The following letter to the editor was featured in the College of St. Benedict/St. John's University student paper, The Record, on October 19th, 2012.
Dear Editor,
I spent all of last summer living and interning in Washington, D.C. through the CSB-SJU Washington DC Summer Study Program. It was by far the most rewarding experience of my college career. I worked for an environmental think tank researching and writing about the environment, agriculture, and international development. Not only does this fit perfectly with my majors, but it is also the type of setting that I see myself in after college. In D.C., I received incredibly valuable first-hand work knowledge that becomes more and more relevant as I graduate in two years. Additionally, I made long-lasting connections with co-workers, the other Bennies and Johnnies in the program, and CSB/SJU alums.
My summer also included a whole host of memorable opportunities that can only be experienced in the nation’s capital. I spent Memorial Day at Arlington Cemetery, listening to President Obama speak. I toured National Public Radio. I spent my weekends gawking at the many Smithsonian’s and monuments, and I spent the Fourth of July watching fireworks on the Capitol lawn.
As students at CSB/SJU, we are so incredibly lucky to have so many awesome opportunities. At times it is easy to be overwhelmed with how many interesting programs, speakers, and clubs there are to partake in. But, I am writing this letter to encourage any interested students to not let this awesome opportunity pass by. There are so very few like it. I guarantee an unforgettable experience, beneficial professionally, academically, and socially. For more information email dcstudentworker@csbsju.edu.
Best,
Katie Spoden
