Dr. Condoleezza Rice and more! January 20, 2013

The highlight of todays events was hearing from distinguished keynote speaker, former U.S. Secretary of State and National Security Advisor to the President, Dr. Condoleezza Rice. After Dr. Rice spoke, I was one of 75 lucky scholars who was able to meet this inspirational leader one on one!

During the Presidential Group Meeting, I, along with fellow students, we educated about the many critical roles that are filled by the President of the United States, including Chief Executive, Commander in Chief, Political Party Leader and Diplomat. We also explored different Presidential campaigns, including some of the roles staff members play as well as the strategies that candidates can use to communicate their platform.  It seems like something people think they know, but this was some of the beyond the scene information that most people are unaware is going on during a campaign.

In the evening, a private screening of the movie All the President’s Men was featured for the students and was followed by a lively panel discussion with renowned Washington Post reporter Bob Woodward and veteran journalist Nick Clooney.  Another wonderful opportunity to gain insight about a historic event in history by two men with a unique perspective.

Our day ended with a briefing on safety procedures and scholar resources while on the National Mall for the Inauguration of President Barack Obama.  And while all of my classmates sleep in today, I'm up at 4:00 a.m. for the big day...