Where do I
even begin? This past week with the AAPD Internship Program has been a
whirlwind of new experiences, new people and new knowledge. I have met so many
wonderful people, and can’t wait to see what the rest of the summer has in
store for me. First off, there is the group of 2012 AAPD Interns, and what a
group it is! Each person has a unique story, and getting to share with and
learn from each other this past week has been awesome. Prior to this week I had
little exposure to people with disabilities other than my own, and to be honest
I wasn’t sure how I would feel about all of us being thrown into a room for a
week. Hats off to the folks at AAPD, they really know how to bring diversity
together and show us how it strengthens, not divides. I have loved getting to
learn about adaptive technology and techniques that allow each of us to pursue
our goals with little difficulty.
This week I
also met my mentor, Michael Winter. Michael Winter works at the Department of
Transportation analyzing transportation methods. Mr. Winter travels a lot, and
analyzes transportation systems in other countries. He finds the best methods
from each system and attempts to integrate them into our transportation
systems. Mr. Winter also, I have learned, seemingly knows EVERYONE in
Washington D.C. Mr. Winter is an incredible individual, and I can’t wait to
learn and grow under his care this summer. I think this was a perfect fit, and
I thank the folks at AAPD for being so good at what they do.
I will be
starting my internship with the office of Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner this
week, and I am extremely excited. Congressman Sensenbrenner is a central figure
on Capitol Hill, and is very well respected. Congressman Sensenbrenner is very
involved in judiciary issues, which is exactly what interests me. I can’t wait
to get to work and start learning.
Until next week,
Paul
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