I was lucky enough to participate in the Model American Congress exchange program with ACYPL– a trip that that helped me to clarify why I am very passionate about politics even in this early stage of my 20s.  While it may be a bold statement to say, “I know exactly what I need to do in my future,” this trip did help me to see why I want politics to be part of my career.

The trip was divided into two parts: the first week our group visited various political and social organizations in DC and Alexandria, and we were able to discuss some very important aspects of the US political system including constitutional rights and engaging young people in the process. I especially enjoyed having an open discussion with students from Georgetown University, which provided a forum for Egyptian and American students to learn a lot from one another.

During the second week, I had the opportunity to intern with Senator Jon Tester (D-MT). I enjoyed the days I spent collecting news and information and producing reports for the Senator, and I was also able to attend a Senate hearing and visit the Library of Congress. I also loved visiting the Capitol dome which I had seen so many times in the news and in movies, but it was just as moving in person– it was a great moment I’ll never forget.

When I look back my experience, and remember the other students I shared it with—all of whom I can easily call best friends now—it all comes back to me with great joy and bit of nostalgia.

Adel Elhemaily participated in Model American Congress in 2014 and is a student at Cairo University.