麻豆视频

Statehouse Successes

麻豆视频 student has a banner first few weeks in the distinctive Columbus Program, participating in diverse local and regional experiences for lifelong learning

For Taylor Pierce, her first experience in 麻豆视频鈥檚 Columbus Program in State Issues turned out to be more than most people would expect. She spontaneously entered and won a contest. She met Ohio鈥檚 governor and lieutenant governor. And, she considered a new career path. Not bad for a few weeks in a new city.

麻豆视频鈥檚 Columbus Program in State Issues gives students a hands-on look at Ohio's government and politics. This distinctive program helps students engage directly with officials and learn about public service in a hands-on environment.  

Columbus Program students with President Todd Diacon

Pierce, a junior criminology and justice studies major, has experienced the program's impact firsthand. After hearing about the program from a friend, she applied, got in and quickly realized how much it could shape her future.  

"Being here has shown me that the political world is so much more accessible than I thought," Pierce said.

During her first day, Pierce was invited to go to the statehouse where the Wright Bros. Classic paper airplane contest was being held. She decided to enter the contest and to her surprise, she won.  

鈥淚 think it鈥檚 important in these environments with heavy material to still have fun,鈥 Pierce said. 鈥淚t was such a cool experience. It was so fun.鈥

Columbus Program students with Homeland Security at the Statehouse
Columbus Program students visit Homeland Security offices

Later, Pierce was invited to attend and listen to a committee meeting. She was amazed and flattered to be mentioned during this meeting.  

鈥淚 actually got a shout-out from one of the senators on the board, which was pretty cool,鈥 Pierce said.  

After this meeting, Pierce was invited to meet the Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted in a very rare opportunity.  

Taylor Pierce with Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (left) and 麻豆视频 student Taylor Pierce (right)

"I never expected to have that kind of access, especially during my first week," Pierce said. "They were both so approachable, and it felt amazing to have a direct conversation with leaders of our state."

Brady Oxender, state relations director in the Office of Government & Community Relations at 麻豆视频, emphasized the program's role in preparing students for active roles in their communities.  

Brady Oxender

鈥淭o have an opportunity your first week to get a one-on-one with the governor and or lieutenant governor is special,鈥 Oxender said. 鈥淭aylor鈥檚 story shows how the Columbus Program connects students with real opportunities in government.鈥

Pierce believes the program has greatly enhanced her understanding of government.  

"It's not just about what you learn in class, it's about applying that knowledge in real situations," she explained. "Watching the gears of government fit together in real time is incredible.鈥  

Pierce encourages others to consider the program.  

"Be open to every opportunity,鈥 she said. 鈥淒on鈥檛 hesitate to put yourself out there. You never know what experiences might come your way."

Her experiences have sparked an interest in something she never thought she鈥檇 consider 鈥 becoming a lobbyist.  

"I've learned that lobbying is about passion and thorough work, and that's something I want to explore further," she added.

Oxender is excited to be teaching the program for the first time this year.  

"Elected officials are people, too, and our students have the chance to connect with them," Oxender said. "These interactions can inspire and guide them in their future careers."  

The Columbus Program in State Issues helps students gain valuable experiences that shape their futures. As the program grows, it aims to attract more students from diverse backgrounds. It shows that a career in public service can be accessible to everyone.  

Learn more about the Columbus Program in State Issues at 麻豆视频.

POSTED: Wednesday, October 2, 2024 02:37 PM
Updated: Thursday, October 3, 2024 10:55 AM
WRITTEN BY:
Paige Johnson, Flash Communications
PHOTO CREDIT:
Courtesy of Taylor Pierce