Well, today we had our first simulation activity at CSIS. All classmates were put into groups prior to our trip. These groups of 2 or 3 were assigned one country to represent at our pretend OPEC meeting. Frank Verrastro and his assistant Matt conducted this activity and it was so much fun!  I learned a lot about the operations and logic behind the gasoline prices. I think this activity was very beneficial to us all considering the suffering we do as consumers that goes along with the conflict over oil, such as gas prices. I also gained respect for the OPEC members and their voting system. Oh, before our activity we learned a great deal about energy and water which was really a wake up call for most of us. All of us reside in Southeast Missouri, so the reality of the risk of energy and water becoming scarce doesn’t really seem real. But, thanks to Rachel and Jennifer the reality has set in of the growing problem regarding energy and water globally.

We left CSIS and decided to go sightseeing! Oh my gosh, I know I walked at least eight miles! People here do not believe in vehicles.  Everything was truly beautiful! We visited all the monuments and four museums. We were so tired and hungry by the time we returned to the Hotel, I truly could have fallen! But, Dr. Hill convinced us to try a new cuisine with him, so off we go to a vegetarian Indian restaurant. I’m not sure if the food was really delicious or if I was just hungry. I really am enjoying myself!  However, I still need to go lay down, bye for now.

-Steph

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