Iowa experience

The week that the Franklin Pierce students came to Iowa was the first time we were able to get together and truly colloborate on this project. It was also the first time we were able to connect the issues that are important to our states, and discuss the unique process that each state has in choosing the Presidential nominees for each political party. We were able to visit some of the important political sites throughout the state, including many of the candidates' campaign headquarters. Other valuable academic trips included visiting WHO, a radio station based in Des Moines, where we were able to have a panel discussion with members from the television, radio, and print media. Their insight into the Caucus process in Iowa from a reporter's aspect was the most interesting academic experience we had. Visiting different candidates' campaign headquarters and viewing the different operations was a good activity at the ground level of the campaign process. Inside and outside of the classroom, we were able to have in-depth political issue and candidate discussions, which deeply increased my knowledge of the aspects surrounding the '08 election. I came into this program with a rather elementary understanding of candidate's and their stances on the issues, so discussing these matters with my peers was the most beneficial part of this process up to this point. It isn't difficult to become politically aware or involved, it's just that it is intimidating for most people, especially the youth. Hopefully I'll post my New Hampshire experiences soon.