This week the gang and I had the privilege to sit down and have a meeting with representatives from the United States embassy in Budapest, Hungary. I know when one thinks of embassies metal detectors and endless Visa-related paperwork usually come to mind, but I promise that if one makes it past security they will truly have a wonderful time. It was truly an exciting experience, and everyone present was able to learn how foreign diplomats and their constituents work together to help represent the United States oversees. Through lively discussion a free-flowing dialogue developed between students, professors, and Mr. Jay Trousdale, head of the Political and Economic Affairs branch of the embassy. First, Mr. Trousdale took us through his personal and professional journey, explaining to us how he went from a simple little boy who just wanted to make a difference in the world to a full-fledged American diplomat. His speech was so genuine and so positive that I truly felt that I could be a diplomat myself one day if I worked hard and kept a positive attitude (It also probably wouldn’t hurt me to improve my Hungarian skills as well). Each and every person in the audience was able to ask a question and get a thoughtful answer from Jay, and at the end we got to take an important looking photo in front of some flags!
What I took away most from this experience was the optimism that Mr. Truesdale displayed regarding America and the World as a whole. It seems anytime one turns on the television they are bombarded with facts about how America’s economy and standing in the world is in decline, and the world economy is down the tubes. In contrast, Mr. Truesdale displayed an honest and well-thought-out belief that despite this rough patch America’s best days may truly be ahead of her. Through stories about his experiences making a difference in places as rough as the Ukraine, he explained his belief that positive change is possible even in the most unlikely of conditions. As a twenty year old college student (extremely) close to entering the job-market and the “real-world”, I was happy to hear someone tell me that everything may be ok after all! Perhaps optimism is futile and ignorance is bliss, but I could not help feel better about my future after our embassy trip. One can truly learn a “world” of knowledge (no pun intended) by meeting with their diplomats and representatives; although they still have to make it through the metal detectors first.
Can you guess which one's the foreign diplomat?
Good stuff Parkesymoto I liked your description of Jay's optimism in regard to the current state of the US. He has definitely lived and worked in some pretty crazy places, and I liked how you highlighted them when describing his experiences and world views. I also liked your pun (not).
ReplyDeleteVery well written Alex. I really enjoy your reading your blog especially when you express how much this experience impacted you. I think we all need to improve our Hungarian skills also, but if you stick with it I know you could one day become a diplomat if tried. I agree that Jay gave us hope for a better future, elevating some worry for our future years...lets just hope he is right!
ReplyDeleteOverall, wonderful job!