Chesapeake students visit the General Assembly
Getting a closer look at government in action, students from Tidewater Community College’s Chesapeake Campus traveled to Richmond to visit with state legislators and tour the Capitol.
“I’ve lived in Virginia all of my life, but this is my first time here. It was interesting to see history and be part of the process, even for a day,” said Lynnail Choudhry, who is studying human services management.
The first stop for students was the Library of Virginia, where they listened to Jeffrey Kraus, assistant vice chancellor for public relations for the Virginia Community College System. A tour of the library gallery followed, with a mini-history lesson provided by Adrienne Robertson, a library staffer.
From there, students set off to the General Assembly to meet with Sen. Harry B. Blevins (R-Chesapeake), and Del. John A. Cosgrove (R-Chesapeake). “We learned we were in good company,” noted Tim Harris, SGA president for the Chesapeake Campus. “Senator Blevins shared that his grandson got his start at TCC. Just talking with him was inspiring.”
The Capitol tour included interior spaces and outdoor monuments. Jim Hines of TCC’s Office of Information Systems served as tour guide and enlightened the group with historical tidbits at every stop.
“Virginia has a rich history, and the tour was objectively presented,” said Derek Smith, who is studying social science with plans to attend law school. “I especially enjoyed seeing the art.”
Kellie Bottiglieri, a science major with plans to enter dental hygiene school added, “There is so much history here, and to see it firsthand was an amazing opportunity.”