Elaine Marsilio - Spring 2006

I can see the White House off in the distance as I walk from the Metrorail to work in the mornings.

From my apartment, day or night, I can view the top of the breathtaking National Cathedral as it peeks over the lines of nearby homes and businesses.

I am within walking distance of the National Zoo and clusters of embassies housing diplomats and ambassadors.

None of this can be found in Texas, where I am from and where I attend the University of Texas at Arlington.

I hope to observe and document as much as I can while I’m in Washington. I will store the knowledge I receive and build onto an already steady foundation. I am here as a reporter, a student and an American. I hope my time in the District helps me expand as a journalist and as an individual.

After being here for only a few days, I feel so connected to this country. I am intrigued with the inner workings of this place, and I feel my curiosities will accumulate as I see more and more.

With all its monuments, museums and historical roots, the District begs visitors to take a deeper look – beyond the surface – into the plans of politicians, area developments and the people who live here.

It is my plan to illustrate the intricacies and capture the nature of the nation’s capital through my writing for myself and everyone else.

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