EFTA01221352.pdf

RECEIVED SEP t 5 2liii August 28, 2011 Mrs. Cecile deJongh Manager Financial Trust Company, Inc. 6100 Red Hook Quarter, 6-3 St. Thomas, VI 00802 Dear Mrs. deJongh, I would first like to start with a simple, Thank You. You have provided me with a wonderful opportunity. The opportunity to spend the summer in one of the most powerful cities in the world; to learn and share with some of the most intelligent and politically active young adults in our country; and to listen to some of the most influential people in the nation. Being from the small island of St. John, I am not often provided with chances such as this. And, having spent the previous summer at the JSA program at Stanford University in California, I must say I really enjoy this program. For me, attending this program meant a rigorous academic enrichment program that would not only aid in the college applications process but also in providing me with great opportunity in a field that I have much passion for. This summer, I attended the Georgetown session II program in Washington D.C. and took Speech and Political Communication. My Professor William Huddy, instructed my class in Communication Theories, and strengthened my speaking skills. He focused on the art of extemporaneous speaking, the ability to speak and think at the same time without reading a script. The course syllabus required delivering numerous speeches on varying subjects and a term paper on an issue facing our country. The speeches and writing were supplemented with numerous trips to Smithsonian museums, prominent news sources and government buildings. The program also included numerous programs where the students were able to listen to the political insight of people holding high ranks in our government and ask questions. In the evenings we would partake in congressional style debate, teaching us our legislative process and allowing us to share EFTA01221352 our opinions on very important issues facing the society; such as nuclear energy and internet regulation. The program also created a great simulation of the college experience. I was faced with the challenge of getting my work done, while being pummeled with more work, all while trying to make new friends and take full advantage of D.C.'s great atmosphere. We were given lots of freedom to explore as well as the trust to be responsible young adults. We were treated with respect and held with high regards as some of the brightest in the nation. As you would expect, I am very interested in government and public service. Politics is an area of great interest in my life. This program allowed me to share my ideals in a learning environment where everyone is open minded to varying opinions and viewpoints on issues troubling our country and world today. With this experience I can better articulate my thoughts and form strong opinions while still respecting varying views. Being a rising senior, I am looking forward to attending college and ultimately planning my career. Working in D.C. would mean a great deal to me and my visits to this school and this city only intensified this goal. I was blessed with great classmates, wonderful staff and friendships that enhanced my character. Without your generosity, this program would not have been possible for me to attend. As a result of this program my voice can be heard, my ideas valued and my knowledge broadened. Sincerely, EFTA01221353