With an interest in pursuing law as a career, sophomore Danielle Kakish plans on expanding her knowledge of law and politics this upcoming summer. Kakish hopes to broaden her understanding of international politics, as well as advancing her speaking skills for Mock Trial team. She will use her inclination towards law to better herself through a summer program.

Kakish will attend the Junior Statesmen of America (JSA) program at Georgetown University for the session from July 12th through August 2nd session. While at Georgetown, Kakish expects to participate in various activities, including in Model United Nations (U.N.), while listening to many different government speakers, she will also learn from the Georgetown faculty.

Kakish pursued this summer program because she plans to enter the law field as a career. She commented on her attraction to the field.

“[Law] is something that comes naturally to me. Law is so complex, and [possessing the ability] to understand it and help people is something I want to do,” Kakish said.

Kakish’s mother Raeda Kakish expressed the prestige of the program. She commented on Kakish’s passion for politics.

“This shows dedication beyond what is required to achieve something that she wants,” Raeda said.

Danielle’s father Mousa Kakish noted his pride in Danielle for her acceptance to the program. He commented on her hard work.

“I am very proud of her accomplishments. Danielle worked hard to get into this program, and I am happy that I have the ability to send her to Georgetown for the summer,” Mousa said.

Kakish noted that she will be participating in the International Relations program. The JSA website explains that Kakish can expect to learn about major issues and actors in international relations, as well as analyzing the origins and evolution of the international system, legacy of the Cold War and the role of the state, the nation, international organizations, ethnic groups and other non-state actors. Additionally, JSA notes that the course will expand beyond war and peace to address methods of dealing with terrorism, crime, the global economy and environment and human rights. JSA addresses the average day in this program. Students will engage in debates and presentations on global issues and represent other countries in Model U.N. Students will gain a background and hands-on experience to make informed judgements about global society.

JSA compares the program Danielle will complete to a college-level course equivalent to a one-semester honors social studies course.

Kakish expects to partake in many activities and meet many officials in D.C. in which will enable her growth in diplomatic relations and meet new people. She commented on what she plans to do with the information she learns.

“I plan on using the information I gather from my time at Georgetown in my future career. I plan on intensely studying international relations, as well as political science, eventually going into law and working in politics,” Kakish said.

In addition to expanding her knowledge in politics, Kakish will also be exposed to college-life. JSA elaborates on this aspect of its program. The program prepares students for success in college because they will actually live on the university campus for three weeks. The program intends to introduce students to college environment through their living in dorms, eating at the dining halls, studying in lecture halls and libraries and relaxing with friends in the common areas will enable them with an advantage to most incoming freshmen. Students should consequently spend less time getting oriented and more time directly gaining experience.

Raeda explained that while she is nervous to see her daughter travel alone to D.C. She hopes Kakish will gain essential skills to help with her future career.

Kakish hopes to gain a better understanding of politics through this opportunity, while bettering her communication skills. In addition to this opportunity at Georgetown, Kakish believes her experiences in Mock Trial will benefit her future. She noted her desire to venture into law down the road.