First days of WIP 2010, A DC Introduction

My name is David Gilmartin and I am a Law & Society student at Dublin City University and Dublin native, and a proud member of the Washington Ireland Program Class of 2010.

To begin, it is important to outline the prevailing sense of pride that accompanies being a member of the Washington Ireland Program. To believe that one has made it this far is hard to begin to accept, when I consider the application process and the people I met that did not make it, it is humbling to be part of a select group of individuals that are being given a tremendous opportunity that is afforded to very few.

Washington D.C is regarded as the political hub of the biggest free democracy in the world, the United States of America. The city hosts the main branches of the United States Government, including the US Congress, the President, the Supreme Court and of the course the US Senate, where I will be working on Capitol Hill, in particular, in the Hart Office Building on the Senate side of the Capitol complex.

The city also hosts some of the most important historical landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the White House, US Capitol and the Smithsonian Museum amongst endless others.

The current climate (aside from the sweltering heat) in Washington DC is one of change,excitement and progression, as the Obama administration has finally began to sink its teeth into political and social reform for the citizens of the United States.

Our first week has been a whirlwind exposure to live in DC and what being a member of the Class of 2010 entails. We have been very busy, with events such as a tour of the Library of Congress with their General Counsel, a screening event at Solas Nua, a dinner with the US Board of Directors, tours of the monuments and Newseum, tours of Capitol Hill and a welcome reception with the Northern Irish Bureau where John, Conor, Edith and Claire spoke fantastically well at the National Press Club. As well as other events, we have two public service shifts as a team, one at the JO Wilson Elementary School and with Horton Kids. This is just s sample of the first weeks schedule, not including our Leadership forums and workshops and many highly regarded guest speakers.

It will be a summer of intense experiences, from working amongst the most powerful individuals in the United States, to working alongside some of the most committed and inspiring individuals that WIP have provided for. I look forward to the weeks ahead with great anticipation!

David Gilmartin Bio.