Herndon Students Visit White House
By Leslie Perales
Observer Staff Writer
A group of Herndon High School students had a rare field trip when they visited the White House on Sept. 24, including a tour of the Oval Office.
Teacher Doug Graney was able to bring a class to speak to a group of President Barack Obama's speechwriters. He arranged the visit through a former student of his, Kyle O'Connor, who was in his class about six years ago and now is a speechwriter for the President.
"I thought it was an experience of a lifetime," said Lester Chavez. "It's not every day you get to see inside the White House." Chavez said his favorite part of the trip was being able to hear the firsthand experiences of the speechwriters. He said it taught him how far he might be able to go by taking Graney's class and putting in the extra effort when it comes to internships.
Gonzalo Pinillos said it was an exciting experience and his favorite part was not seeing the Oval Office, but having the opportunity to see what goes on inside of the White House. He said it was great to hear from the speechwriters and to find out how they feel when the President speaks the words they helped craft. "I think it would be pretty cool to work at the White House," he said.
Christeen Sangha said when she walked into the Oval Office, "I was thinking 'Oh man, I'm stepping where Obama steps.'" Graney said many felt the room was much smaller than it looks in photos, which are usually taken with a wide-angle lens. Sidney Kudeviz said the space where the secretaries' desks and waiting room were was very small.
The day after their field trip Graney and his students discussed their experience and what they remembered most about it. Most of the students were able to ask a question of the speechwriters, including where they find inspiration and what experiences led them to where they are now.
Graney said the speechwriters talked about how important internships were to their career paths. He said the speechwriters told the students that even if they are working in internships where they are doing mundane busywork it is important to always strive to do their job with energy and enthusiasm and stand out. Chavez said it is now easier for him to understand how his in-class experiences will translate into the working world.
Shane O'Flynn said he though the most interesting part of the trip was learning what the speechwriters enjoyed writing about most. "Each individual liked doing different kinds of speeches," he said. Each has a topic they like writing about and all had great input, he said.
"You're never going to be able to do that again," said Ryleigh Swiatony. She said the experience is one they will likely never come across again. Shannon Spencer said, "We're never going to be that close again." The students agreed the best parts of the trip were the discussion with the speechwriters and seeing the Oval Office.