I met dozens of intelligent, fun, and insightful people, obtained vast amounts of knowledge I couldn’t have anywhere else and got to see Washington like I never had before.

Two days after Workshops ended, I changed my major from Psychology to Political Science, and I know now more than ever than my passion is in politics.

I learned how to debate a bill, how to visit my senators and representatives, and how to become, altogether, a more vocal citizen of the United States – What an important gift!

I met a lot of amazing people on this trip that I will be sure to keep in contact with.  The memories created and the experiences shared with thee people are probably my favorite facet of the trip.  The only thing I could wish was different would be a longer duration.

Through the Model Congress exercise, we simulated the duties of a member of Congress, experiencing firsthand the pressures and complexities involved in policymaking. We practiced lobbying, coalition building, and caucusing – all while implementing parliamentary procedure.

The Seminar provided me with a unique view of the people who run Washington, its monuments and memorials, and the laws that regulate it.  The thought that each day I was viewing the same sites and hearing the same sounds that symbolize hope for generations of Americans was awesome.

The WW Seminar taught me to be more confident, daring and open to other ideas.  I learned much about cooperating with others and taking initiative as well as government processes.

Although I am not sure whether I will choose government as a career path, I know that I will always be a more active and aware citizen in whatever career I choose and will be sure to pass on the importance of taking an active role in the government to others.

It was very refreshing to meet so many young people from so many different backgrounds.    Being around such a diverse group gave me the chance to make many friends as well as learn about their respective religious and political backgrounds.

I never thought that I would have an opportunity to openly speak with congressmen and senators about political issues and hear their honest answers.

We were able to hear from truly tremendous speakers who were able to show us their views from all sides of the political spectrum.

Being involved with this program made me realize that anyone, no matter how young or inexperienced, can be a part of the political process; it just takes an inquisitive mind and a desire for knowledge to be able to affect public policy.

I made lifelong connections with intelligent, inspiring, and fun young people who helped make my experience one of a kind

The staff was great. I cannot say I’ve met  more qualified, interesting, and intelligent counselors than the ones that commanded our attention for that week.

Thank you for such a wonderful experience!  I hope that one day my own children will be able to experience a week as great as my week with the Washington Workshops.