Teens get a glimpse
of life at the Capitol
By sandi carpello
Staff Writer
FAIR HAVEN — At the U.S. Department of the Interior in Washington, D.C., last week, Adam Lewin advocated for harsher punishments for juveniles who commit crimes.
Later that day, Bridget Dowd lobbied for global democracy before the U.S. Supreme Court.
Lewin and Dowd are not actual political figures. They’re just a couple of 16-year-olds exploring what it’s like to be in charge.
For the past two weeks, Lewin and Dowd, both of Fair Haven, participated in the Congressional Youth Leadership Council (CYLC) in Washington, D.C.
While studying the three branches of government, the two juniors at Rumson–Fair Haven Regional High School hobnobbed with key political figures, attended panel discussions with Washington journalists, and debated, amended, and voted on proposed mock legislation.
"I learned a lot," Lewin said. "I really got a general feel for how the government works."
"We learned how the Supreme Court works, how a bill becomes a law, and we actually did it," Dowd added.
For nearly 20 years, CYLC, a nonprofit organization, has chosen 400 scholars from around the country to spend the summer at the nation’s capital. The invitation-only program admits students who have demonstrated leadership potential and scholastic merit.
"While some students are learning about leadership in books, [Lewin and Dowd] learned directly from individuals in leadership, said Michael Lasday, executive director of CYLC. "Students interact with members of Congress, Washington’s press corps, and key appointees to continue formulating their ideals and leadership skills. We look at each of these students as colleagues, in whose hands the future of our country lies," he said.
For Dowd, the best part was meeting people from all over the country.
For Lewin, the highlight was meeting Congressman Rush Holt (D-12th District).
"He was really cool. He was a really smart guy. [We] met him, met his interns, went to Capitol Hill with him, and talked to him about some of the issues he was debating at the time. We also met Lautenberg’s staff and Jack Valenti, who is the head of the Motion Picture Association," he said.
As far as a future in politics is concerned, both Dowd and Lewin said they were undecided.
"I am more of a math and science person, but I definitely would not rule out politics," Lewin said.
"I’m keeping my options open," added Dowd.