Cat Foster
News Reporter

Summer isn’t complete without a few traditional things. Rerun after rerun of favorite TV shows, sleeping in until the late afternoon and staying up until the early morning, a complete lack of homework, and crowded pools. Summer is a key part in a college student’s experience.
Sometimes, however, it’s nice to have something different incorporated into those three months of freedom. After all, variety is the spice of life, and for those looking for a unique summer experience, Mesa State has your answer.
The Colorado Capital Conference, sponsored by Colorado Senator Mark Udall and Mesa State College, will take place in Washington D.C. on June 15-17. It’s a way for students to learn how the federal legislative process works, and gives insight into how anybody can affect policies in a positive or negative way. The conference provides an opportunity to mingle with a diverse group of people, as well as bask in the presence of some of the top powers in our nation’s capitol.
One hundred participants from Colorado will be selected to represent Colorado’s diversity and travel to Washington D.C. for this educational opportunity. Applications can be found at www.mesastate.edu/capitalconference and must be submitted by March 15. Attendees will be announced April 18.
The selected participants will be responsible for airfare and accommodations. But, the offset cost of meals, facility use, and transportation to the Marine Corps Barracks are all included in the $300 registration fee.
The conference will begin with an opening reception. The next day will include briefings with members of the cabinet, U.S. Senate and House of Representatives members as well as a banquet with a keynote speaker. Friday will include more briefings as well as a tour and close with a Marine Corps parade.
Even for this experience, the costs can add up. That’s why Mesa State College has offered scholarships for four students intending to attend the conference. For more information, call Kristi Pollard at 248-1902.
For those interested in gaining first-hand understanding about how the U.S. government works, seeing the nation’s capitol, or just getting out of the house for a few days, the Colorado Capital Conference is an experience worth looking into. More information, along with the application, can be found at www.mesastate.edu/capitalconference
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cmfoster@mesastate.edu