By Fatima Magaña '22

WASHINGTON D.C. – Real-world experiences form part of the University of Mount Union’s mission to prepare students for meaningful work. Computer engineering major Aidan Pastor ’27 traveled to Washington, D.C., to lobby on Capitol Hill for the Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL) weekend.

Pastor '27 (far right) with other Mount Union students in Washington D.C.

“This trip helped me strengthen skills that are important in almost any career, especially interpersonal communication, professionalism, and critical thinking,” said Pastor. “I also gained insight into how laws and policies are created and how I can use them to resolve AI and engineering legal issues.”

Meeting with staffers and aides from the offices of Congressmen Dave Joyce, Senator Bernie Moreno, and Jon Husted allowed Pastor to gain more in-depth knowledge about politicians’ viewpoints on certain issues and to communicate his stance. 

Pastor '27 (second in the front row) with the rest of the Lobbying on Capitol Hill course students

“My favorite part about lobbying on Capitol Hill was exploring through the congressional office buildings to locate certain offices,” said Pastor. “Speaking to staffers in these offices was one of the most thrilling experiences itself.”

Feeling more confident and prepared to enter his career in AI system design thanks to traveling with the “Lobbying on Capitol Hill” course co-taught by Dr. Nicole Johnson and Dr. Aaron Howell, Pastor is grateful he connected with other Mount Union students with similar passions for politics. 

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