Oluwaseun attends President Obama's Inauguration

I was up and chirpy by 3am in the morning on Saturday 19th January, nothing else but the exciting prospect of attending the Inauguration and Inaugural Conference could have spurred excitement at such hours of the day. Nonetheless, I darted off to Bristol Airport to be transported first to Amsterdam before finally arriving at Washington Dulles airport. The Conference is held in Washington, D.C. to celebrate and experience the Inauguration of the President and Vice President of the United States. It consists of a variety of interactive learning events and activities for attending Inaugural Scholars, with this once‐in‐a‐lifetime highlight: commemorating the Oath of Office and Inaugural Address of the President of the United States on the National Mall. I could not wait to begin the conference activities, which included explorations of the presidential campaigns, the electoral process, and the presidency. I would be hearing directly from prominent people in politics, elected officials in government, political experts and analysts. The keynote speakers ranged from former Florida Governor Jeb Bush to Rev. Jesse and J Matalin.

On arrival at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Centre, I was whisked away to meet Alex Schriver and Tori Taylor, who were respectively Democrat and Republican National political leaders. They gave a beneficial insight into election campaigns and strategies as well as their effects on the Democratic process. There after I enjoyed a Political Satire, specially performed by the notable Capitol Steps.

The next day I attended a speech titled “finding your passion” by the Condoleezza Rice, the first African American woman to hold the post of Secretary of State. The highlight of the occasion for me was meeting Dr Condelezza Rice, who spoke on institutionalizing democracy through democracy and the actualization of dreams. In her words: “The impossible is often inevitable,” she was referring to her journey from growing up in a segregated society to become Secretary of State. Later on in the evening, I was involved in a panel discussion between Nick Clooney (father of actor George Clooney) and Bob Woodward. The activity showcases the events during one of the most tumultuous times in American political history. Woodward was the one who broke the Watergate story and veteran journalist, so hearing his side of the events was exciting.

The following day was the essence of the trip; special activities were planned around the public swearing‐in ceremony of the President and Vice President as well as the inaugural parade. So, on the morning of the inauguration, I was up at the crack of dawn to ensure I was at Capitol before it was sealed of by the security services. On Arrival I was buzzing despite the unfriendly hours of the morning. Along with fellow scholars I had exclusive access to the Smithsonian National Air and space museum prior to the Oath of Office and the Inaugural address by President Obama. The inauguration was spectacular; the level of patriotism was immense. My admiration for President Obama and the American people was heightened following the event. I had heard no other politician connect with his or her people on such a personal level, every race, every gender and all ages appeared to moved, it was uplifting. To top it all, I was only several rows from the President of the United States, Beyonce and Kelly Clarkson! It was amazing! The day could not get any better, well so I thought! Until I attended the Inauguration Evening Concert with live performances from various artists and a showcase of talent amongst other scholars in the karaoke lounge. The concert took place with the beautiful view of the Potomac River in the background. It was incredible.

The next day we inaugural scholars met to discuss issues important to our countries and us. We all had to create an action plan to usher change and fulfill our roles as future global leaders. This notion was reinforced by the very charismatic General Wesley Clark, a former NATO Supreme Allied Commander in address to us titled: “Your voice, Your Venue”

The trip culminated with an Inaugural Ball at the Newseum, which was a black tie and gown event .The museum according to the London Times is one of the World’s coolest Museums. It was a truly enjoyable night with dueling DJ’s, delicious food, and beautiful and inspirational people all around. The event was not just exciting and fun, it was a rewarding one and learning curved. In five days I met some of the must successful and influential people in world politics. I feel so blessed and inspired. I can say, I saw Capitol, I saw history and I was a part of it, for that I am truly grateful.

Oluwaseun (Y13)