Nationals in the Nation's Capitol

No matter how many times I come to Washington, DC, my experiences are always unique and distinct. Having lived in DC for over 7 months, it felt great to return, and even more exciting to be coming for an Honors Conference, the last national conference I will get to attend as a Columbia College undergrad.

Though Honors conferences have taken me from Charlotte to Denver to Birmingham to St. Petersburg, none have surpassed the integrity and diversity of the conference this year in DC. Raised as a global citizen, it was amazing to finally see the nation's capital become one of the world's capitals. Enriched with a global focus, the content of the sessions this year pointed out how Honors programs across the nation are understanding the importance of cross-cultural interaction, broadening of horizons, and respect and understanding of the unknown.

Of course, of particular note, was the political junkie's ideal entertainment, the Capitol Steps performance satirizing current political events, which kept us rolling with laughter for a pleasant evening of after-dinner theatre, without the need to leave the hotel. Dessert afterwards sealed the deal.

After being a bystander for two and a half years, it was a rewarding experience to work behind the scenes and help bring the masterpiece to life. Draft after draft of schedules, maps, and e-mails finally became NCHC 2009. Furthermore, it was gratifying to see how much influence one of our own Columbia College members has, how much respect was afforded to this year's planner of the conference, Dr. John Z.

As I look over the day, I can't help but feel a calm satisfaction at having dedicated and devoted my college years to academic excellence through the Honors program. I am proud to be here representing my college, but I am even more excited about sharing it with our cheerleaders back home. We strive for you to not do more, but better.