Portsmouth High Students Go To Washington

Last week, our group of nine seniors and our teacher went to Washington, DC, for Project Close Up. 

We learned about federalism, the role of the military in government policies, and about Congress. We had study visits to the monuments of many of the influential people throughout history, talked to men and women from each branch of the military and participated in a mock Congress. 

We discussed and debated events throughout history as well as the issues of today. Not only that, but we got to discuss our ideas with people from across the country, from places like Tennessee, New Mexico, Ohio, Minnesota and many others. 

With this, we learned about what is important to people across the country and about their opinions and views. We met Congressman David Cicilline, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, and Senator Jack Reed, and learned about their views on current issues. We also received a better understanding of our own political views.

When it was all over, our group of 10 individuals became a family as we bonded over our shared experiences and good times. When it was time to return home, we all wanted to stay longer and learn more, we were not done. 

However, many of us will now be able to return and teach others what we learned.

Personally, this was the best week of my life, and I cannot wait to return to what is undoubtedly the greatest city ever built. Overall, Close Up truly changed my life, made me a better citizen, and gave me experiences that I will carry with me forever.