bayside Academy students Hillary Donnell, Angus Gambill, Jackie Pober Citrin and Ian Shields; McGill-Toolen Catholic High School students Erica de Veer and Eileen V. Jorns, Daphne High School student Max Ryan and Foley High School student Bianca Scott. Governor’s School participants received college level experience in academics, creativity and leadership. Each student selected major and minor areas of coursework. The 16-course topics for morning and afternoon sessions included the arts, law, health and science-related subjects, history and other areas of interest.

The students also participated in recreational activities and attended a Birmingham Barons baseball game and a production of “The Count of Monte Cristo” at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival in Montgomery.

Governor’s School students are nominated by their schools on the basis of academic ability, leadership qualities, creativity and community service. Selection is also based on teacher and guidance counselor nominations, and a student-written essay.