Rakiya Washington

Outside of being in the classroom for the two scheduled days of the week, we have organized and participated in various outings around the city. One of the most memorable experiences for me was when we visited the Tidal Basin to see the cherry blossoms. Although we did not see as many cherry blossoms as we expected due to the weather changes, we did not cease to explore farther in the area. We walked to various other nearby memorials and monuments, such as the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial. I was extremely excited although to see the memorials, since I had never seen them before; but also because it was disappointing to see how many lives were lost during such violent events. Visiting these memorials, not only expanded my knowledge of wars in general, but it allowed me to understand how important the lives of others are and to be grateful for everything and everyone you have because they could be taken from you at anytime. I am glad I am in a program that allows me to explore and learn about such things. I could not have been happier with the experience.