2025 Patterson School Trip to Washington, D.C.

By John W. Parks

As part of the Patterson School experience, students participate in an annual Spring Break trip to regional hubs of politics, research, diplomacy, and international commerce. This year, the Patterson School took on the nation’s capital, Washington DC, where the 2024-2025 cohort was exposed to the facilities and professionals that many will likely find themselves working alongside in their futures.

The trip started with a hotel conference regarding the changes that have been made to government since the Trump administration entered office. Washington DC put on a different, yet challenging face for our students to witness. Though the DOGE cuts have affected all levels of professional life, including the Patterson School’s students, speakers at the onset of our trip did their best to make sense of the changes and provide insight into what may be coming soon. With the mood set early, students made their way to the US Capitol building to walk the halls of our country’s great leaders of the historic and modern eras. In the evening, students were welcomed by staff at World Bank and the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). CSIS was especially welcoming by providing a meal and an in-depth conversation on how think-tanks operate, CSIS’ projects, and the future of security for the United States.

The following day did not begin as planned. The continuing DOGE cuts forced the first event to cancel in the morning, allowing students time to browse the museums or monuments while waiting for the next scheduled event, the Stimson Center. Here, students were engaged in conversation with another think-tank’s perspectives on international issues. The Patterson School then made their way to The Atlantic’s offices and met with writers, editors, and staff members while generously given a tour of the facility. The evening concluded with a meet-and-great of Patterson alum that are living and working in Washington DC, a crucial networking event that continues the Patterson fellowship.

Though it was a tumultuous time to visit Washington DC, the Patterson School and its hosts made the best of the situation. The experience was one that this year’s cohort will grow to appreciate more and more. Undoubtedly, this trip will have affected the futures of some of our students. The Patterson School collectively thanks our hosts in Washington DC for their time, hospitality, and advice for the future.