By Gray Wattenbarger
Staff Writer
For many students here at Wesleyan, Fall Break is a time to get away from school and relax, but for some, it is an educational opportunity to visit our nation’s capital. Each year, SGA funds a trip for around 30 students to visit Washington, D.C. and tour many historic landmarks, museums, and buildings.
The Student Government Association holds an annual convocation displaying the unique and exciting opportunities that await students in D.C. Activities that include touring the Capital, seeing the Washington Monument, visiting the Smithsonian, and even dining at restaurants, such as Soussi, make for some great memories to treasure for years to come.
When Wesleyan first arrived in D.C., the first stop was the hotel for some rest. A night out on the town followed, as did visiting many war memorials. As the group was making their way to the Washington Monument, they stopped in front of the White House for a quick photo opportunity. For a brief moment, the voice of a man became audible. After carefully listening, the voice of President Obama became clearer. For the first time, the Wesleyan group heard a speech given by the President himself on the White House lawn.
SGA President Ashley Wilson invited students to speak at the convocation about their experiences while in D.C. Justin Smith explained to Wesleyan students how the movie “Night at the Museum” was a great way to see the museums on the big screen, and he told how his group went to see the movie in 3D during their free time. Sarah Torbett enjoyed the shopping Pentagon City had to offer with a four-story mall.
Perhaps one of the most exciting events that took place was the visit to the Capital. As the tour was coming to an end in the rotunda, Angie Watts and Gray Wattenbarger, two of the most “camera-happy” people on the trip, still insist they saw President Obama at the top of the rotunda looking down at the tourists.
Unknown to Wesleyan beforehand, many GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender) Rights activist groups were in D.C. for the 2009 Equality March. A special trip to Arlington Cemetery was made to see a GLBT group lay the wreath on the tomb of the unknown soldier. A march across Capital Hill protesting for equality took place on the departure day, something many students were disappointed to have missed. The weekend was one that will go down in history for the GLBT community.
The Washington, D.C. trip is a thrilling opportunity to experience some of the greatest historical landmarks in the United States. For an initial cost of $150, SGA covers most meals, hotel, transportation, and tours of many buildings. Wesleyan provides a fantastic opportunity for its students to experience some of the most beautiful and historical monuments, buildings, and museums at a very inexpensive price.
