WASHINGTON, D.C. -- It is one thing to study history in a classroom, but it is another to witness it first-hand.
Twelve students and some faculty members at Calvin University will get that opportunity Monday. They will be in Washington, D.C. to witness the inauguration of former president Donald Trump as the 47th president. Trump, who also was the United States' 45th president, will become the only person other than Grover Cleveland to serve two non-consecutive terms as president.
Mark Hessler is director for Calvin's intern-based Henry Semester Program. He, some other faculty members and some students in Politics & Policy, Pre-Law, Journalism & Strategic Communication, and Social Work will be attending the noon-time ceremony.
"We consider this as a real experience. Students will see the political process in action. And it really deepens their understanding of government. And it obviously enhances their ability to critically analyze political events," Hessler told WOOD Radio.
They obtained tickets for the through the Michigan Congressional Delegation.
"We also have a few - obviously - international students on campus. And it gives them insight into ... an inauguration, within an American democracy and the impact on global politics, in particular," Hessler said.
The Henry Semester Program at Calvin University is structured around the internship students working four days a week in public and nonprofit organizations, and also attending classes on Friday. That helps enrich their learning experience.
"Witnessing a presidential inauguration provides students with that opportunity to experience a historical event that exemplifies the peaceful transfer of power within our democratic system of government," Hessler said.
Here are more details provided by Calvin University:
About the Henry Semester Program
- Internship-Based Learning: The program is structured around internships, with students working four days a week in public or nonprofit organizations and attending classes on Fridays to enrich their learning experience.
- Diverse Placement Opportunities: Students are interning in a variety of organizations, including five placements on Capitol Hill, offering them a front-row seat to the legislative process.
- Practical Training and Professional Growth: By supplementing their liberal arts education with real-world experience, students gain valuable skills and professional connections that will shape their future careers.
- Exclusive Opportunities: The Henry Semester gives students access to internships and professional environments that are not available in Grand Rapids, allowing them to engage with organizations operating at the heart of national and international decision-making.
- Immersive Experience: Living and working in Washington, D.C., enables students to engage with a political capital and cultural hub, encouraging them to explore the intersection of politics, history, and culture.
The Significance of the Presidential Inauguration
- A Unique Educational Experience: Witnessing a presidential inauguration provides students with the opportunity to experience a historic event that exemplifies the peaceful transfer of power within a democratic system of government.
- Global and Local Perspectives: Both U.S. and international students in the program gain insights into the significance of the inauguration for American democracy and its impact on global politics.
- Firsthand Observation of Democracy: Students see political processes in action, which deepens their understanding of governance and enhances their ability to critically analyze political events.
The Broad Scope of Interests
- Multidisciplinary Focus: Students in the program are not limited to U.S. national politics—they are exploring topics in local and international politics, public policy, journalism, law, and social work. This diversity of focus underscores the breadth of opportunities available through the program.
- Analytical Skills and Civil Discourse: Calvin University attracts students from across the political spectrum. The program emphasizes teaching students to approach political questions analytically, navigate political differences thoughtfully, and engage in civil discourse.
Why This Matters
- The Henry Semester program equips students with the tools and experience necessary to become informed, engaged, and impactful global citizens.
- The combination of internships, coursework, and cultural immersion provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of politics and governance.
- The experience of being in Washington, D.C., during a pivotal moment in U.S. history highlights the importance of hands-on learning and the value of witnessing democracy in action.
