First Days at the AVMA-GRD
« Previous EntriesNavigating DC’s Historical Streets
Monday, June 7th, 2010Someone once told me that being happy is an indication that you are living your passion. Crazy as it may seem, I am energized by debates. I am fascinated by the hearings that bring together experts from all over the world to discuss an issue. I am even inspired by activists who stand in mass [...]
An Information Addict on the Hill
Friday, June 4th, 2010I came to Capitol Hill, barely two weeks removed from my last dose. I felt like most of it had cleared my system and I was ready for a long, relaxing summer. I tried to mask my recovery with a couple of new suits and a professional attitude, but once I got to the Hill, I just couldn’t resist. [...]
D.C. Coincidences
Thursday, May 6th, 2010After another incredible day, I felt the need to post and share how great this externship experience can be for veterinary students.
Yesterday morning, Gina and I went to a fundraiser breakfast along with a number of agricultural focused groups. We met with Representative Schrader of Oregon who is the only veterinarian currently in the House. [...]
Reptiles in the House!
Wednesday, May 5th, 2010My first week here in Washington has been exciting and of course, it has been HOT. It is quite surprising to notice how many people are not sweating walking around, despite wearing full suits. Unfortunately, I am not one of those privileged individuals, so this is a learning experience. I will need to modify my [...]
Not a Democrat. Not a Republican. Just a Veterinarian
Thursday, February 4th, 2010My first few days serving as the AVMA-GRD extern for the month of February coincided with the annual SAVMA Lobby Day. At this two-day event, I, along with 63 other vet students, got a crash course on a variety of subjects such as how bills are created, passed through Congress, and eventually becomes law (or [...]
Be Prepared!
Thursday, January 14th, 2010Leslie: Let’s begin our conversation.
Ann: What’s on the note cards?
Leslie: They’re possible topics of conversation.
Ann: Whales. Parades. Electricity. And the rest are blank…
Leslie: Yeah, well I couldn’t think of anything else.
Parks and Recreation
Season 2, Episode 4: “The Practice Date”
Effective communication is a large portion of what a lobbyist does. Without preparation and a thought out [...]
Finding the Comfort in the Uncomfortable
Monday, January 11th, 2010Hello, this is Kelvin Urday from Missouri, and I will be the Extern guiding you on the goings on and happenings here in the capitol of our country for the next few weeks.
In governmental work you have to comfortable being uncomfortable in order to get the job done. In this blog I will be chronicling [...]
A Washington Whirlwind!
Thursday, November 12th, 2009Forgive my cheezy alliteration but it’s an accurate description of my week so far as an AVMA-GRD extern. Monday and Tuesday are a blur to me now as I spent both days up on Capitol Hill on both the House and Senate sides “tagging along” on visits. It was an excellent way to see firsthand [...]
Take it all in stride…
Tuesday, October 6th, 2009Flying into DC for the first time 2 days ago, I looked down over the monuments as my plane made its approach into Reagan National Airport and I began to feel very overwhelmed. As previously mentioned by the wise externs that have come before me, I realized that vet school had sucked the knowledge of [...]
First two days in Washington
Thursday, September 10th, 2009Today is my second day as an extern at the GRD, and I have already been thoroughly impressed by Washington D.C.! It is amazing to be in the city that is at the center of power not only of our country, but of the world. I feel very honored and humbled to be here with the AVMA [...]
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