Update: Summer 2009

As the fall semester approaches, I cannot believe how quickly the summer has gone by this year.  Overall, I had a great summer in the nation's capital with a few trips here and there. 

After classes ended, I took a brief trip to New York City to speak at a Georgetown fundraiser.  This was my first speaking engagement of the summer; it went well.  I always enjoy meeting with Georgetown alumni, donors, faculty and administrators.

The following week was commencement.  It was a bit overwhelming watching friends graduate and thinking that in two years I will be doing the same.  Regardless, it was a great ceremony. 

To keep myself busy, I took up a part-time job with the university summer conference department and continued at the office of undergraduate admissions.  I also kept up with political consulting.  Frankly, it pays better, and I enjoy it.

One of the nicer aspects of being in Washington, D.C. over the summer is being able to take in the city.  I visited many sights (here, Embassy Row and the National Cathedral), museums and cultural events.  Also, I now consider myself a foodie since I tried many of the city's diverse restaurants. One of the highlights was spending Independence Day overlooking the Potomac River and the National Mall.

In terms of high-profile events, I attended a reception honoring the new Israeli ambassador, Michael Oren, a former professor and good friend of mine. I also got to spend a day with His Serene Highness Prince Nikolaus of Liechtenstein, his wife Princess Margaretha and their son, Prince Josef during their visit to Georgetown. 

In late July, I took week off for a working vacation.  I say "working" because I was attending the annual Sister Cities International conference and concurrently running for re-election to the Board of Directors (I won with 89% of the vote!).  Overall, I really enjoyed my time in Belfast, Northern Ireland.  I was able to take in the Emerald Isle, her people, culture, cuisine and sights. 

Since my return, I have been quite busy wrapping up some projects and moving into my new townhouse.  I also spoke at the bi-annual convention of the Republican National Hispanic Assembly, which was a good experience.

This fall promises to be another great semester.  I am taking five courses: Chinese Politics and Domestic Priorities with Robert Sutter, Turkey in World Politics with David Cuthell (the original professor was recalled to Ankara to serve as a special adviser to the Turkish Prime Minister, go figure), Religion and Modern Politics of Iran with Shireen Hunter, American Responses to the Arab-Israeli Conflict with Aaron David Miller and Problems in Multilateral Diplomacy with former US Ambassador to the UN, Donald McHenry.  I also recently joined the editorial board of our school newspaper, The Hoya. Overall, Georgetown -- two years down, two years to go -- is turning out to be exactly what I wanted and more.  I will remain involved in the Chapel Choir as well.

Thank you for reading my update.