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USC Aiken Student-Leaders Hit the Nation's Capital

Aiken, SC (10/28/2019) — During their annual fall break, 10 Pacers headed north to Washington for an educational leadership experience that exposed them to highest levels of U.S. Government.

"The purpose of the trip is to learn a little bit more about our governmental structures, meet with the offices of our representatives, and experience the history of our country in our capital," said Ahmed Samaha, vice chancellor for student affairs at the University of South Carolina Aiken.

While they stayed in the heart of DC, the student-leaders from Aiken traversed the city, learning more about all branches of the government, starting first with the legislative branch.

"The leadership exchange to Washington, DC, was one of the most memorable things I have done since I started school at USC Aiken," said Amanda Fisher, a political science major.

"This opportunity has been a great experience full of learning and friendship."

On Capitol Hill, the Pacers met with either elected officials or members of their staffs, specifically Sen. Lindsey Graham, Rep. Joe Wilson, and Rep. Jim Clyburn.

"The Washington D.C. Leadership Exchange trip allowed me to gain valuable knowledge from the [congressional staffers in DC], specifically how they got to where they are now and what they do on a daily basis," said Evan Jenkins, a political science major.

After meeting the South Carolina leaders in DC, the students visited the Library of Congress. During the trip they also toured notable sites in the nation's capital, including signature monuments, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and the Smithsonian Institution's museums and galleries.

"The most impactful part of this trip was the friendships I strengthened and the memories that came with it, Jenkins said.

Student-leaders from USC Aiken who took part in the Washington trip during fall break were:

Mason Spires
Sam Boyd
Ian Martin
Evan Jenkins
Amanda Fisher
Amethyst Marroquin
Cassie Garvin
Chastity Abney
Lularee Altman
Julia Smith

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USC Aiken Student-Leaders Hit the Nation’s Capital

During their annual fall break, 10 Pacers headed North to Washington for an educational leadership experience that exposed them to highest levels of U.S. Government.