Students from IVC’s Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) had an unforgettable experience on a recent trip to Washington DC. During the trip, the students had the opportunity to meet with congressional representatives from Senator Feinstein and Senator Padilla's offices, as well as congressional representatives from the offices of Katie Porter, Mike Levin, and Young Kim. The group advocated for more resources that students need while gaining valuable insights into the workings of our government.
The trip included visits to some of the most iconic locations in the country, including the Smithsonian Museums, National Harbor, Capitol Hill, Congressional visits, Johns Hopkins University, Georgetown University, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
The purpose of this trip was to advocate for more resources that students need while also exploring different college campuses and life in the East Coast.
Director of EOPS Rosa Prado says, "Experiences like these are invaluable for the personal and academic growth of students. This is a unique opportunity for students to represent the college in a positive manner, and help them develop critical thinking skills, understand the importance of advocacy and civic engagement, and foster a sense of community within IVC."
“This was one of the most engaging things I’ve ever done,” says EOPS student Eduardo Olvera Hernandez. “Considering my passion for politics, I was able to interact with staff for congressmen to explain things I felt were important for American policy. It reinforced my passion for politics, and I want to continue to pursue any classes I can in political science.”
With the success of this trip, the EOPS office looks forward to providing more opportunities for students to take part in experiences such as this in the future.