I woke up this morning at 5:30, just like I have done all week. Expecting a great experience for the day, a potentially life changing moment, or even better - a job opportunity ;). I did not, however, expect anything that unfolded this morning. I knew I was going to meet Bob Schieffer, long time news anchor and reporter for CBS. I knew I may have the opportunity to speak with him, get an autograph, maybe ask a question, or even get a picture with him- I did not know that I'd have the chance to do all THREE!

His speech was absolutely INCREDIBLE! He spoke about a time when Lyndon B. Johnson was campaigning for Senator, and he remembers seeing him come down in a helicopter. It was the first time he had ever seen a helicopter, and LBJ was using a megaphone to announce himself - and it scared 11 yr. old Schieffer to death! He said "I didn't know if it was God, or a Monster, or what it was!"

He moved on to politics for a little while and spoke about the cost of politics, elected officials not knowing each other like they did back in the day (when they'd actually meet after hours TOGETHER), and redistricting - which he believes completely erases the chance for compromise. He said that we really should be watching politics in May when the debt ceiling will be discussed.

He then moved onto life in general, and the idea of following a passion. Here's a few of his quotes:

"All I've ever wanted to be is what I am today."

"You have one trip to planet Earth, and iti s your
life...Whatever it is you decide to be - it's YOUR decision."

"Don't be afraid to stretch. Don't be afraid to reach."

"Pick something you enjoy, get good at it, and the success
will come by itself!"

"I'm a reporter, my first question is always, "Why?"

Then he took questions from the crowd, and introduced his assistant. She was extremely young, and very accomplished for her age. She gave a few great tips, such as:

• Use Alumni
  
• Meet everyone you can at your internships, and stay in contact with them.


• Take what you can, even if it's not exactly what you want.


• Offer yourself, even if it's a long shot.

Overall, I'd have to say I learned more this week than I have all semester! Tomorrow I begin my internship at Stars and Stripes! Wish me luck! <3