Welcome to Harvard Model Congress 2012 and the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation! Our committee is responsible for addressing a wide variety of issues affecting our country and the world, from marine management to space research to highways and sports. If you are interested in learning more about the committee’s proceedings and jurisdiction, please check out the website, which has many useful resources on the major issues the committee handles.
As the chair of the Committee on Science, Commerce and Transportation, I hope to engage you in thoughtful and intriguing discussions about the diverse topics on our agenda. I am currently a senior at Harvard studying Organismic and Evolutionary Biology with a minor in Computer Science. In addition to HMC I am involved in research in an embryology lab, teaching through various community service programs, and fulfilling my premed requirements. Before the conference, please feel free to email me with your interests and activities as well!
One topic our committee will discuss is the problem of coast erosion along many areas of the American seaboard. This has been a concern for decades, but is worsening with the threat of rising sea levels and increasing storm strength induced by climate change. Our other topic addresses the widespread problem of cyber attacks. In addition to the potential leak of sensitive information, these breaches of internet security have extensive economic and social ramifications.
Though vastly different, these two topics illustrate the adjustments that legislators must make when faced with a changing world. I hope you are excited to take part in these decisions, which will represent the steps Congress must take in deciding the future of our country. Last year was my first year involved in HMC, and I was amazed at how much I learned about the functions of American government. Whether this is your first Model Congress experience or you’re a veteran delegate, I hope this coming year will bring a variety of great experiences, from committee discussions to interactions with delegates from a multitude of diverse backgrounds.
I hope you enjoy reading the briefings and doing research on the topics presented. Let me know if you have any questions about the conference, and I look forward to seeing you in February!
Best wishes,