Getting Closer....

Well, two days from departure and I'm beginning to get an idea of what Megan was feeling (stressed, nervous, insanely excited, unable to sleep etc). I's funny that these feelings didn't really hit me until now--probably better that way anyhow... Last night was our A400M Night at the Riverhawks Game followed by a rousing time of singing at RBI (for those of you non-HS/non-Rockfordians--A400m being the program I worked on all summer pulling parts for/RBI being the former varsity diner and also a very happening place on Thursday nights). After having to get my finger prints taken AGAIN (it's always something) and running a ton of errands yesterday, I'm one step closer to leaving... Though these next few days promise to be as stressful if not more so. (Good thing I have a massage scheduled this afternoon!) As far as updates go, I was kind of vague on my internship last time. More specifically, I will be working in the DHS's Immigration and Customs Enforcement Office Of International Affairs. Say that 3 times fast... I dare you. Still not sure what I'll be doing once I get there, but I'll keep you all posted.

Also, yesterday I found out that I was accepted to the LIFT DC program. LIFT DC is a new leadership/service program that is in it's first year at The Washington Center. Basically, here's the summary I was given when I applied to the program:

Participants will be asked to plan and perform a community service project within assigned groups. During the program, a one-day Leadership Institute will be conducted to provide leadership training and guidance in completing the community service projects. In addition, biweekly meetings and two follow-up leadership workshop activities will be conducted to assist students with their service projects. The Leadership Institute will be facilitated by invited student life professionals, and MBS Resident Assistants will facilitate the follow-up discussions and provide resources and support as participants carry out their projects. It will be each group's responsibility to individually meet and plan the community service project. Participation with LIFT will satisfy the studentÂ’s programmatic civic engagement requirement.

I think the biggest factor that drew me to this program besides yet another way to meet people out there is also that I will get to be part of the inaugural class of LIFT DC and therefore have the ability to watch it take shape and make it into something substantially effective. Additionally, I am excited to be able to help organize a community service project based on both my interests and issues that I see are pressing in the DC area.


I think that's all for now. Tonight I'm going down to U of I to say farewells to my favorite people there/at ISU. Still so much to do...

Oh and because I miss Xanga-zon:

I am currently reading A Heart-breaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers. It is phenomenal. You should read it.

Okay, goodbye really. :)

Love,

aim