Week Eight: Out of My League

There are many times that I step into a room and feel exceptionally out ranked. While many of the Senators, Representatives, and other elected officials that I meet are very personable and approachable, it is still intimidating to carry on conversations with them. However, there have been two specific instances where I have felt out of my league.

A few weeks back, I wrote about going to Camp Mabry for a National Guard brief. When I arrived, we were provided breakfast. As I was eating, the Adjunct General of the TX NG walked into the room. Being an ROTC cadet, my first instinct was to call the room to attention, but quickly decided it was not the place or the proper crowd. Throughout the day, I had the chance to talk with Lt. Col.'s, Col.'s, and Generals. It is a very different type of experience to speak conversationally and candidly with such high ranking officials. If I was in my ROTC uniform, I would get looked over, if acknowledged at all. But because I am with a Senator's office, I am given preference and respect. Talk about a reversal of roles…

The same  type of thing happened this last week during Baylor Day at the Capitol. Sen. Birdwell's office hosted the delegation from Baylor, which included Judge Ken Starr (President of Baylor), his wife Alice, Director of Constituent Engagement Tommye Lou Davis, and a number of other notable members of the administration. Again, I felt a bit star struck. I had the opportunity to escort the group to the Senate floor to be recognized, stand in for a photo on the Senate floor, escort them throughout the Capitol to attend different meetings, and join them for a lunch with alumni from the Austin area. Needless to say, it was a memorable day for me.

If you didn't know, Judge Starr is second only to God on Baylor's campus. Many college presidents have celebrity status on their respective campuses, but I think Judge Starr has a special place in the hearts of Baylor students. So having the opportunity to spend time with him last week was very special for me - its not something many Baylor students get the chance to do. And I have to say, he is exceptionally easy to talk to and is truly interested in bettering the lives of the students at Baylor. Sic 'Em Ken Starr!

The opportunities that this internship provides are second to none. I have had the chance to meet some incredible people, and the two examples above are only a taste. I am truly blessed by where I am.

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On a details note: By TX constitutional mandate, we are not allowed to hear bills on the floor until the 60th day of session. That window closes on Friday, so it is about to be full speed ahead for the next three months. I'm sure I will have plenty to talk about in the upcoming posts, so stay tuned.

[N.B. - All the opinions expressed in this blog are mine, and mine alone. I do not represent the opinions of the office of Sen. Birdwell, the Texas Senate, or the State of Texas.]