So back in my room, settling down before bed… another exhausting day in DC. Before starting our morning at UDC with an introduction by Steve Bell, we entered the auditorium to see that it had been transformed into the set of C-SPAN. Three sessions were filmed, the first of which was shown live on television. For the afternoon session, we met with the 501 advocacy organization, NDN. In the evening, we had a reception at the US Chamber of Commerce, where our Guest of Honor was the legendary journalist, Bob Schieffer. Yet I remain irked… apparently the members of our group were the few who had not received the memo that today was rude student day in DC.
In the morning sessions, while Washington Journal Live with Steve Skulley, and Q&A with Brian Lamb, a number of students from other schools found it necessary to play on their cell phones, play video games, and even intentionally sleep. Although many were being disrespectful, I really enjoyed Washington Journal Live. The answers given were very insightful with regards to the president elect, and the transition from Bush to Obama. I was unfortunately underwhelmed with Mr. and Mrs. Wheeler, the guests of the Q&A section. While providing information about their work with Obama’s campaign, they indirectly answered the questions of Brian Lamb, and those of the audience.
Having some time before the afternoon session, Chelsea and I headed over to Union Station for lunch, and a bit of aimless wandering around the stores within the Center. We truly learned how important it is to know the street layout in DC as we made our way from the metro station to our afternoon site. Listening to NDN founder Simon Rosenberg. I was very displeased with his presentation, Mr. Rosenberg seemed to have better things to do as he repeatedly pulled out his cell phone to check the time. He proceeded to basically bash the Republican party for being racists and intolerants. He claimed that “Not all Republicans are racist, just the party is.” I found this statement to be absolutely appaling.
What should have been a great reception that all of us from Bona’s had been anticipating was ruined by childish behavior from students from other colleges and universities. Three times during his speech about his work in the field of journalism did CBS News Chief Washington Correspondent have to ask the crowd in the back of the room to quiet down. I can’t believe how ridiculous people can be.
Hopefully tomorrow shall shape up to be much better. Our group is lucky enough to have the opportunity to meet with the representative of Algeria. I cannot wait, as I hope to one day work in the international political arena.
