Reflection 1

1. In DC, we learned, basically, that youth are the only ones who should operate social networking tools and be responsible for civic outreach and mobilization using media ... because, apparently, the state department seems to be deeply lacking in that regard. I learned that even if NPR is funded by tax-payers dollars it is still not a government news program, hmmm... I learned that saying that the government does regulate the majority of news is untrue in our free US of A (of course, right?) ...Based on a conversation I had with Dr. Rob on the NPR visit and the ombudsman's issues... I agree that one should present news with complete transparency with regard to one's point of view.

2. I learned several Armenian words and I am still working on my Azerbaijani. I really learned about how many similarities we all have. I learned about Armenian and Azerbaijani schooling and the subjects different students like and dislike. I learned about the countries and lives of youth living there. I can't wait to visit Yerevan and Baku in March :)... I learned a little about the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan and about the different views and opinions.

3. The jump rope game was especially difficult and even though we failed at it I think we could have made it all through if given another 20 minutes or so. Several of the conversations I have had with different DOTCOMers from all three countries have been difficult not navigate through but, even though we have opposing views on a certain issue, we can stil lwork together and, most importantly, have fun!

4. What has been exciting and rewarding about the DOTCOM program so far?

- LENIN THE RUBBER CHICKEN!!!

- the team-building games

- challenging conversations and topics

- being able to look forward to new and exciting things each day