“Invigorating,” “fascinating” and “inspirational”: the words Seniors Dixon Witt, Alexandra Rose-Perez and Gavin Lawrence used to describe the Workshop Foundation’s Congressional Seminar that they attended this summer in Washington D.C. Alexandra and Gavin attended the seminar after being awarded a scholarship from the National Society of Colonial Dames of America (NCSDA) for their submissions to the Congressional Essay Contest.

“The most surprising thing I experienced while there was getting to be right in the front for major press conferences on the House and Senate lawns,” Alexandra shared. “The most impactful part of the experience was seeing everything come together in the end and having our bill unanimously passed. Seeing our bill go from a blank page to a strong, finished bill was incredibly rewarding.”

“I realized how powerful Capitol Hill truly is and that politics involves public speaking skills and creating connections,” Gavin explained. Visiting the Arlington Cemetery and witnessing the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier impacted Gavin significantly: “It was a somber yet powerful moment of the seminar; it stood as a reminder of all of the people who have sacrificed their lives for our nation.”

Alexandra, Gavin and Dixon all encourage eligible students to consider this opportunity and to submit essays to this year’s Congressional Essay Contest. “Even if you don't have an interest in politics, this workshop is a worthwhile experience, as it gives you a greater appreciation for all that goes on in our nation's capital and helps you develop skills like working in a team,” Gavin shared. For details about how Upper School Teacher Amy Abbott inspired students to enter the essay contest last year, read the Knights Headline here.