Let's Get Political

This past weekend I realized it has been a bit over a month since I came to Washington, DC only knowing two people. And luckily after a month this is no longer true. Through the different programs offered through The Washington Center, I have been able to network amongst my peers. The setup of the program enables students with all types of backgrounds and perspectives to interact. I have never been exposed to such a breadth of viewpoints, especially on politics, which is of course the most popular and controversial topic this season.

It is such an amazing opportunity to be in Washington, DC during such a political period. This election not only strikes the interest of citizens of the United States, but is also greatly followed by viewers from all around the world. By surrounding myself with such a diverse collection of students, I have been able to listen to the concerns and political positions of international students. After several debate parties held by my peers in Grosvenor Tower, I feel well exposed to the goods and bads of both politicians.

The soon-to-be home of the next president

Those who are studying in Washington, DC this semester are probably able to see how anything can be turned political. The advertisements in Metro, Washington tourist memorabilia, magazines, t-shirts and the morning conversation at my internship are just to name a few. Let’s not forget the MTV music awards when Shakira expressed her confidence in Obama as president. This was definitely a hit in the Metro Express paper the next morning.

Just this past weekend, I spent some time with some students from The Washington Center for a fun night out. While the topic of politics was avoided all night, some found discussing the candidates a good way to get to know someone for the first time. I found that to be an awful idea, of course. The incident turned into an argument with petty jokes about one student’s candidate of choice. That was DEFINITELY an easy way to ruin a great night. The petty jokes eventually resulted in the culprit leaving the apartment. Luckily, the night continued.

While in DC, I am looking forward to working on a campaign for my civic engagement. Of course, this is the most popular choice for civic engagement this semester. If it were not for this big election I would have definitely been involved with immigration or another issue instead. Both campaign groups are heading to Virginia to knock on doors of residents and make excessive phone calls to encourage people to vote Obama or McCain. The weekend before November will be an active weekend for both campaign groups who will work hard to get people out to vote.

Meanwhile, let us relax a little. Everything does not have to be so political.