Small World

This world really is smaller than we think! Since we arrived, I've run into three friends that I had no idea were coming - one of my friends from Minnesota (who also worked on Capitol Hill like me), one of the guys from Missouri (who I co-presented with in DC last month at the Honors Conference), and one of my classmates from my study abroad in Greece! It's so crazy to run into them, but I'm loving it!

We started yesterday, and about 10 minutes before my very first session, Dr. Jones decided to point out what a big deal it is to be in the General Assembly Plenary. As I am alone in there, of course, I felt no pressure! (Thanks, Dr. Jones...) I took the first night in observer status and delved in more today. This conference is turning out to be quite interesting. We've been going in and out of caucusing all day today, drafting resolutions, becoming signatories, debating the merits of fine points in proposals, asking questions, the list goes on and on. The hardest part is not signing on to resolutions that personally I would support, but as a representative of Niger, not so much.

We also got to hear Paul Rusesabagina, the hero of Hotel Rwanda talk today. Such an interesting and courageous man, and so courteous. He signed my book, which was quite exciting!

Anyway, sessions start up in a few minutes, so back to another three hours of conferencing. Be back with some pictures later! Cheers from chilly Chicago!