Bluefield State Community College March 3, 2016 BSC Student Jelena Jevtic Brings International Perspective to her Frasure-Singleton Legislative Intern Experience Jelena Jevtić brought an interesting, international perspective to her experience as a Frasure-Singleton Legislative Intern during the current West Virginia legislative session. Jevtić, a Bluefield State College student was one of only 51 students selected from West Virginia colleges and universities to take part in the program, which is designed to permit students to observe the state legislative process for one week during the regular session. "I shadowed Delegate Marty Gearheart (27th District), attended House sessions and committee meetings, and gained a real appreciation for the political process," she explained. "I didn't realize how busy a legislator's days are. They often start at 7 a.m. and run well into the evening with receptions following the morning session and committee meetings." "I observed floor sessions, talked to Delegate Gearheart, and watched as the Religious Freedom Restoration bill and the right to carry a concealed weapon without permit bill were debated. I was impressed that each member of the House was always civil and respectful of other legislators, even when they were very involved in debate." Jevtić, who is from Serbia, attended high school in Colorado as an international exchange student. She was recruited by BSC coach Edric Poitier to play volleyball for the Lady Blues. "I love the small college atmosphere at Bluefield State," she explained. "There's a welcoming environment here." Jevtić's love for politics began at an early age. "I've wanted to be involved in politics since I was eight or nine when I first watched the Serbian Parliament sessions on television," she continued. Her ambitions include pursuing a graduate degree in international relations at Georgetown University, followed by a career in politics. "I want to be a diplomat or ambassador," she stated. Although her Frasure-Singleton legislative internship lasted only one week, Jevtić maintains contact with her peers in the program. "I've already networked with other legislative interns, primarily through social media," she explained. "It's wonderful to talk with other students who share the same interests and goals that I have." "I am very grateful to Delegate Gearheart, who taught me so much during the session, and I appreciate the opportunity to participate in the Frasure-Singleton program," she added. SANDRA M. PHOENIX Executive Director HBCU Library Alliance sphoenix@hbculibraries.org<mailto:sphoenix@hbculibraries.org> www.hbculibraries.org<http://www.hbculibraries.org/> 800-999-8558, ext. 4820 404-592-4820 Skype: sandra.phoenix1 Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/hbculibraryalliance1/ 1438 West Peachtree NW Suite 200 Atlanta,GA 30309 Toll Free: 1.800.999.8558 (LYRASIS) Fax: 404.892.7879 www.lyrasis.org<http://www.lyrasis.org/> Honor the ancestors, honor the children.