Political Party

Student's classroom is Republican National Convention

While many of his Oswego classmates were settling in on campus, senior Tim Farnsworth was getting his first lessons of the academic year at the Republican National Convention in Minnesota.

The Washington Center’s Presidential Seminar draws together students from more than 100 colleges and universities nationwide to both conventions. Farnsworth was the college’s sole participant this year with the financial backing of the Oswego Provost’s Office.

Farnsworth served as former Student Association President Josh Miller’s chief of staff. The political science and global studies double major also served a Student Association senator his junior year.

“Politics is a lot about navigating conflict and there is just a thrill about it,” said Farnsworth, a non-traditional student who hopes to work in civil service after graduation.

The Washington Center trip is an opportunity to really get a behind-the-scenes look at national politics. Farnsworth has participated in leadership workshops in the days leading up to the four-day convention, which begins Monday.

During the convention, Farnsworth has been able to converse with state delegates, national party leaders, members of the media and representatives of interest groups.

“The cool thing about doing it with school is that I can put what I’ve learned into practice,” Farnsworth said. “It moves it well beyond the classroom.

“I’m going to meet so many people over the next two weeks,” he said just before leaving for the Twin Cities Aug. 24.

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(Posted: Aug 29, 2008)