Today was the last full day of the Washington Journalism and Media Conference. I am so sad that this experience is coming to an end. I have made so many amazing friends and learned so much useful information during my time in Washington. Today was bittersweet knowing that this was the last day to fully enjoy the company of my friends and colleagues.
The day began with a lecture from a first amendment lawyer who talked about the Student Press Law Center (SPLC) and its importance. I knew most of this because we learned it in Journalism this past year (Thanks Mrs. Carey!). We then listened to a panel of interns talk about the importance of internships during the college years.
We then went to Capitol Hill where we were able to go meet our Congressmen or Senators. I was lucky enough to meet and talk to Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. It was a unique experience meeting the Senator, although it was a lot different then what I thought it was going to be. It made me realize I do not want to get involved in politics.
After Capitol Hill we came back to the dorms in order to prepare for the WJMC gala. It was so much fun to get ready; it almost felt like prom. All of my friends got ready in my suite and I was lucky enough to have the help of one of my suite mates to help with my hair and my makeup.
The gala itself was so much fun. It was so much fun seeing everyone let loose, especially the advisors. Sadly, the gala ended at 11, although not before Dean Flagen danced to “Party in the U.S.A.” After the gala there was a huge pizza party in the dorm room courtyard until midnight. Overall it was an amazingly fun night. I will never forget it.
Sadly, I will be leaving tomorrow to go home. Hopefully I will be able to keep in touch with all of my new friends. I have enjoyed this amazing experience I was lucky enough to be a part of and hope that next year I can be part of the board that organizes the conference. Until then, I am going to try and make it through tomorrow without crying. I will let you know tomorrow if I was successful.
Until next time,
Katie
