By Katherine Yaremko
Four students were chosen to participate in the Democratic and Republican national conventions, where delegates assemble to nominate their party’s presidential candidate.
Senior Leonard Beckerman-Rodau, junior Catherine Legnetti, sophomore Melissa Calderone and freshman Anthony Lucci will partake in the conventions as part of the Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars, a non-profit, educational organization that helps students nationwide experience the mechanics of the political system. The Center also retains a worthy history of academic opportunities, having hosting courses since 1984.
This year’s seminars, according to the Center’s Web site, will be “taught as an academic course composed of a combination of formal instruction, guest lectures, panels, tours, site visits, and fieldwork assignments.”
“This experience is absolutely thrilling,” said Calderone, who expressed gratitude for being selected to participate in the conventions. “I can’t wait to explore Denver and to participate in various fieldwork relating to the convention.” Calderone will attend the Democratic convention in Denver, Colo., along with Legnetti.
The Democratic National Convention occurs from Aug. 25 through Aug. 28; the Republican National Convention is from Sept. 1 through Sept. 4.
Beckerman-Rodau, who will attend the Republican convention in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minn. along with Lucci, also expressed his excitement. “It is a wonderful opportunity to both witness and participate in such a unique event,” Berckerman-Rodau said, “which serves to signal the start of a genuine race for the White House.”
Aside from attending the conventions, the University students will attend an orientation session, where they can meet and mingle among politicians, journalists and authors. Students will also engage in panel discussions, press conferences and briefings, as well as listen to noted individuals within various facets of the political setting, including campaign officials, corporate and media representatives, policy experts and former public and party organizers.
In addition to academic events, the students need to complete several hours of field-work, within a chosen area of interest, in order to participate first hand in the rigors of the political system.
“This Convention will be the first time in 56 years without an incumbent candidate on either ticket and it will also be the latest nominating convention in history, ” said Beckerman-Rodau. “It is the opportunity to witness historic milestones like these that really interests me.”