I was incredibly nervous my first day. I have some knowledge of the general assembly but I never quite really researched specifics and did not really know what to expect. Rather than doing busy work like copying files, filing papers or running errands, I spent my time surveying and attending different house and senate committee meetings. I feel incredibly fortunate because I was granted freedom to attend the meetings and topics that I am interested in like education, health and justice and public safety.
Regarding my setting, I got the full tour of the legislature building, cleverly named LB, where the many representatives and lobbyists all spend their time working on what needs to be done. The LB is an incredibly gorgeous building with both indoor water fountains and a rooftop garden. Next to it is the LOB, which is where a some of the meetings are held. The LOB is less attractive, but it sure gets the job done. In the two committee meetings I attended, there was a unanimous ‘aye’ after 3 minutes. Mr. McCormick, my main guide describes that it functions and looks like a desk office.
Lunch was good and filing. The actual cafeteria was hidden away underneath the earth. One has to take the stairs go through the parking lot to a secret area underneath to find the cafeteria. I have to say, the fried chicken was incredibly seasoned and I dined with Mr. McCormick’s friends who were extremely kind and welcoming.
In the afternoon, I attended a house committee discussing the Dental Bill of rights which passed after 1 minute. Then I had a little bit of free time on my hands to explore the area above the building. I perused the rooftop garden and got to see the actual House and Senate chambers. I took some photos and then went back to the office just in time to go to see the senate appropriations on education/higher education. Lastly, I finished off with the senate appropriations on justice and public safety and, just like that, my day was over. I am incredibly excited to come back tomorrow!
