Summer at the Sorensen Institute

The Sorensen High School Leaders Program is a two-week session at the University of Virginia. There were high school students from many different parts of Virginia who came together to learn more about Virginia state politics. We learned from professionals in politics and law, took field trips to Richmond and a Harrisonburg farm, and took classes every day.

My favorite part of the experience was visiting the Harrisonburg dairy farm. It was interesting to learn about how the farm worked and how they were using modern technology for the milking of cows. It also allowed me to see a different part of the state and how their economy worked.

I will never forget how much I learned about myself and others. I learned about the many different perspectives of the world and our state that must be accounted for in politics. It really taught me to have an open mind.

I plan on using my experience to stay involved in politics and as a reminder to always pay attention to what is happening in the world around us. It also taught me to always listen to others’ perspectives.