How can you summarize a summer in Washington? This summer marked several firsts: my first true dorm experience, first experience as a bachelor (cooking, cleaning, laundering, etc.), and my first experience in a seven years entering an entirely new work environment.
I ate dozens of granola bars, walked nearly 100 miles, mastered eating on the run, and spent over $135 on subway fares. And yes, I am now able to read the morning paper while riding the metro and still make all of the necessary connections. I’m even pretty good at staying upright without holding on. But now I am bordering on bragging, so I’ll move on.
I want to publicly praise God for the wonderful opportunities I had in DC. I visited a lot of interesting places and attended many interesting lectures and press conferences. My favorite memories from work are going to the White House, getting a very cool behind-the-scenes tour of the National Cathedral, and covering the convention of world leaders’ chefs. I was blessed to discover my photos in print in some major newspapers–The Chicago Tribune, The Boston Globe, The Houston Chronicle, The Denver Post, and The St Paul Pioneer Press.
My Economics in Public Policy class was another highlight of the summer. Dr. Rustici did a masterful job of communicating free market concepts during our eight week class. He often explained that he was building our "economic logic" so that we could think for ourselves about economic issues. I have seen the benefit of his approach. The way I listen to economic reporting and think about economic issues is forever changed. My parents can attest that they often get economics lessons, whether they want them or not. The extracurricular special speakers and forums that TFAS organized were often valuable as well.
My activities in class and at work have given me a better context for understanding politics. I am perhaps most thankful for the people I met this summer. I now have a wealth of friends scattered at schools across the country. Through the miracle of instant messaging and email I am able to keep in touch with many of them. God has been very good to me.
Thank you for your interest.